Boyoma Falls

Boyoma Falls are seven cataracts strung along about 100 kilometres of the Lualaba River, ending at Kisangani, where the river becomes the Congo. By the volume of water passing over them, they are the largest falls in the world.

Why visit Boyoma Falls

At the last cataract, Wagenia fishermen have for generations fished from tall wooden tripods anchored in the rapids, lowering conical basket traps into the current. It is one of the great sights of Central Africa.

Best time to visit Boyoma Falls

Flow is high all year; it peaks after the September–December rains.

How to get to Boyoma Falls

Kisangani is reached by air from Kinshasa or Goma. Travel in the region needs careful planning and an experienced local partner.

What to see

Boyoma Falls, formerly Stanley Falls, is a chain of seven cataracts along about 100 kilometres of the Lualaba River, where it becomes the Congo River near Kisangani. The total drop is about 60 metres, but the volume of water is among the greatest of any falls in the world. At the last cataract, Wagenia fishermen build wooden tripods in the rapids to lower basket traps into the current, a tradition passed down for generations.

Practical information

Kisangani is reached by air from Kinshasa or Goma. Visits to the Wagenia fisheries are arranged locally, and a fee is usually paid to the community. Security conditions in the DRC vary by region and change quickly, so always check your government's current travel advice and travel with an experienced local partner.

Pair Boyoma Falls with a safari

For the most adventurous travellers; ask us about tailor-made Congo journeys.

Tips for visiting Boyoma Falls

Visit the Wagenia fishermen at the last cataract with a local guide, and travel only with a trusted operator who can advise on current conditions. For planning, see our DR Congo guide and the month-by-month water levels, or compare it with Africa's two most visited falls, Victoria Falls and Murchison Falls.

National parks and sights nearby

• Congo River
• Yangambi Biosphere Reserve