What we experienced
From Kimpese we set off early: about 1h30 to Kisantu, then 56 km of dirt track to Zongo. The first few kilometres are sometimes done at 10 km/h, the track is that damaged: it took us 6 hours in a Toyota Noah. On the way there we were lucky, no problems at all.
When we arrived at Seli Safari Zongo, we dropped our bags: bungalows, tents, a restaurant, straw huts and a pool. Then the team took us down to the falls. The way down is rocky and uneven: with kids, their help makes all the difference.
And once you’re at the bottom… it’s a shock. Powerful, wide, roaring, misty falls. The kind of place where you feel small and the kids just stand there open-mouthed. Enough to forget the 6 hours on the track.
Then you climb back up, eat, breathe. The food was a real surprise: pondu, madesu, fufu, fish, chicken, liboke… In the evening: pool, photos, chilling, then bed. Our driver slept in a tent.
The next morning, we carried on to the Étaka natural pool, about 20 minutes away: a waterfall where the kids can swim.
From the sky
Us, on site
We arrive at Seli Safari, explore the site, then the drone follows us along the path to the falls.
Practical info
Getting there
- By car with a driver: about 8 hours on the road from Kimpese on our itinerary.
- Without a car: a shuttle leaves Kinshasa on Saturdays at 7 am, returning on Sundays at 1:30 pm. $40 return.
Eating
- Barbecue: $6
- À la carte meal: $24
- Buffet: $36 per person
- Drinks: $2.50 to $7
Watch out
The road to Zongo is hard on tyres: we had two punctures on the way back. Check the spare wheel before you leave and avoid driving at night.
Budget tip
For a family of 6, picking the right accommodation saves nearly $280 a night
The details, the prices for each place to stay and the rest of this leg are in the Kinshasa–Muanda in 8 days guide.
FAQ
How much is entry to Zongo Falls?
$6 per person. The entry fee covers the falls, the beach and the site's pool.
Can you get there from Kinshasa without a car?
Yes: an air-conditioned shuttle bus leaves on Saturdays at 7 am and comes back on Sundays at 1:30 pm, for $40 return.
Where to stay at Zongo?
Right on the site, from the premium tent (from $72 a night, breakfast included) to the family villa.