Crossing DRC - from Goma to Bangui - Is it possible?

[2aroundtheworld]

okay, perhaps this is unthinkable and suicidal....but has anyone crossed over in DRC lately from Uganda/Rwanda and reached Congo? We will be around Rwanda in August and are looking for a passage to the West Coast. I am looking at various options...and doing some research right now.

Thanks for any input.

Christian
www.2aroundtheworld.com

[JeanVisser]

You will have problems getting permits to cross some of the mining concessions and a few rivers will hold you up. The only crossing I know of happenend last year from Lumbombashi to Kinshasa but have a look at this first before you consider:

Radio Baobab » Bandundu Province

[2aroundtheworld]

Originally Posted by JeanVisser

You will have problems getting permits to cross some of the mining concessions and a few rivers will hold you up. The only crossing I know of happenend last year from Lumbombashi to Kinshasa but have a look at this first before you consider:

Radio Baobab » Bandundu Province

Jean

thanks for the links and info - I only see pictures however, I will revisit later.

Please post more if you find anything. we would really like to reach Bangui.

[Travelbug]

Hi Jean,

I entered Goma/DRC from Gisenyi/Rwanda about 2 months ago, but didn't venture further inland. I paid some "extra money" for the visa on arrival (not sure if this would be valid in the whole country). No serious problems around Goma these days.

Recent rebel activity has been reported up north at the Sudanese border (LRA) and near Bukavu (FLN, and another group I don't remember)

As far as I understand (and as written in the previous post), you could head south via Mbuji-Maji. The roads are probably ok with a good 4x4, patience and experience. I wouldn't worry about the permits, as everything is just a question of money in that country.

I assume that the northern route via Kisangani has not been travelled lately, but I am sure it could be done, if you are prepared to cut trees, build bridges, etc.

How about crossing to the west coast on a southerly route through Zambia and Angola, via Saurimo? The only problem is getting the Angolan visa.

Good luck!

[2aroundtheworld]

Originally Posted by Travelbug

How about crossing to the west coast on a southerly route through Zambia and Angola, via Saurimo? The only problem is getting the Angolan visa.

Good luck!

yes that could be another option but I don't know if I can get an Angolean visa in Zambia? I posted another thread on this.

[JeanVisser]

You get the elusive 30 day Angola tourist visa in Pretoria, South Africa, without any real problems.