Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo 🇨🇩.
Visiting Kinshasa on business? 💼 Do you need a guide to running in Kinshasa? Staying at the Pullman, the Fleuve Congo or the Kin Plaza Arjaan? A little bit further, in the Hilton or the Memling? Or perhaps you’re in the Gombe area for a few days? Good news: you can safely and enjoyably get your morning run in, while discovering the energy of this vibrant capital.
We ran these exact routes during our experience at the 🏆 Congo River Marathon—and they were the best way to stay active while soaking in the city.
💼 Quick Summary
- Safe, central, scenic and energizing 🏞️🏨. Stay fit while in Kinshasa!
- Ideal for business travelers, expats, and short-term visitors.
- Two recommended routes: Pullman–Congo River loop & Decathlon roundtrip.
- Best time to run: 6:00–7:30 AM (cooler temps + minimal traffic).
- General safety: what you should know.
- Why is it worth running in Kinshasa.
- Frequently Asked Questions.
- Final tips.
- Music playlist.
Whether you’re traveling for meetings or exploring the city, these two routes give you safe and scenic ways to move:
🗺️ Route Option 1: Congo River Out-and-Back from Pullman (5K)
Distance: ~5 km
Start/Finish: Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel.
Route: Avenue Batetela → Turn right at the roundabout → run along the Congo River on Boulevard Tshatshi / Avenue des Aviateurs up to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, then turn around and return.
🏞️ Highlights:
- Peaceful morning breeze from the Congo River 🌊.
- Shaded sidewalks, embassies, and minimal early traffic.
- Well-patrolled Gombe neighborhood, with military presence offering passive security.
- Local life: vendors, early joggers, and Kinshasa waking up.
- A few bumps and potholes—watch your step! 👀
We used this exact route during our warm-up runs for the Congo River Marathon. It helped us get a feel for the city’s layout and vibe ahead of race day. And I wrote about it.
🛍️ Route Option 2: Pullman to Decathlon Kinshasa Out-and-Back
Distance: ~7–8 km.
Start/Finish: Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel.
Route: From Pullman, head south on Avenue Batetela → continue west on Boulevard du 30 Juin → merge onto Avenue Colonel Mondjiba → run to Decathlon Kinshasa, then turn around and return.
🏃 Highlights:
- A longer run option for those with more time or training for races like the 🏆 Congo River Marathon.
- A blend of urban chaos and suburban greenery 🌿.
- Pass key Kinshasa landmarks and business districts.
- Moderate inclines, wider roads, and less foot traffic as you approach Ngaliema.
- Great for building distance while staying central.
- Passing by the best local sports store for last-minute gear! 🎽
- Close to supermarkets and cafes for a post-run snack ☕🍌
- Ends right back at the Pullman, perfect for a post-run shower and breakfast 🍳
We loved this route as part of our training leading up to the Congo River Marathon.
It gave us more time on the road, let us explore Kinshasa beyond Gombe, and gave us a reason to visit Decathlon—ideal if you forget gear or just want to browse sportswear.
And if you want to read about our actual experience, visit this post.
🔐 General Safety in Kinshasa: What You Should Know
- 🚫 Avoid walking alone at night. Even in Gombe (the safest area), stick to walking during daylight or use a trusted driver at night.
- 🚖 Use official taxis or arrange private transport. Apps like Yango operate in Kinshasa, or your hotel can help call a driver.
- 💍 Don’t display valuables. Keep phones, cameras, and jewelry discreet, especially in crowded areas.
- 🪪 Carry ID or a copy of your passport. Police and military checkpoints are common, especially around Gombe.
- 🗺️ Stay informed about local events. Political demonstrations can happen unexpectedly. Ask your hotel or guide about areas to avoid.
- 🏛️ Register with your embassy if you’re staying for several days.
- 👜 Watch for petty theft. Be especially mindful in markets or busy intersections.
