Kinshasa in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Kinshasa
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Dry season transition brings clearer skies - only 10 rainy days compared to 18 in November, making outdoor exploration more predictable
- Congo River levels are optimal for boat excursions - water is high enough for safe navigation but not flooding season peaks
- Local art scene is most active - March coincides with post-harvest celebrations when traditional mask-making and sculpture workshops are in full swing
- Hotel rates are 30-40% lower than June-August peak season, with better availability at quality establishments like Pullman and Fleuve Congo Hotel
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms arrive suddenly around 3pm on 60% of days, lasting 45-90 minutes and flooding some streets temporarily
- High humidity (70%) combined with 32°C (89°F) heat creates exhausting conditions for walking between 11am-4pm
- Dust from Harmattan winds mixing with increased rainfall creates muddy conditions in Matonge and other unpaved areas
Best Activities in March
Congo River Sunset Cruises
March's stable water levels and clearer evening skies create perfect conditions for river excursions. The humidity drops significantly after 5pm, and you'll see Brazzaville's lights across the river without rainy season haze. Local fishermen return with their catches, creating authentic photo opportunities.
Marché Central and Artisan Quarter Walking Tours
March brings post-harvest abundance to central markets, with the best selection of seasonal fruits, textiles, and carved masks. Morning tours (7am-10am) avoid both afternoon heat and thunderstorms. The covered sections of Marché Central provide shelter, and artisans in nearby quarters are most productive during cooler morning hours.
Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary Visits
The sanctuary is 30 km (18.6 miles) south of central Kinshasa, and March's moderate rainfall keeps the forest lush without making access roads impassable. Bonobos are most active during morning feeding times before the day's heat peaks. The 70% humidity actually benefits the forest environment.
Symphonie Arts Centre Cultural Experiences
March is peak season for traditional music and dance performances as communities celebrate harvest season. The indoor venues provide perfect escape from afternoon thunderstorms. Contemporary Congolese art exhibitions rotate monthly, and March typically features emerging local artists.
Livingstone Falls Day Trips
Located 300 km (186 miles) upstream, March offers ideal water levels for viewing the falls without extreme flooding. The journey requires full-day commitment (10-12 hours) but March's weather patterns mean morning departure and afternoon return avoid most thunderstorms. Rapids are spectacular but not dangerously high.
Traditional Cooking Classes with Local Families
March's harvest season provides access to seasonal ingredients like fresh cassava leaves, river fish, and palm fruits. Indoor cooking activities are perfect for escaping afternoon humidity and thunderstorms. Local families are more available post-harvest season compared to busy farming months.
March Events & Festivals
Festival des Arts Traditionnels
Annual celebration of Congolese traditional arts featuring mask-making demonstrations, traditional dance competitions, and artisan markets. Held in various venues across Gombe and Kinshasa districts with indoor and covered outdoor spaces.
Congo Fashion Week Preview Events
Pre-season showcases and designer presentations leading up to the main fashion week. Emerging Congolese designers present collections inspired by traditional textiles and contemporary African fashion.