Bicyclist Information for DRC/CAR from East

[tiredofit]

Hi All - First timer here, just joined today, but I've been on the road now since 2009 starting in Canada. I am in Nairobi right now resting and getting ready to head west into Uganda, with the intention of making it into DRC, CAR, Cameroon. I've gone through the forums here for the past few weeks with great interest before joining and found that the most recent information for border crossings is here, so thanks! I don't really know what I'm getting myself into, and I sort of like that, but do need to understand a few things.

I've heard conflicting reports of people getting turned away at borders even if they have gotten a visa (say in Uganda) if they have a DRC embassy in their home country, forcing an application from a far. I'd like to keep my passport with me as close as possible, and Canada is pretty far away Can anyone report information of success crossings from either Uganda, Rwanda or Burundi?

Out of those 3, which one do you think would be the best to cross over from in terms of success/safety? I was thinking Burundi, but there is a Visa to be applied for as well while in Rwanda. Going too much further south is not ideal for me.

Finally, I'm sure I'll be fine in DRC once past the border, but also want to get out somehow, and CAR seems to be reasonable, that or Brazzaville. Any success stories of getting Visas from within DRC (As I'm not sure where the closest embassy for CAR is, Uganda?) Will do additional research tonight.

I appreciate the help. I know things can change over night, but I will stay active as best as I can as time moves forward and I get closer to attempting to cross (1 month? +)

Dave
Tired of I.T! - Pedaling around the world away from a job in computers

[mark manley]

Hi Dave and welcome,
It sounds like and epic adventure you are having, good luck finding the information you want, if it is anywhere it will be here.
Nice looking bike which was built not far from me here in the SW of England, I have a very similar spec Roberts Roughstuff with a Rohloff hub and love it, a great expedition bike, although I have not been quite as adventurous as you on it.
Good luck and keep us posted.
Mark

[levelo]

Hey man. I am also cycling, currently in Ghana, and heading your way to Kenya or Tanzania. Can't really help you with the visa search but the situation is currently VERY dicey in both CAR and Eastern Congo. Do your homework before you set off... Good luck and keep us posted, L.