Is Mbuji-Mayi safe to visit right now? (November 2026)

Travel advisories for Democratic Republic of the Congo

What the advice says

• The US State Department advisory for the Democratic Republic of the Congo is Level 4 - Do Not Travel, dated 2026-07-15; this is a country-level advisory, not specific to Mbuji-Mayi.
• The UK FCDO advisory, last updated October 8, 2026, is also issued at the country level and covers regions of the DRC rather than Mbuji-Mayi specifically.
• The FCDO notes a high threat of terrorism in the DRC, with groups such as ADF carrying out attacks primarily in North Kivu and Ituri provinces, targeting villages, military personnel, bars, places of worship, markets, and vehicle convoys.
• Political tensions have led to protests in Kinshasa and Goma, including incidents outside embassies in January 2025 that involved gunfire; demonstrations can occur with little notice and turn violent, sometimes leading to flight suspensions, road blockages, border closures, and reduced phone or internet service.
• Street crime, including robbery and scams by organized gangs and groups of children, is a particular risk for foreign nationals in urban centers like Kinshasa and Lubumbashi, especially near hotels and supermarkets; solo travelers should avoid walking alone, particularly after dark.
• Criminal kidnapping, including so-called express kidnaps where victims are taken to ATMs, has been reported in parts of Kinshasa such as Limete; the FCDO advises using pre-booked transport rather than hailing taxis on the street.
• Travel outside Kinshasa and major towns is described as having extremely limited transport and accommodation, so the FCDO recommends arranging travel in advance and traveling with experienced people or organizations.