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The Atlas Obscura Guide To Democratic Republic of the Congo

8 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Updated November 2, 2022

Unusual Attractions in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Nyiragongo Volcano

Mount Nyiragongo has erupted at least 34 times since 1882 & is home to the world's largest lava lake.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Senkwekwe Mountain Gorilla Center

The world's only facility where orphaned mountain gorillas are cared for.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Virunga National Park

The most biologically diverse protected area in Africa is also the most dangerous.

Ituri, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Okapi Wildlife Reserve

Home to pygmy hunter-gatherers, hundreds of animal and bird species, and the strange okapi, or forest giraffe.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Kahuzi-Biéga National Park

One of the last refuges of the endangered eastern lowland gorilla.

Gbadolite, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Gbadolite

The "Versailles of the Jungle" built by a dictator is now a decaying shadow of its hubristic grandeur.

Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Monument to African Dictator Laurent Kabila

Built by a North Korean team this monument to African dictator Laurent Kabila has a suspiciously Kim Jong Il shaped body.

Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Tour de l'Échangeur

Also known as the Limete Tower, la Tour de l'Échangeur can be seen from almost everywhere in Kinshasa.

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Stories About the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Puzzle Monday: A Divine Script From the Congo

September 12, 2022

Why Congo’s Nyiragongo Volcano Has Scientists on Edge

Fast lava and suspicious earthquakes mean people are still at risk.

by Robin George Andrews

The Art Deco Capital of Central Africa

In Bukavu, beautiful buildings have an ugly colonial history. But locals want to save them.

by Carly Lunden

What Is This Art Gallery Doing on a Congolese Palm-Oil Plantation?

It is sparking debate about art, opportunity, and the legacy of colonialism.

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