Visit to Congo, the country of the deep rainforests, great rivers and the rich heritage and culture can be a memory of a lifetime. Although most people believe that a trip to Congo needs a huge amount of money, the reality is that with the right planning and inside information, one can have fun in the country without paying exorbitantly. Whether it is a wildlife safari adventure or a bustling city life, Congo has something to offer any budget minded tourist as well as a luxurious tourist.
The Congo travel visa procedure is also something you need to know before you come to Congo. This will save you time and prevent needless stress once at the airport due to the orderliness of your documents. The majority of the travelers will be required to get a visa beforehand, and by knowing the requirements, it will be easier to prepare in advance and enjoy the trip itself.
Book in the Off-Season.
It is important to time your visit to save on money. The dry months are the high season in Congo and this is when there is more accommodation cost and tour prices. Shoulder season is not only better way of experiencing the country with fewer people but also a way of enjoying discount on hotels, tours and transport. Keep track of the weather in a particular region and make arrangements to prevent massive rainfall that could limit some activities.
Select Affordable Accommodation.
Congo has many different lodging facilities including luxury lodges and guesthouses that are affordable. Locally-managed guesthouses, Airbnb rentals, and hostels can offer an inexpensive alternative to comfort. Moreover, it may be possible to save a lot of money by staying in small towns, as opposed to urban centers, close to major attractions. The advance booking will be helpful in getting the best offers as well as availability particularly in tourist-receiving places like Kinshasa and national parks.
Take the Public Transport.
Transportation expenses may be rapidly piled up in case of using only private cabs or sightseeing. There is also public transportation, which is cheaper to use compared to the automobiles, like buses and shared minibuses. Although the experience is probably simpler than the personal ones, you can also get into contact with locals and learn more about the daily life in Congo. In longer routes, you can use regional buses or other shared rides instead of domestic flights which can cost quite a bit.
Travel in National Parks on a Low-Cost.
Congo boasts of some of the most scenic national parks in Africa such as Virunga and Salonga. Although guided safaries and tours may cost a lot, one can explore these natural wonders inexpensively. Choose group over personal tours or self guided hikes in places where permits are taken at a reduced fee. Looking up the cost of entry to the park and ensuring that you plan beforehand will allow you to enjoy as much as possible and to not blow your budget.
Eat Like a Local
One of the best things to do in Congo is to savor its food, and yet, it may go very expensive, eating in expensive restaurants. Authentic local cuisine is available at a less than a tenth of the cost in street food and local restaurants. Delicious dishes like moambe chicken, saka-saka and fufu are affordable as well as tasty. Another great way of saving money and at the same time indulging into Congolese culture is by visiting the local markets to get fresh fruits and snacks.
Seize the Free Activities.
Most of the most memorable experiences in Congo are very cheap or even free. There is no need to spend a lot of money in order to explore the local markets, walk along Congo River, and see cultural sites. You can also explore the local areas by visiting local fetes, walking through older areas or attending various traditional religious events without impacting on your pocket.
Travel Insurance and Safety
Although this might appear to be an unnecessary cost, travel insurance is key to low-end travellers. Sudden medical emergencies, lost luggage, or change of travel plans are devastating in terms of money. By settling on an insurance plan that will cover all the necessary things, then you are sure that you are not going to be derailed by some unexpected expenses.
Strategic Itinerary Planning.
In Congo, one of the most important things to save money is planning a deliberate itinerary. Focus on a few areas as opposed to the whole country because long distance may be very costly and time wasting. You will be able to travel deeper by visiting fewer destinations, save on the cost of travels, and have a less stressful experience.
Currency and Payment Tips
Paying with local currency and payment options will avoid extraneous costs. In large cities, the cards are used in certain places, but in small towns and markets one will probably need cash. Spending money in good places and not spending a lot of money on the ATM machine will keep your budget within reach. Moreover, it is also expected and politely negotiating prices in markets and services intended to be delivered locally.
Network with Travellers.
Mingling with fellow travelers is a way to get insider information and to save money. Group trips, commuting, or even joint booking sometimes lead to reduced costs and the possibility of finding a new friend. Social media groups, online forums, and hostel networks are a great source of locating like-minded traveler and low-cost activities.
The cost of traveling in Congo does not necessarily have to be so high. A good mix of planning, knowledge of what is available locally and the willingness to go off the often traveled tourist routes will result in a wonderful and invaluable experience with minimal expense. Enhanced excitement: You can immerse yourself in the colorful world of urban culture and go on a trip in rainforests and rare animals, and in Congo, there is simply too much to explore.
Lastly, when making your plans to go to Congo, you should make sure that you book your visa through Go Kite Travel so that you come to the country without any complications. Their experience will make it easier to do the paperwork and can afford to appreciate the beauty and culture of this amazing country without worrying about it.