Kinshasa Zoo

The Kinshasa Zoo, officially known as the Jardin Zoologique de Kinshasa, is one of the oldest recreational institutions in the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Established in 1933 during the Belgian colonial era, it is located in the Gombe district, providing a rare green space in the heart of the bustling metropolis. In its early years, the zoo boasted an extensive collection of African wildlife, including lions, elephants, and various primates. However, decades of economic hardship and regional instability led to a significant decline in infrastructure and animal populations. Currently, there are ongoing efforts by the government and conservation groups to renovate the facilities and restore the zoo to its former status as an educational hub. Despite these challenges, the zoo remains a popular destination for local families and serves as a historical monument reflecting the city's early 20th-century urban planning. It also functions as a temporary rescue center for animals recovered from illegal trafficking in the capital.

Nearby cities

Kinshasa

Kinshasa is the capital and largest city of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, located on the Congo River.

Maluku

Maluku is a large commune in the eastern part of Kinshasa, serving as a key industrial and port area on the Congo River.

History & landmarks

Kinshasa City Hall

The administrative center of the capital, a prominent building in the Gombe district.

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Mausoleum of Laurent-Désiré Kabila

The Mausolee Kabila is the final resting place of former President Laurent-Désiré Kabila, located in the heart of Kinshasa.

Central Bank of Congo

The monumental building of the Central Bank, a symbol of the country's financial power.

Kinshasa Central Station

The Gare Centrale is the main railway station in Kinshasa, serving as the terminus for the line connecting the capital to Matadi.

Hotel Memling

One of the most famous and traditional hotels in Kinshasa, a landmark of the city.

Government Building (Kinshasa)

A modern office complex in Kinshasa housing numerous ministries.

Église Sainte-Anne

The Eglise Sainte-Anne is a historic Catholic church in Kinshasa, known for its distinct architectural style and long service to the comm…

Cathédrale Notre-Dame du Congo

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame du Congo is the principal Roman Catholic cathedral in Kinshasa and the seat of the local Archbishop.

More places

Kinshasa Botanical Garden

A green oasis in the heart of Kinshasa with an impressive collection of tropical plants and trees.

Marsavco Plant

Marsavco is a major industrial company in Kinshasa producing soaps, edible oils, and margarine for the national market.

Kinshasa Children's Park

Children's parks in Kinshasa provide vibrant spaces for recreation and family gatherings in the heart of the capital.

Kinshasa River Port

A bustling river port connecting the interior with the capital via the Congo River.

Palais de la Nation

The Palais de la Nation in Kinshasa is the site where the independence of the Congo from Belgium was officially proclaimed in 1960.

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Bralima Brewery Kinshasa

One of the largest and oldest breweries in Congo, maker of the famous Primus beer.

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Kintambo (Léopoldville-Est)

Kintambo was the original site of the Léopoldville station, founded in 1881 by Henry Morton Stanley at the Ngaliema Bay.

Lovanium University

Founded in 1954 near Kinshasa, Lovanium was the first university in the Belgian Congo and housed Africa's first nuclear reactor (TRICO I).