Notable for its mangrove forest and the only marine park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mangroves National park is a protected area and Ramseur wetland providing shelter to the endangered Manatee population situated at the Congo river mouth within the territory of Moanda, close to the proximity to the Democratic Republic of Congo’s only true ocean town of Muanda where most visitors come from before visiting the park. The mangroves are different from the ones found in South Asia forming a different type of mangrove forest typical to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The park was established in 1992, with an area span of 768 square kilometers, which makes it the smallest national park in the country with massive mangroves spread all over the place. The park is divided into three regions which include; the riverside land area, coastal strip, and the numerous numbers of mangroves island, all these are fully protected compared to the others that remain partially protected. The mainland consists of vegetation made up of lush forests and plant life, mostly covered with leafy plants, vines, and dense growth of African hoak, red cedar, and walnut trees. Tall grasses can be found along the coastal line as well as coconut palms scattered all over.

The fauna of Mangroves National Park is also what makes it such a unique natural wonder to this specific area. With an abundant marine life consisting of hippos, crocodiles, snakes, and also an area where protected and endangered manatee population reside here. On the mainland of the National park, poaching has become a serious issue but still smaller populations of monkeys, southern reedbuck, and bushbuck still exist despite the dangerous threats upon them.

WWF has increasingly done well in providing better understanding and awareness of the protected area of Mangroves National Park that they believe is essential to the building up of a strong ecotourism system whose potential of the eco-tourism within the land has led to its recent recognition by the country.

Size of Mangrove national park DR Congo

At 768 km² (297 sq mi) in size, the park is DR Congo’s smallest protected area.

Location of Mangrove national park DR Congo

Mangroves National Park is a protected area and Ramseur wetland in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the country’s only marine park and is notable for its mangrove forests. It provides protection to the endangered manatee population situated at the mouth of the Congo River.

How to get to Mangrove national park DR Congo

Mangroves national can be accessed by road or air transport to Muada town then tourists can drive from Muada town to the park.

Things to do in Mangrove national park DR Congo

Several tours and guides are available for taking guests and visitors to the lands of the National park as well as Congo Riverboat tours where you can get an ultimate personal experience with some of the marine life such as the endangered manatees.

Boat cruise

Boat cruises at the Congo River provide better viewing of hippos, crocodiles, manatees, and a lot of aquatic birds plus a reward of panoramic views of the national park.

Wildlife viewing

Tourists can easily encounter; reedbucks, bushbucks, snakes, monkeys, and manatee amidst the striking mangrove trees.

Fishing

The Congo River is filled with different fish species which makes fishing the best recreational activity suitable for the tourists after their wildlife encounter. However, the tourists must be able to come with their fishing gears

Bird watching

Mangrove national park is blessed with a variety of bird species available for avid birders which include; Kingfishers, egrets, vultures, herons among others.

When to visit Mangrove national park DR Congo

The park is visited at any time throughout the year, but the Wet season is highly rewarding as the wild plants come to life to give nature its full meaning as the dry season provides a proper glimpse of the wildlife sunbathing at the ocean side.

Where to stay in Mangrove national park DR Congo

There is no accommodation yet at Mangroves national park, tourists can carry their own camping gear or sleep in hotels at Muada town. The town hotels range from Budget, mid-range, and luxurious.