Planning a Trip to Democratic Republic of the Congo

Just go for the day from Gisenyi--keep a low profile--don't bring your camera with you. But so long's you don't show off, everyone's friendly and you won't be bothered. Some friends who were taking photos nearly got arrested though, so be careful! I mean it, leave your camera in the hostel in Gisenyi. Make sure to walk everywhere, especially outside of the city the volcanic ruins down by the lake are amazing.

Kinshasa and Brazzaville (capital of Congo-B) are the 2 closest capital cities in the world. To cross between them you'll need a visa - and make sure your visa for the country you're leaving is valid for multiple entries, otherwise you'll have to get a new one to come back, too. To get across, the cheap option is the ferry, but it stands until it's full enough to go, and many of the places have minimal shade, so be prepared for a long wait and wear sunscreen! Alternatively, you can ride across in a speedboat as the only passenger - as of late 2007 this cost about GB£ 120.

If you decide to cross from Kinshasa to Brazza, be aware that: 1) you'll need different currency in Brazza, which uses the CFA Franc (FCFA) valid in various West Central African countries. Kinshasa uses Congolese francs. 2) If you're planning to come back to Kin, you should check your entry visa for DRC - if it doesn't allow multiple entries, you'll have to pay for another one to get back because even though you're only going a couple of miles, and the 2 cities are almost one, you're leaving the country. 3) It's worth paying someone (trustworthy!) to go to the river port with your passport and get your Congo-B visa in advance, as it can be a long wait for one if you try to get it when you arrive at the port.

a lost place in the tropical forest suffering from global economy on minerals.
I wish the best to my "fan club" of lovely children

Goma cheese....$5USD for some of the best Gouda i've ever tasted! Its not just a small slice like you have here in Canada, you get a full wheel of cheese. Also the veggies in Goma are cheap, you can get a plastic shopping bag full for $10! Excellent fruits and Veggies.

Be prepared to be kept waiting for a while at the border post... and find a spot in the shade as soon as you possibly can.

A Safari is a must to experience the best of Africa!!

Kinshasa and Brazzaville (capital of Congo-B) are the 2 closest capital cities in the world. To cross between them you'll need a visa - and make sure your visa for the country you're leaving is valid for multiple entries, otherwise you'll have to get a new one to come back, too. To get across, the cheap option is the ferry, but it stands until it's full enough to go, and many of the places have minimal shade, so be prepared for a long wait and wear sunscreen! Alternatively, you can ride across in a speedboat as the only passenger - as of late 2007 this cost about GB£ 120.