Border closures
Borders with neighbouring countries can close at short notice.
The border crossings at Bunagana and Chanika between the DRC and Uganda currently close in the evenings due to the ongoing ebola outbreak in the area.
Mining districts
You'll need official clearance from the relevant DRC ministry or government department before visiting a mining district.
More information:
Driving permit
To drive in the DRC, you'll need both:
You must get your IDP before you leave Australia.
Road travel
You're 5 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in the DRC than in Australia. Dangers include:
Military and police roadblocks are common.
Following large-scale prison breaks in Kinshasa, Béni and Kasangu, local authorities increased the number of checkpoints at night. Checkpoints include Gombe, Limete, Ngaba, Kintambo, Ngaliema, Ndjili, Mont Ngafula and around Camp Kokolo.
Criminals may use roadblocks to pose as police or military personnel and rob you. See Safety
To protect yourself while travelling on DRC roads:
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familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and practices
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be alert to possible hazards, especially at night
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check road conditions and risks before travel outside Kinshasa
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follow advice from local authorities
Carry government-issued identification, carte rose, carte grise and driver's licence at all times.
Ask for credentials if approached by an officer.
If you travel outside Kinshasa, have contingency plans and take emergency equipment such as a satellite phone.
More information:
Motorcycles
Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when riding a motorbike.
Always wear a helmet.
Taxis
Use registered taxis and limousines, preferably arranged through your hotel.
Avoid unofficial taxis or taxis hailed on the street. Robberies can occur.
Public transport
Don't use public transport. Bus and rail services are unsafe due to poor safety standards and crime.
Boat travel
Many boats and ferries are overloaded, lack lifesaving equipment and aren't seaworthy.
Kinshasa's main ferry terminal is congested and can close at short notice. Pay attention to your personal security in and around the terminal.
Air travel
Kinshasa's main airport, Ndjili International Airport, can close at short notice. Civil unrest has resulted in the cancellation of some flights to Kinshasa.
Local immigration and customs procedures at Kinshasa Airport are difficult. You may need help from people familiar with the process. If travelling by air, arrange for them to meet you when you arrive.
Pay attention to your personal security in and around the airport.
Avoid local airlines with poor maintenance and safety standards.
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check the DRC's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information: