Close to the Ndjili International Airport, just 30 minutes from the capital Congolese city of Kinshasa, lies the iconic and ever-expanding Parc de la Vallée de la N’Sele. A majestic 18000 hectare wildlife farm dedicated to the conservation of the local fauna and flora, found in abundance in the area, it showcases the breath-taking features of this natural wonderland. The park is continuously increasing its wildlife populations and now hosts buffalos, giraffes, zebras, impalas, lions, rhinos, elephants, hippos, and many more incredible animals. An all-encompassing safari tour of the park and its landscapes is available and can be arranged as a day trip, or as a long stay in the resort.

Experiencing the N’Sele Congo River boat cruise via speedboat on the safaris beach as it criss-crosses across the park, is a must, as visitors can sit back and relax in the peaceful environment. For those seeking a more adventurous experience there is kayaking, horse riding, zip-lining, hiking trails, mountain biking, and a children’s play area available. Aimed at attracting local families and tourists alike, the park has ample entertainment and unwinding events to keep even the most demanding in high spirits.

Inside the nature reserve you can find one of the finest restaurants in the country, Le Gazebo, offering a mixture of European and Congolese dishes containing cuisine sourced locally or grown on their own farm. Specializing in Plancha, or platters as they are known in South Africa, and Liboke, a river fish cooked in banana leaves over an open fire, the eatery is situated in the heart of the resort and is well known for its outstanding and exceptional dishes. Its services are not on offer every day, although bookings can be made, they are only open from Friday to Sunday with three meals served daily and picnic baskets available with reservations.

With free reigning animals as well as crocodiles and other species held on site, one is bound to glimpse a spectacular environmental setting along with the geographical splendour. Safaris are suggested in the afternoon as animals are not as active in the early morning sun and visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the restaurant with views of a nearby watering hole. The N’Sele river travels through deep gorges, is surrounded by wooded savannah grasses and the park is inhabited with some of Africa’s most well-known beasts. Visiting the park is not only a memorable event, but one that is sure to amaze its guests, entrance nature lovers, and fulfill fantasies of wildlife getaways.

With an online 4.8-star rating, visitors are assured that their experience will most definitely match their expectations. A planned trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) would be incomplete without a visit to this local gem, and there are a variety of travelling agents offering different types of trips to and from the reserve. When visiting Kinshasa remember to put the Parc de la Vallée de la N’Sele on your list of activities, with a stop at the Le Gazebo Restaurant at the top of your list!