Mbandaka- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Mbandaka, the capital of Équateur Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is situated near the confluence of the Congo and Ruki rivers, just north of the equator. Founded in 1883 by explorer Henry Morton Stanley as "Équateurville," the city was later renamed to honor a local leader. Mbandaka serves as a key port city, facilitating river transport between Kinshasa and Kisangani. The city is home to the Eala Botanical Garden, established in 1900, which spans approximately 371 hectares and houses a diverse collection of plant species. The local population predominantly comprises the Mongo ethnic group, with Lingala and French as the main languages spoken. Despite challenges such as infrastructure deterioration, Mbandaka remains a significant hub in the Congo Basin region.