Democratic Republic of Congo – 133rd Country. To see where I have been so far, check out my map as I count down the final 93 countries on the road to all 193 UN countries. Democratic Republic of Congo is my 133rd country.
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Democratic Republic of Congo is the second largest country in Africa and is overflowing with 80 million people and can be found in Central Africa. King Leopold II of Belgium annexed what was known at that time as the Congo Free State. The local populace was forced into labor to produce rubber with millions dying under horrific conditions. In 1960, Congo won its independence from Belgium. Mobutu Sese Seko ruled the country as a strongman from 1965 – 1997 while being a player in the Cold War. DRC is extremely rich in resources but has been plagued by poverty, disease, civil war, and violence.
I flew to Kamebe, which is in the southwest corner of Rwanda and crossed overland into the DRC. Over the border is the Congolese town of Bukavu, a hectic city of nearly one million. Bukavu is overrun with NGOs and white Toyota Land Cruisers. I bedded down here for two nights since this was my launching pad to trek gorillas in the Kahuzi-Biega National Park. It is a good 90 minute drive over bad roads to get here, but well worth the journey.
Democratic Republic of Congo – 133rd Country
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[…] trip there, got the visa for $100 US, saw the gorillas for $400 US and also got in and out of the Democratic Republic of Congo easily through the Cyangugu to Bukavu border. So I then contacted the national park […]
[…] A series of immigration buildings trailed the side of the street. I found the office that issued visas and placed myself in front of an official at his desk. I held my breath expecting the worse; bribes and corruption. But my negative expectations were hastily wiped away. I presented a letter from the Kahuzi-Biega National Park, which served as my affirmation to receive a visa on arrival. After several minutes and filling out one form, I was the proud owner of a Democratic Republic of Congo visa for a cool $100. I was in country number 133. […]
I appreciate your info. Looks like you’re a country hopper. Get the stamp. In and out, throughout most of your African trips. How pathetic! Just counting down the country and tell the world you did it rather than really enjoy the cultures. I crossed into Vic fall park on the Zimbabwe side. I’d not say I have visited Zim. You would. Reality check dude. Great info to share with the community, I got no respect for guys like you. The country hoppers.
Hey Bob…great to hear from you, and always great to get feedback from someone visiting my site.
I always love to hear from fellow travelers. Are you also chasing 193? What is the appropriate amount of time that you spend in each country?
Would love to hear back! Thanks.
Bob you a low life asshole – respect how people travel, even if its not the same as your own travels.
Hi John: Well, it takes all types in this world, and Bob is entitled to his own opinion. I was just a bit disappointed he did not respond to my question.