Kinshasa N’djili Layover Guide (FIH)

What are you looking for in FIH?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Kinshasa Airport (FIH) is an international airport located in N’djili, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. It’s located about 20 km (12.5 miles) southeast of downtown Kinshasa. The airport was inaugurated in 1959. Kinshasa is the largest city in the DRC and one of Africa’s major urban centers, known for its vibrant music scene, bustling riverfront markets, colonial architecture, and its position on the banks of the mighty Congo River.

Can you leave Kinshasa Airport (FIH) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
You can leave Newcastle Airport during a layover if you clear UK immigration. Most travellers require a Standard Visitor visa or qualify for visa-free entry under the UK’s visitor rules. Airside transit without a visa is only permitted for eligible nationalities with onward journeys. Always check visa requirements before travelling (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Musée National de Kinshasa Explore the National Museum’s rich Congo cultural heritage, displaying traditional art, historical artifacts, and ethnographic exhibits. Engage with knowledgeable guides offering insights into precolonial kingdoms and modern Congolese creativity. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 km/45 min))
• Marché Central Stroll through Marché Central’s vibrant stalls filled with colorful fabrics, fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local spices. Immerse in Kinshasa’s bustling atmosphere while sampling street food delicacies, kebabs and roasted plantains. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 km/50 min))
• Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary Visit Lola ya Bonobo, a sanctuary rehabilitating orphaned bonobos in a lush forest environment. Guided tours reveal conservation efforts, allowing you to observe these gentle primates up close while supporting vital animal welfare programs. (Time required: 3 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~35 km/60 min))
• Mont Ngaliema Climb Mont Ngaliema’s scenic trails for panoramic views over Kinshasa and the Congo River. Enjoy cooler temperatures, birdwatching opportunities, and a serene escape from the city’s bustle amid shaded forested paths. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 km/40 min))
• Congo River Boat Cruise Embark on a Congo River boat cruise at sunset, gliding past bustling riverbanks and tranquil waterways. Spot waterbirds, local fishermen, and riverine villages while enjoying refreshing drinks and traditional live music onboard. (Time required: 1½ hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 km/45 min))
• Cathedrale Notre-Dame du Congo Admire Cathedrale Notre-Dame du Congo’s stunning Gothic-Byzantine architecture and intricate stained-glass windows. Reflect in the peaceful nave, learn about its historical significance, and attend vibrant Sunday mass to witness local devotional practices. (Time required: 30 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 km/45 min))
• Ma Vallée Beach Relax at Ma Vallée Beach on Lac du Congo’s banks, enjoying sandy shores and gentle waves. Snack on fresh grilled fish from nearby vendors, swim safely in designated zones, and watch colorful canoes drift by. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~28 km/50 min))
• Independence Monument Visit the Independence Monument in Place de l’Indépendance, commemorating Congo’s freedom with grand columns and symbolic sculptures. Learn about independence history, take striking photos, and enjoy the vibrant nearby marketplaces. (Time required: 30 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 km/45 min))

Things to Do in Kinshasa Airport (FIH)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Kinshasa Airport offers limited lounge facilities operated by select airlines and independent providers. Lounges feature air-conditioned seating, refreshments, flight information displays. Access is often available via business class tickets or paid day passes. Complimentary Wi-Fi varies by lounge, and opening hours align with peak flight schedules to ensure passenger comfort. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Several hotels near Kinshasa Airport offer comfortable accommodations within minutes of the terminal, including international chains, local lodgings. Guests enjoy air-conditioned rooms, on-site restaurants, and airport shuttle services. Rates are competitive, with options for budget and premium travelers. Advance booking is recommended due to limited availability during peak travel seasons. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Kinshasa Airport provides rest areas within the departure and arrival zones, featuring rows of chairs and bench seating. Sleeping pods are unavailable, but travelers may rest on terminal seating. Noise and lighting can be minimal during night operations. For extended layovers, consider nearby airport hotels for more comfortable sleep arrangements.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout Kinshasa Airport, provided by the operator. Connection speed may fluctuate, especially during peak hours. Users must register with a valid email or social media account to access a limited data allowance, after which paid top-up options are offered at airport kiosks and via mobile apps.

SIM/eSIM Card: Travelers can purchase local SIM and eSIM cards at kiosks and mobile operator stands within the arrivals hall at Kinshasa Airport. Major networks offer data, voice, and SMS packages with competitive rates. Simple registration requires passport identification. Activation is often immediate, ensuring connectivity for calls and internet throughout the city. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Airport taxis are available 24/7 outside the arrivals terminal at Kinshasa Airport. Fares are fixed by zone and displayed on posted rate cards. Drivers accept cash in local currency; credit cards are rarely accepted. Licensed vehicles offer air conditioning, radio communication. Always confirm the fare before boarding to avoid surprises.

Train: Kinshasa Airport has no direct train link. The nearest rail services operate from the central station in Gombe, reachable by taxi. The Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer du Congo (SNCC) manages routes nationwide. Trains offer seating and views but may experience delays and limited schedules (more info).

Bus: Kinshasa Airport is served by local bus operators and minibuses departing from the transport area outside arrivals. Buses offer affordable travel to central Kinshasa but can be crowded and lack air conditioning. Tickets are cash only. Routes and schedules vary daily, so verify departure times locally (more info).

Shuttle: Some hotels and tour operators provide airport shuttle services at Kinshasa Airport. Pre-arranged shuttles offer door-to-door transfers in air-conditioned vans, accommodating groups and luggage. Booking in advance is advised to secure seats and confirm pickup times. Rates vary by distance and operator; shared and private options are available for flexibility.

Car rentals: Multiple car rental agencies operate desks at Kinshasa Airport arrivals hall, offering cars to SUVs. Drivers must present an international or Congolese driver’s license, passport, and credit card for deposit. Insurance packages can be purchased on-site. Vehicles are subject to availability, so reserve in advance for best selection and rates. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Kinshasa Airport provides short-term and long-term parking areas adjacent to the terminal. Rates are charged hourly and daily, with discounts for extended stays. Parking lots are unsecured and monitored by CCTV. Shuttle buses are not offered; the walking distance to terminals is minimal. Payment is cash only at exit booths.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Temporary luggage storage services are available in the main terminal at Kinshasa Airport, operated by private vendors. Fees are charged per bag and per day. Lockers are not available; instead, staff securely tag and store items in a guarded area. Retrieval requires presentation of a receipt and identification upon collection. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Kinshasa Airport (FIH) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks