National Tourism Office / DRC in Golf, Kinshasa – Visitor Guide

The Office National du Tourisme (ONT) is the official body charged with promoting and developing tourism across the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Based in Kinshasa’s Golf area, the ONT works to showcase the country’s cultural riches, natural landscapes and heritage to national and international audiences. Its mission is to grow the tourism sector, encourage investment, and make the RDC a recognised destination within Africa and beyond. The directorate emphasises collaboration with public and private sector partners to curate authentic, attractive and sustainable visitor experiences.

Key aims expressed on the organisation’s site centre on promotion, marketing and development, with an eye to positioning the RDC as a tourism destination that can compete on a global stage. The ONT highlights a forward-looking strategy for 2025 that includes expanding the visibility of RDC’s tourism offer and coordinating efforts across regional offices, agencies and partners. The network behind the Office comprises hundreds of staff and regional contacts, reflecting a commitment to a broad and coordinated approach to growth.

Highlights and initiatives

The ONT describes several strategic projects designed to stimulate innovation and sustainable development in the sector. These include:

• Microfinancing initiatives to support tourism-related ventures and operators.
• Digitisation efforts aimed at simplifying travel planning, booking and on-site experiences through smartphones and connected platforms.
• Maison du Tourisme concepts, acting as essential information hubs to orient visitors, promote RDC’s cultural and natural assets, and strengthen the country’s tourism appeal.
• A forthcoming Centre de Formation to train professionals meeting local and regional market needs.

In addition to these projects, the ONT emphasises the importance of a professional, well-coordinated tourist sector, encouraging standards that raise the overall visitor experience. The organisation also highlights partnerships and ongoing engagement with tourism operators to create a more attractive, responsible and culturally rich destination.

What to do and what you’ll find

Based in Kinshasa’s Golf district, the ONT focuses on promoting RDC’s diverse attractions—cultural, natural and patrimonial. Visitors can expect information on itineraries, places to visit and opportunities to engage with communities in a sustainable manner. The organisation’s public-facing materials and articles indicate active involvement in international events and regional development activities that help to highlight the country’s potential and ongoing efforts to advance the sector.

Who it’s best for

The ONT serves a broad audience—from international travellers seeking authentic African experiences to local and regional stakeholders interested in investment, capacity development and professional tourism. It is also a resource for partners, researchers and others who want to understand RDC’s tourism ecosystem, understand planned developments and participate in the country’s growth as a tourism destination.

Practical tips for visitors

• Consult the ONT’s resources and latest articles for current events, promotions and newly launched initiatives that may affect itineraries or access to services.
• Look for official tourism information hubs (Maison du Tourisme) as convenient starting points for orientation, maps and context about RDC’s cultural and natural assets.
• Plan ahead for digital services as Kenya-style or mobile platforms may be part of the country’s digitisation efforts, improving planning and reservations.
• Respect local customs and environments; support community-based initiatives and sustainable practices where possible.

Best time to visit

While the site does not prescribe a specific “best time” to visit, RDC’s climate varies by region. Kinshasa experiences a tropical climate with a wet season and a dry season. For outdoor and nature experiences, consider the weather patterns and plan accordingly, keeping an eye on any regional advisories or event schedules highlighted by the ONT.

Getting there and getting around

The ONT operates as a national coordinating body with its main presence in Kinshasa. Visitors typically access RDC via international gateways into the capital or other major hubs, then leverage national routes and regional offices to explore additional destinations. The ONT’s digitisation and information services aim to facilitate planning and travel arrangements, with Maison du Tourisme points of information serving as practical hubs.

Safety and etiquette

As with most destinations, travellers should stay informed through official channels for any safety advisories and local guidance. The ONT’s emphasis on sustainable and culturally respectful tourism suggests engaging with communities responsibly, supporting locally owned services and respecting traditions and environments.

Practical contact and further information

For more details on programmes, projects and current initiatives, visit the official site at

http://www.officetourisme.cd/

Notes: This guide synthesises the information published by the Office National du Tourisme and provides an overview of its aims, projects and role within RDC’s tourism landscape. Where specific prices, names or awards are not listed on the site, statements remain general to avoid unfounded claims.