The UNESCO sites in Democratic Republic of the Congo have resulted from the recognition of 5 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and 3 locations on the Democratic Republic of the Congo UNESCO tentative list. These touristic sites in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In addition to these 5 sites in the Democratic Republic of the Congo UNESCO list, there are many other places to travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo that are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the rich cultural heritage of the country and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.
To help visitors discover these remarkable Democratic Republic of the Congo tourist attractions, we have put together an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Democratic Republic of the Congo UNESCO Map
Click markers to show information and photo.
World Heritage Sites in Democratic Republic of the Congo
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Democratic Republic of the Congo
There are 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Democratic Republic of the Congo. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.
- Garamba National Park
- Kahuzi-Biega National Park
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve
- Salonga National Park
- Virunga National Park
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Democratic Republic of the Congo are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.
Garamba National Park
Garamba National Park, located in the northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of exceptional natural and cultural significance. This vast park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including savannahs, forests, rivers, and swamps, supporting a rich wildlife array. It is home to iconic species such as elephants, giraffes, hippos, and the critically endangered Kordofan giraffe. Garamba National Park also holds historical and cultural value, with archaeological sites showcasing human presence dating back thousands of years. Despite facing numerous challenges, including poaching and armed conflict, Garamba National Park remains a beacon of conservation efforts and a testament to the unique biodiversity of the African continent.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Kahuzi-Biega National Park, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and unique natural features. The park is home to the critically endangered eastern lowland gorillas, making it an important sanctuary for their conservation. With its vast rainforests, rugged mountains, and diverse ecosystems, Kahuzi-Biega National Park offers a breathtaking landscape that captivates visitors. This protected area also showcases various other wildlife, including chimpanzees, forest elephants, and bird species. It serves as a remarkable testament to the region’s ecological significance and the need for its preservation.
Okapi Wildlife Reserve
The Okapi Wildlife Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the northeastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This vast reserve is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity and is home to numerous rare and endangered species. The reserve is mainly known for its namesake, the elusive Okapi, a unique forest-dwelling mammal resembling a cross between a giraffe and a zebra. It also harbors other iconic species such as forest elephants, chimpanzees, and numerous bird species. The Okapi Wildlife Reserve is not only a wildlife sanctuary but also plays a crucial role in preserving the rich cultural heritage of local indigenous communities.
Salonga National Park
Salonga National Park, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of exceptional value. Spanning over 36,000 square kilometers, it is one of Africa’s largest tropical rainforests and a haven for biodiversity. This magnificent park is home to numerous endangered species, including bonobos, forest elephants, and Congo peacocks. Its dense vegetation, meandering rivers, and untouched wilderness create a mesmerizing environment for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike. Salonga National Park is a testament to preserving our planet’s natural treasures for future generations to appreciate and cherish.
Virunga National Park
Virunga National Park is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is a haven of extraordinary biodiversity, housing many species, including the endangered mountain gorillas. The park is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, encompassing lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and the iconic Virunga Massif. This unique combination of natural wonders makes Virunga National Park an unparalleled destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. However, the park also faces significant conservation challenges due to poaching, armed conflicts, and environmental threats, making efforts to protect and preserve this extraordinary site of utmost importance.
Democratic Republic of the Congo UNESCO tentative list
- Grottes de Dimba et Ngovo
- Grottes de Matupi
- Dépression de l’Upemba
Tours in Democratic Republic of the Congo
Our choices of tours in Democratic Republic of the Congo are divided into thematic features such as Idjwi Island, Kisangani, and Virunga National Park Experience.