- 🛏️ Stay in secure accommodations. International hotels like the Pullman offer 24/7 security and trusted services.
- 🕰️ Be patient and flexible. Schedules can change, power may go out, or roads can be closed without notice — that’s Kinshasa charm 🌀
- ⚠️ Avoid traveling outside Kinshasa. The eastern parts of the DRC are under conflict and unsafe. Stick to Kinshasa and surroundings
🏃♀️ Why Running in Kinshasa is Worth It
- 🌍 Explore the city safely and actively.
- 💼 Fit exercise around a packed business schedule.
- 🤝 Connect with local rhythms and scenes.
- 🧘♂️ Clear your mind before meetings or flights.
- 🏅 Train like we did for the Congo River Marathon or use these routes as part of your active travel routine!
💡 Bonus Tip: If you’re running the marathon or just want great pasta the night before a long run, check out my story about Carboloading Pasta Night at A Casa Mia, co-organized by the Italian Embassy. It was a highlight of our Congo River Marathon 🍝🇮🇹.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to run in Kinshasa as a foreigner?
➡️ Yes, particularly in Gombe or Ngaliema before 8am. Stick to well-trafficked streets, avoid headphones, and stay alert.
Q: Is there a running community in Kinshasa?
➡️ Yes! Weekend clubs meet for social runs. Ask staff at Decathlon or your hotel concierge for tips.
Q: Can I buy gear in Kinshasa?
➡️ Yes—Decathlon Kinshasa offers running shoes, hydration belts, and more.
Q: What’s the Congo River Marathon like?
➡️ It’s an unforgettable experience through the heart of Kinshasa, with enthusiastic crowds, chaotic charm, and a mix of international and local runners. Check our full post here for our full story and race recap! 🏃♀️🏁
📍 Final Tips
- 🧢 Wear light, breathable clothing.
- 🌤️ “Be like the running ginger” and use sunscreen—even early morning sun is strong.
- 🏨 Confirm early check-in/showers with your hotel after a run.
- 📷 Bring your phone for photos of sunrise over the Congo.
- 📩 Tag your Kinshasa runs on social: #RunKinshasa #BusinessRunner #CongoRiverMarathon #PullmanFitness
🎧 Congo Vibes Running Playlist
- 🔥 Papa Wemba – “Show Me the Way”
A Congolese legend. Smooth yet rhythmic — perfect for warming up or cruising along the boulevard.
- 🤳 Koffi Olomide – “Selfie”
Modern soukous vibes. Catchy, fast-paced, and pure Kinshasa energy.
- 💃 Fally Ipupa – “Eloko Oyo”
A top hit by a contemporary Congolese artist. Great for pushing through your middle kilometers.
And it always brings me back memories of our trip in the river congo in a very very similar boat! See our pictures here and then compare it with the video!
- 🐒 Mbilia Bel – “Nakei Nairobi”
An absolute classic. Brings a nostalgic African groove and rich vocals for a steady pace.
- 🛶 Franco – “Mario”
At over 10 minutes, this is a storytelling groove — ideal for those longer stretches when you need to get into a rhythm.
- 💫 Awilo Longomba – “Coupé Bibamba”
A favourite of mine! The 90s were the best! High tempo, electrifying drums — crank this up during your second lap or when your energy dips!
- 🌍 Lokua Kanza – “Wapi Yo”
To finish up, a calmer, spiritual track. Ideal for cool down or reflective runs as the Congo River flows beside you.
🧡 The Running Ginger Special Track
🎶 Dr. Alban – “Hello Afrika”
This one is sentimental… It’s old-school, but it gets me every time. That voice shouting ‘Hello Afrika, tell me how you’re doing!’ has the power to bring back all the reasons I love running in Africa.
Not Congolese per se, but an anthem of African pride and unity, with an iconic beat that fits beautifully into a Kinshasa running soundtrack — especially for someone traveling to DRC for the first time or taking on the Congo River Marathon!