Travel Preparation Guide · Connectivity
Power & Connectivity (SIM)
Connectivity may vary by region and season.
Voltage & Plug Types
Electrical standards and outlet shapes
⚡220V / 50Hz
🔌Type C / D / E(Mixed (round 2-pin common))
🔄Universal adapter recommended
💡Electricity very unreliable; always carry a fully charged power bank.
Buying a SIM Card
Where to buy, costs, and activation process
📱Vodacom, Airtel, Orange
🏪Carrier shops in Kinshasa, street vendors
📋Passport required
💰SIM from $2-10 for 7-30 days
💡Coverage very limited outside major cities; buy SIM in Kinshasa.
eSIM & Mobile Wi-Fi
eSIM availability and portable Wi-Fi rental
📶Very limited — International eSIM providers only
🏢Airalo (limited coverage)
💰$10-30 for 1-3GB / 7-15 days
💡Extremely limited coverage; physical SIM strongly recommended.
Wi-Fi Availability
Public Wi-Fi coverage and security
📡Poor — very limited WiFi availability
🏨Only in upscale hotels in Kinshasa; unreliable
☕Virtually nonexistent
💡Mobile data via Vodacom is the most reliable internet option.
Internet Restrictions & VPN
Blocked services and VPN recommendations
🔒Moderate — shutdowns during political events
🚫Internet shutdowns during elections and protests, social media blocked intermittently
🛡️Recommended — install before arrival
💡Prepare offline content; shutdowns can last days during political unrest.
Useful Local Apps
Must-have apps for transport, translation, and maps
🚗Local taxis only, motorcycle taxis
🗺️Maps.me for offline (essential)
💬WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger
💡Download all maps offline before arrival; data is expensive and slow.
International Calls
How to make international calls and alternatives
📞+243 (DR Congo)
🆘112 (Emergency), 113 (Police), 118 (Fire)
📲Dial 00 + country code + number for international calls
💡Network coverage unreliable outside major cities; keep credit topped up.