Kisangani

About Kisangani

Deep in the heart of the Congo basin, Kisangani stands where the great river becomes navigable again below a series of rapids, and for more than a century it has been the meeting point of river, forest and trade in the north-east of the country. Founded as a trading station named Stanley Falls in the 1880s, it was later called Stanleyville before taking its present name.

The city's landmark is the river itself. Just upstream lie the Boyoma Falls, where Wagenia fishermen still build wooden scaffolds across the rapids to hang large conical fish traps, a tradition handed down for generations, and the Tshopo River tumbles over its own falls inside the city. A cathedral, a university and busy markets mark the centre, and river boats still link Kisangani with Kinshasa far downstream.

Travel here takes planning: check current safety advice, arrange local guides and transport in advance, and expect basic tourist facilities. Those who come are rewarded with powerful scenery and a strong sense of life on the Congo River.