Plizio Visual Lab
Boma (Former Capital)
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Historical site
Weather…
Water temperature…
Boma served as the first capital of the Congo Free State and later the Belgian Congo from 1886 until 1926. Located on the north bank of the Congo River, approximately 100 kilometers inland from the Atlantic Ocean, the city was a critical hub for colonial trade and administration. Originally a major slave trading post in the 17th century, Boma evolved under Belgian rule into a modern export port for rubber and ivory. Numerous historical structures, such as the old Governor General's residence and an early colonial iron prison cell, still stand as witnesses to this era. In 1926, the capital status was transferred to Léopoldville, now Kinshasa, due to its superior location for inland transport and communication. Despite losing its political primacy, Boma remains a significant port for the Kongo Central province and hosts important industrial facilities. The city is also famous for its monumental baobab tree, which was once utilized as a makeshift prison cell during the early colonial years.
- Location: Congo - Kinshasa
- Top sights: Former residence of the Governor-General · Premier Camp Militaire
- Nearby: Lukula (52 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 109 | 112 | 158 | 152 | 101 | 6 | 0 | 5 | 19 | 94 | 147 | 131 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The former capital Boma is now a historical site with remaining colonial buildings. The buildings can be viewed from outside, some may be open to the public.
Typical hours
As there are no fixed opening hours, it is best to plan the visit during daytime. Local guides can often be arranged on the spot.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most places; however, respect local customs. In some government buildings, photography may be restricted.
Time needed
Allow about an hour for a walk through the historic center. The main buildings are within short walking distance of each other.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a trip to Moanda on the Atlantic coast or exploration of the Congo River. The region also provides nature reserves like Luki Reserve.
Getting there
Boma is about 75 km from Matadi, reachable by car or taxi. Road conditions can be variable; a rugged vehicle is recommended.
Insider tip
Hire a local guide to better understand the history of the colonial capital. Bring insect repellent and plenty of water.
Geography
Facts
- Boma served as the administrative capital of the Congo from 1886 to 1926.
- The city is situated on the lower reaches of the Congo River in Kongo Central.
- A famous baobab tree in Boma was used as a prison cell in the 19th century.
- The Congo's first railway line connected Boma to Matadi starting in 1898.
- Boma was a primary export port for rubber during the early colonial boom.
- The old Governor's Palace is among the oldest colonial-era structures in the DRC.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Boma (Former Capital) (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Was Boma the capital?
Yes, from 1886 to 1926, Boma was the capital of the state.
What is the most famous monument?
The 'Baobab Post', a hollow tree that formerly served as a post office.
Can you visit the old residence?
Yes, the former Governor's residence is an important historical building.
What is the fish market?
A lively spot on the riverbank known for fresh catches.
How do you get to Boma?
Mostly by road from Matadi.
Boma (Former Capital): where is it located?
Boma (Former Capital) is located in Congo - Kinshasa.
Boma (Former Capital): what is there to see?
Highlights include Former residence of the Governor-General, Premier Camp Militaire.
Boma (Former Capital): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Boma (Former Capital): why is it worth visiting?
Boma served as the first capital of the Congo Free State and later the Belgian Congo from 1886 until 1926.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
More places in Congo - Kinshasa →
Nearby cities
Matadi
Matadi is the chief sea port of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the capital of the Kongo Central province.
Boma
Boma is a port city in Kongo Central province, having served as the capital of the Congo Free State and Belgian Congo.
Mbanza-Ngungu
Mbanza-Ngungu is a city in Kongo Central province, formerly known as Thysville, famous for its railway history and caves.
Muanda
Muanda is a coastal town in Kongo Central province, known for its beaches and as the DR Congo's only major seaside community.
🗺️
Inkisi
Inkisi is a town in Kongo Central known for the nearby Zongo Falls.
Kimpese
Kimpese is a significant agricultural and medical center in Kongo Central.
Tshela
Tshela is an important agricultural center in the Bas-Fleuve district.
Kasangulu
Kasangulu is the closest western city to Kinshasa in Kongo Central province.
Lukula
Lukula is a town in Kongo Central known for its forestry and agriculture.
History & landmarks
Boma Cathedral
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de l'Assomption in Boma is one of the oldest and most historic Catholic churches in the country.
Stanley's Baobab
The Baobab de Stanley in Boma is a historic giant tree where the explorer Henry Morton Stanley reportedly camped.
Pont Maréchal
The Pont Maréchal is a suspension bridge over the Congo River at Matadi, providing a vital link for road and rail transport.
St. Joseph's Cathedral, Matadi
The main church of the port city of Matadi, prominently located on a hill.
Inga Dam
The Inga Dams are a series of hydroelectric power stations on the Congo River, among the largest of their kind in the world.
Banana Lighthouse
A historical lighthouse at the mouth of the Congo into the Atlantic near Banana.
🗺️
Lemfu Catholic Mission
A historical mission station with impressive buildings from the colonial era.
Lola ya Bonobo
Located near Kinshasa, this is the world's only sanctuary for orphaned bonobos, offering a rare and heartwarming chance to see these high…
More places
Fort de Shinkakasa
A fort built in Boma in 1891 to defend access to the Congo River against other colonial powers, particularly the Portuguese.
🗺️
Matadi Children's Park
Children's parks in Matadi provide essential recreational space for the youth of the country's main port city.
Rock of Diogo Cão
A historical limestone rock near Matadi where Portuguese navigator Diogo Cão incised inscriptions in 1485 to mark his arrival.
Midema Mill Matadi
The Minoterie de Matadi (Midema) is one of the country's largest wheat mills, securing the flour supply for Kinshasa.
Vivi
Vivi was founded by Henry Morton Stanley in 1879 and was effectively the first administrative center for King Leopold II's interests in t…
Mangroves National Park
Mangroves National Park is a marine and coastal park located at the mouth of the Congo River, protecting vital wetland ecosystems.
🗺️
Tshela Cocoa Estates
A fertile area in Kongo Central known for its high-quality cocoa beans.
Crystal Mountains
A mountain range parallel to the Atlantic coast that forces the Congo River to form rapids.