Congo River: Quick Facts

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Last updated

Oct. 5, 2026

Photos

Physical map of the Congo River basin and its drainage network in Central Africa, showing rivers, major tributaries, elevation gradients, cities, international boundaries, and the approximate boundary of the Ituri Forest. Swamps and flood-prone areas are marked in blue, with symbols indicating waterfalls, rapids, and dams. An inset locator map shows the basin's position within Africa.

Thatched-roof huts of a fishing village stand behind tall palm trees on the bank of a river, surrounded by dense tropical rainforest in Equateur province, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Cluster of small houses in a village nestled among green hills beside the wide Congo River, with more hills visible in the background, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Fishing in the rapids

Congo River: hydroelectric dam at Inga Falls

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