Is Kinshasa safe to visit right now? (November 2026)

Travel advisories for Democratic Republic of the Congo

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates the Democratic Republic of the Congo at Level 4 - Do Not Travel, an advisory dated July 15, 2026; this rating is applied at the country level, not specifically to Kinshasa.
• The UK FCDO advisory, last updated October 8, 2026, also covers the country broadly while including region-specific detail for areas like North Kivu and Ituri provinces in eastern DRC.
• The FCDO notes a high threat of terrorism, with the group ADF carrying out regular attacks in North and Ituri provinces, including against bars, places of worship, markets, and vehicle convoys; travelers should stay aware of surroundings and follow local media.
• Protests tied to the presence of peacekeeping forces have occurred in Kinshasa and Goma, including violent demonstrations outside embassies on January 28, 2025, which involved gun fire and an increased security presence; such events can close shops, restrict movement, and occur with little notice.
• In the event of serious unrest, commercial flights may be suspended, roads blocked, borders closed, and communications networks disrupted, so the FCDO advises keeping travel documents current and having contingency plans in place.
• Street crime, including robbery near hotels and supermarkets and express kidnappings involving forced ATM withdrawals, has been reported in Kinshasa; the FCDO recommends avoiding walking alone at any time, especially after dark, not displaying valuables, and using only pre-booked transport rather than hailing taxis in the street.
• Criminal kidnapping has been reported in parts of Kinshasa, including the Limete area, sometimes involving people posing as police or security personnel; solo travelers in particular should arrange transport through a hotel or tour operator and avoid isolated areas after dark.