Nganda Yalha is a recreational site on the banks of the Nsele River, in the commune of Nsele. It is one of the few places around Kinshasa that combines river swimming, dugout canoe trips, a well-regarded kitchen and private thatched huts — with a capacity of over 300 people. At 38 km from the centre, it is an hour's drive well worth making.
What you'll find
Private thatched huts on the riverbank for groups and families, at $5 per person. Dugout canoe excursions ($3,000 FC/person/15 min) and boat trips ($4,000 FC/person/20 min) on the river. Swimming is possible in designated areas. A restaurant with Congolese cooking that has a strong reputation in the area — one of the best among Nsele's recreation sites according to regulars. Accommodation is available on site: a two-bedroom pavilion at $130/night.
When to go
Open every day. Monday to Saturday 08:30 to 18:00, Sunday until 19:30. The dry season (May to October) is best for swimming and canoe trips.
Budget for a day
Return transport with Kino Congo: $125 for a car up to 6 people, roughly $21 per person in a group. Thatched hut: $5/person. Canoe: 3,000 FC/person/15 min (~$1.05). Accommodation: $130/night (two-bedroom pavilion).
Combine with
Jardin d'Eden is just nearby on the same avenue — a hotel, restaurant and 16-hectare island on the Nsele. La Sablière in Mombele (jet skis, pool, river) is in the same commune of Nsele.
