What we experienced
For Bombo Lumene you need a proper vehicle: the track to the camp takes about thirty minutes and needs high ground clearance. We went in a Toyota 4x4.
You sleep in tents on platforms perched above the savannah. Nights are cool, even in summer: bring sleeping bags, torches and a rain jacket.
On the programme: a family run along the trails, crossing the liana bridge over the river, a swim (don't forget your swimsuits), and an evening round the campfire.
From the sky
The camp and the liana bridge, seen by drone
From the drone you can see the whole camp: the lodges dotted across the savannah, and the river you cross on a liana bridge.
Practical info
Getting there
- About 2h30 from central Kinshasa, along the N1 towards Kenge (Maluku district).
- The reserve doesn't arrange transport.
- 30-minute track: high-clearance vehicle essential, ideally a 4x4.
- Car with driver outside Kinshasa: $200 a day.
Sleeping (per night)
| Large tent on a platform, 4 people | 110 $ |
| Lodge room, 3 people | 100 $ |
| Tent on a platform, 3 people | 90 $ |
| Dome tent under a straw shelter, 2 people | 50 $ |
| Small tent, 2 people | 20 $ |
| Wild camping, per person | 10 $ |
Eating
| Half chicken, meat, fresh fish | 15 $ |
| Chicken leg, salted fish | 5 $ |
| Pondu, mfumbwa, plantain, chips | 5 $ |
| Beans, chikwangue, rice | 2,5 $ |
| Tembo beer | 8,000 FC |
| Coca-Cola, Fanta, Vitalo | 4,000 FC |
Order meals before you arrive: the kitchen buys the ingredients.
Activities
- Guided hikes and the liana bridge
- Swimming in the Lumene (confident swimmers)
- Birdwatching, table tennis, volleyball, archery
- Campfire on request, night walk
What to pack
Nights are cool, even in August: sleeping bags, rain jackets and torches. Swimsuits for the river.
The budget for one night
About $655 for a family of 6, meals and car included
Entry $75, two tents $200, vehicle $200 and about $180 for meals. The guide covers the weekend in detail; the €89 offer puts you in touch with a driver who has a 4x4.
FAQ
How much is entry to Bombo Lumene?
$15 per adult and $10 per child aged 6 to 17 at the international rate, which is what the diaspora pays. Free under 6.
Do you need a 4x4?
Yes, or at least a high-clearance vehicle: the access track takes about 30 minutes. A Toyota Noah won't make it.
Can you eat on site?
Yes, as long as you order before you arrive: about $15 a meal and $7.50 for breakfast.