When to go · Democratic Republic of the Congo
Democratic Republic of the Congo in January
Mixed month. Hot and humid in Kinshasa; Martyrs' Day (4 Jan) and Kabila/Lumumba days (16–17 Jan).
Key facts
- Verdict
- Mixed
- Crowds
- Low
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Prices
- Medium
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
Verdict
Hot and humid in Kinshasa; Martyrs' Day (4 Jan) and Kabila/Lumumba days (16–17 Jan).
Weather in January
- Kinshasa and Kongo Central · Kinshasa, Matadi, Muandahot
Dry, grey and cooler June–September; storms and floods November–December and March–April.
- Congo basin centre · Mbandaka, Kisangani, Salongarainy
Equatorial: rain all year.
- Katanga plateau · Lubumbashi, Kolwezirainy
Long dry season May–October; cold nights in June–July.
- Eastern highlands (under advice) · Goma, Bukavu, Virungafine
Mild at 1,500 m; shown for completeness — all travel advised against.
Festivals and holidays
Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.
New Year's Day
1 Jan
Public holiday.
Martyrs of Independence Day
4 Jan
Public holiday.
Laurent-Désiré Kabila and Patrice Lumumba days
16–17 Jan
Commemorations; offices closed.
Crowds and prices
- Crowds · Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Low
- Prices · Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Medium
What to pack
- Light, breathable clothes, a sun hat and sunscreen
- A rain jacket or umbrella and shoes that dry fast