10 Things to Do in La Cité des Nations, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is a vibrant and bustling city that offers visitors a unique experience. La Cité des Nations, located in the heart of the city, is the perfect place to explore the city’s culture, history, and attractions. Here are 10 things to do while visiting La Cité des Nations in Kinshasa.
1. Visit the Presidential Palace: The Presidential Palace, or Palais de la Nation, is the official residence of the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Built in the 1950s, it is a stunning example of colonial architecture and is open to the public for tours.
2. Explore the Markets: La Cité des Nations is home to a number of vibrant markets, including the Grand Marché and the Marché des Fleurs. Here you can find a variety of goods, from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and souvenirs.
3. Visit the National Museum: The National Museum of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is located in La Cité des Nations. It houses a collection of artifacts and artworks that tell the story of the country’s history and culture.
4. Explore the Cathedrals: Kinshasa is home to two beautiful cathedrals, the Cathedral of St. Pierre and the Cathedral of St. Paul. Both are stunning examples of Gothic architecture and are worth a visit.
5. Take a River Cruise: The Congo River is the second-longest river in Africa and offers visitors the chance to take a relaxing cruise. The cruises depart from La Cité des Nations and take you up and down the river, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
6. Visit the Zoo: The Kinshasa Zoo is located in La Cité des Nations and is home to a variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, elephants, and more. It is a great place to spend the day with the family.
7. Take a Tour of the City: Kinshasa is a bustling and vibrant city, and taking a tour of the city is a great way to get to know it better. There are a number of tour companies that offer guided tours of the city and its attractions.
8. Sample the Local Cuisine: Kinshasa is home to a variety of delicious dishes, from traditional Congolese cuisine to international fare. There are a number of restaurants and cafes in La Cité des Nations where you can sample the local cuisine.
9. Enjoy the Nightlife: Kinshasa is known for its vibrant nightlife, and La Cité des Nations is no exception. There are a number of bars and clubs in the area that offer live music, dancing, and other entertainment.
10. Shop at the Souks: The Souks are a great way to experience the culture of Kinshasa. Here you can find a variety of goods, from traditional crafts to modern clothes and accessories. It is a great place to find unique mementos to take home.
Kinshasa is a vibrant and exciting city that offers visitors a unique experience. La Cité des Nations is the perfect place to explore the city’s culture, history, and attractions. Whether you are looking for a relaxing river cruise, a chance to sample the local cuisine, or a night out on the town, La Cité des Nations has something for everyone.