Is Traveling to the Democratic Republic of the Congo as a Solo Female Traveler Safe?  

As someone who craves adventures off the beaten path and wants to visit every country in the world, it was a no-brainer that I was interested in visiting the Democratic Republic of the Congo since I was already traveling in Rwanda. 

When most people think of traveling to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), safety concerns often come to mind. The country has long carried a reputation for being dangerous, especially for tourists and female travelers. I won’t sugarcoat it—this reputation is rooted in a history of political instability and conflict. However, my personal experience as a solo female traveler in the DRC painted a very different picture.  

There are very few tour operators that organize trips to the DRC, but I ended up finding a reliable company called Native Africa Tours. With the help of Native Africa Tours, I had an unforgettable and safe adventure. From the moment I crossed the land border from Rwanda to the DRC, everything was well-organized, and I felt supported. 

This blog post will highlight my journey, the incredible activities I enjoyed, and why visiting the DRC can be a positive experience for solo female travelers seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path African adventure.  

Why Travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo?  

The DRC is home to some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife experiences. While destinations like Uganda and Rwanda often overshadow the Congo, the country offers something even more special—authenticity. It’s less crowded, more affordable, and feels like you’re truly off the beaten path.  

Yes, the DRC has challenges, but it can be a rewarding destination with the right planning and support. Working with a reputable tour operator like Native Africa Tours made all the difference. They specialize in arranging seamless trips for travelers, ensuring safety, and providing knowledgeable guides who know the region well.  

My Journey Crossing the Border from Rwanda to the Democratic Republic of the Congo as a Solo Female Traveler 

Crossing the land border from Rwanda into the DRC was surprisingly smooth. Native Africa Tours arranged everything for me, from the necessary paperwork to a guide who met me at the border. This attention to detail immediately put me at ease.  

As someone who has been traveling the world for years and seeks adventures off the beaten path, I was more excited about this destination than nervous. Crossing the border to the DRC is definitely considered risky due to riots. However, my experience went smoothly. 

Activities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo that you should add to your Travel Bucket List

Gorilla Trekking: An Unforgettable Experience  

One of the highlights of my trip was the gorilla trekking in the Congo. While many travelers flock to Rwanda or Uganda for this activity, the DRC offers a more intimate and affordable experience.  

1. Fewer Crowds: Unlike Rwanda or Uganda, the gorilla trekking experience in the DRC isn’t overcrowded. It felt personal, and I had the chance to observe these magnificent creatures without being surrounded by dozens of other tourists.  

2. Cost: Gorilla trekking in the DRC is about a quarter of the cost of similar experiences in neighboring countries. This makes it an excellent choice for travelers who aren’t looking to break the bank but still want a world-class experience.  

The trek itself was challenging but rewarding. Hiking through the lush rainforest and seeing gorillas in their natural habitat was a moment I’ll never forget. My guide from Native Africa Tours ensured the trek was safe and enjoyable, sharing fascinating facts about the gorillas along the way.  

Bukavu City Tour  

After the exhilarating gorilla trek, I spent time exploring Bukavu, a charming yet bustling city on the shores of Lake Kivu. Bukavu is often overlooked by travelers, but it’s full of vibrant energy and culture.  

Highlights of my Bukavu city tour included:  

1. Local Markets: Walking through the bustling markets was a sensory experience. From fresh produce to handmade crafts, it was a glimpse into daily life in the DRC. The street corn was delicious! 

2. Colonial Architecture: The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been colonized by France. Bukavu has remnants of its colonial past, with beautiful old buildings that tell the story of the city’s history. 

3. Lakeside Views: Lake Kivu provides a serene backdrop to the city. My hotel just happened to have the best views of the lake surrounding Bukavu. 

Is the DRC Safe for Solo Female Travelers?  

The big question on many people’s minds: Is the Congo safe to visit as a female traveler?  While the DRC has unsafe areas due to ongoing conflicts, tourist regions like Bukavu and the gorilla trekking areas are safer than other parts. I would suggest anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path African adventure add the Democratic Republic of the Congo to your Rwanda travel itinerary because you can easily cross the border from Rwanda by foot. 

1. Local Expertise:** Native Africa Tours assigned me a guide who knew the area inside and out. This made a huge difference in navigating the country confidently.  

2. Pre-Arranged Itinerary: Everything was planned in advance, from transportation to accommodations. This eliminated any stress about logistics.  

3. Friendly Locals: I found the people in the DRC to be incredibly welcoming. Despite the country’s challenges, there’s a warmth and hospitality that shines through. The DRC gets very little tourism, so expect locals to want to come up to you and talk!

Of course, basic precautions are necessary when traveling anywhere as a solo female traveler. Staying alert, dressing modestly, and following your guide’s advice are all key.  

Why Choose Native Africa Tours to Organize Your Democratic Republic of the Congo Trip?   

Planning a trip to the DRC can be hard, especially for first-time visitors, and the country lacks connection when it comes to getting the proper visas and planning the overall trip. Working with a trusted tour operator like Native Africa Tours is essential. Here’s what stood out about them:  

1. Attention to Detail and Planning: From organizing the visa to arranging a plan for the border crossing to creating a daily itinerary, every detail was handled seamlessly.  

2. Experienced Guides: My guide was knowledgeable and made me feel safe at every step of the journey.  

3. Flexibility: Native Africa Tours tailored the trip to my interests, ensuring I got the most out of my time in the DRC. 

4. Commitment to Safety: They prioritize traveler safety, maintaining strong local connections, and choosing reliable hotels for tourists.   

Traveling to the Democratic Republic of the Congo as a solo female traveler was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. While the country’s reputation might scare off some visitors, I found it to be a place of incredible beauty, culture, and adventure.  

Thanks to the expert assistance and planning of Native Africa Tours, my trip was smooth, safe, and unforgettable. From the once-in-a-lifetime experience of gorilla trekking to the vibrant streets of Bukavu, the DRC exceeded all my expectations. 

If you’re considering visiting the Congo but feel unsure, I encourage you to take the leap. With the right preparation and a trusted tour operator, the DRC can be an adventure of a lifetime —even for solo female travelers.  

Clik here to book your trip to the DRC!