Congo River Canoe Journey

Kisangani · Democratic Republic of the Congo

Extreme14 daysAfrica~£4,500 est.

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Overview

The middle Congo between Kisangani and Mbandaka is paddling at the scale of an inland sea — a river up to 15 km wide, braided around forested islands, carrying whole flotillas of lashed-together pirogues downstream to market. This guided expedition covers a long section by paddle and motorised pirogue, camping on sandbars under skies with zero light pollution and calling at villages that see outsiders a few times a year. Fishermen trade river perch for salt over the gunwale; grey parrots cross the water at dusk in their hundreds. Be clear-eyed about the logistics: this is the DRC, and everything — permits, boat charter, an experienced local fixer, evacuation cover — must be arranged before you fly into Kisangani. June to August is the driest window, with lower water and the best sandbar camping. Budget around £4,500 per person for a fully supported two-week expedition; a satellite communicator and a serious medical kit are non-negotiable.