Bonobo Habitat! 4 Tourist Spots in Kinshasa, the Capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

In Central Africa lies Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Across the Congo River sits Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of the Congo, which can make things a bit confusing. Most of the DRC is covered by tropical rainforest, and there are five parks and reserves registered as UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites. Notably, the endangered great ape known as the bonobo is found only in the DRC, and you can even see them in the capital, Kinshasa.

Here are four carefully selected recommended tourist spots in Kinshasa, a city full of natural attractions.

1. Lola Ya Bonobo

Lush with dense forests, "Lola Ya Bonobo" is a popular tourist attraction where many bonobos are protected, as its name suggests. The rescued bonobos live freely in this facility, allowing visitors to observe them behaving just as they would in the wild. It’s one of the most popular spots in Kinshasa. The park is well-maintained, with tropical and colorful flower beds placed throughout the grounds.

There are also well-known restaurants nearby, so you can enjoy Kinshasa’s local cuisine. Interestingly, Lola Ya Bonobo is the only dedicated bonobo sanctuary in the world, making it truly a paradise for bonobos.

2. Kinshasa Botanical Garden

If you want to easily experience nature within Kinshasa city, the Botanical Garden is highly recommended.

Opened in 1933, this historical nature park spans 7 hectares and is home to about 100 species of trees. Right across the street, there’s also a zoo. It’s perfect for a quick nature trip within the city before heading out to explore Congo’s vast wilderness.

3. Palais de la Nation and Laurent Kabila Statue

The Palais de la Nation sits on a vast site facing the Congo River. It was built in 1956 as the governor’s residence when Congo was a Belgian colony. After gaining independence in 1960, it became a symbolic building for ceremonies and has served as the presidential residence since 2001.

In the southern plaza of the grand palace, there’s a unique gazebo supported by four hands holding a roof. In front of it stands a prominent bronze statue — this is the statue of Laurent Kabila, the third president who ousted the long-time dictator Mobutu Sese Seko after 32 years in power. Laurent Kabila was assassinated in 2001, and his son, Joseph Kabila, succeeded him as president.

4. Zongo Falls

About 40 km southwest of Kinshasa is Zongo Falls. Located in the narrow stream of the Inkisi River, a tributary of the Congo River, the site features two waterfalls separated by a short distance. The powerful roar and muddy spray of the massive water flow offer a breathtaking view, different from the waterfalls you had seen.

There are accommodations nearby where you can spend a night surrounded by Africa’s vast natural beauty.
Note: There is another place called Zongo across from Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic, so be careful not to mix them up.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced four recommended tourist spots in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Around Kinshasa, you can experience African wildlife and natural beauty.

A unique experience awaits — cross the Congo River by boat, and you’re already in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of the Congo. Traveling between two capitals by boat will surely be a memorable part of your trip!

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Bonobo Habitat! 4 Tourist Spots in Kinshasa, the Capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo