The opening of two international-standard hotels in the heart of Kinshasa is more than a hospitality update, it’s a sign that the world might finally be giving faith in the potential of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). With the debut of Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa and Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa, travellers now have access to globally recognized comfort and service in a city that has long been absent from mainstream tourism. This development may mark the beginning of a new chapter for Tourism in DRC.
For decades, the DRC’s natural beauty, lush rainforests, rare wildlife, sweeping rivers and vibrant cultures, remained largely ignored by visitors from abroad. Instability, poor infrastructure, and lack of investment discouraged both tourists and international hotel brands. In that context, the arrival of Marriott is more than just business expansion: it is a statement of belief in the country’s future as a destination.
Now, with world-class hotels and improving connectivity, the DRC might finally be putting itself on the travel map. But for Tourism in DRC to truly thrive, improvements in infrastructure, security, and travel logistics must accompany investor interest.
Why Tourism in DRC was stunted for so long
Years of conflict and instability kept most visitors away. Armed conflicts, regional insecurity and a poor safety record made large parts of the country off-limits or too risky for tourists.
At the same time, inadequate infrastructure made travel and hospitality a major challenge. Roads were poor or non-existent in many regions, airports lacked modern facilities, and quality lodging was scarce outside a handful of urban centers. With these logistical hurdles, even the DRC’s enormous natural and cultural wealth remained largely inaccessible to tourists.
Moreover, because resources and political focus often went toward mining and natural resource extraction rather than tourism development, the potential of conservation, eco-tourism, and sustainable travel was never fully realized.
Thus, despite its riches, the DRC stayed off most travel-wish lists, its tourism potential remained a fragile, under-developed promise.
Why hotel chains avoided DRC until now 
International hotel operators typically require stable environments, predictable demand, and reliable logistics to uphold their standards. For many years the DRC could not guarantee these fundamentals: security was shaky, transport and utilities were unreliable, and there was no clear demand from foreign tourists or business travelers.
Global perceptions of the DRC shaped by conflict, exploitation, and crisis also overshadowed its appeal as a travel destination. Attempting to market it as safe, comfortable, or attractive seemed unrealistic for many brands.
But things seem to be slowly shifting: improvements in safety (at least in parts of the country), urban development, and increased interest in Central African connectivity have created a window of opportunity. The decision by a major global brand to invest was likely a hard-earned bet but one reflecting growing confidence in future prospects.
What changed and why Marriott decided to invest
The debut of Protea and Four Points in Kinshasa reflects growing confidence in the city’s prospects. Kinshasa is emerging as a hub of commerce, diplomacy, and culture a metropolitan center where demand for reliable lodging is rising.
Additionally, improvements in travel infrastructure and public-private cooperation have laid the groundwork for a more tourism-friendly environment. Rehabilitated hotels, modernized airports, and a streamlining of border procedures appear to be part of a broader effort to boost the hospitality sector.
By entering now, Marriott gains first-mover advantage: well-positioned properties for business and leisure travelers, a brand visitors trust, and the opportunity to influence standards as Tourism in DRC evolves.
Safety: Can you visit DRC now and where?
Safety remains the main concern. Many remote or conflict-affected regions especially in the east remain unstable, with ongoing violence, militia activity, and weak governance. In those areas, tourism and travel remain highly risky.
However, urban centers like Kinshasa are relatively more stable. Reports suggest that while petty crime, pickpocketing, theft, occasional armed robbery does occur, outright violence against foreigners in secure, well-trod districts appears less common. Visitors staying in safe neighborhoods and reputable hotels generally fare better.
For travelers willing to be cautious, sticking to safer zones, using trusted transport and guides, and avoiding conflict areas, visiting parts of the DRC is possible. But preparation, awareness, and flexibility remain essential.
What makes DRC worth visiting beyond the city
The DRC’s real allure lies beyond urban walls. Dense tropical rainforests, sweeping rivers, mountain ranges and rich biodiversity offer experiences rarely matched elsewhere. Although tourism remains fragile, there is growing recognition that the country harbors world-class destinations waiting to be discovered.
Efforts are already underway to rehabilitate heritage hotels, improve access, and support conservation-minded tourism. These are all signs that the DRC could gradually emerge as a compelling destination for nature- and adventure-travel.
Is Tourism in DRC ready to bloom?
The arrival of major international hotels in Kinshasa marks an important milestone for Tourism in DRC. It shows that global players believe in the country’s potential. But true revival will depend on consistent improvements in security, infrastructure, travel logistics, and tourism governance.
For cautiously optimistic travelers and investors, the DRC offers a rare blend of untapped natural beauty, emerging comfort, and pioneering spirit. If the right efforts continue, Tourism in DRC could soon evolve from a fragile idea into a respected, sustainable reality.