As the (DRC) gradually opens up, a number of attractions will become accessible: the mountain gorillas in Djomba and Bukima, the eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega, the live volcanoes of Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira and the chimpanzees and bonobos (dwarf chimpanzees).
The Congo River is one of the world's purest major rivers. The Congo remains relatively unpolluted because there are few industrial centers along its banks. In contrast, the longest river in the world, the Nile River, is seriously polluted by agricultural irrigation, industrial waste and sewage.
The Congo basin's wildlife lives in the Congolese forest and is very different from the wildlife found in Africa's savanna grasslands. In addition to the wildlife found in the forest are the creatures that inhabit the waters of the Congo.
Gorillas in the DRC
Since the peace accord was implemented in 2003, the wildlife authority, although under funded has been implemented and the monitoring teams are finally receiving support.
Today the eastern lowland gorilla inhabits the Kahuzi-Biega National Park and other areas of eastern DRC.
A section of the Virunga mountains park in the DRC has mountain gorillas as well. However, the gorillas in Parc National Des Virunga are under constant threat from poachers.
Many of the DRC mountain gorilla tours are run by tour operators in Rwanda and Uganda with an extension into the DRC.
Travel Warnings
Travel within Central Brazzaville and Pointe Noire is considered relatively secure, however, travel by road outside these areas is not considered safe.
The likelihood of street crime is low in Brazzaville and Pointe Noire, but you are apt to find many police checkpoints. Common sense precautions are advised, do not walk in the streets after dark, or carry large amounts of money or valuables.
Visas
Visas are required by all visitors and are expensive. Visas are not available at entry ports. All travelers are required to register at their home country for travel to the DRC.
Immunizations
Yellow fever vaccinations are required and anti-malaria drugs are recommended as malaria is common in the DRC.
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