population: 1.06 million

extension: 285.53 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Butembo, a city in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, there are not many museums in the area. However, the closest museum to Butembo is the Musée de Beni, which is located about 1.5 hours away by car. It features cultural and historical exhibits related to the local region. If you're willing to travel further, you can also visit the Musée National de Lubumbashi or the Royal Museum for Central Africa in Kinshasa, both of which have extensive collections of Congolese art and history.

Food

In Butembo and the surrounding area, some of the most recommended and popular local dishes include:

1. Chikwanga: A starchy dish made from cassava flour and wrapped in banana leaves, then boiled until it's soft and fluffy.

2. Matoke: A dish made from mashed plantains, usually served with meat or fish.

3. Mishkaki: Skewered meat (usually beef or goat) marinated in spices and grilled over an open flame.

4. Fish stew: Fresh fish cooked in a tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, and spices.

5. Fufu: A starchy dish made from cassava or yam flour, which is pounded into a dough-like consistency and typically served with soup or stew.

6. Pondu: A stew made from cassava leaves, often served with rice or fufu.

7. Sambusa: A fried pastry filled with spiced meat or vegetables.

Keep in mind that the availability of these dishes can vary depending on the season and local ingredients.

Activities

In Butembo, some fun activities that local people enjoy include:

1. Visiting the local markets, such as the Tamani market, to shop for fresh produce and traditional crafts.
2. Exploring the nearby Virunga National Park, which is home to gorillas, chimpanzees, and other wildlife.
3. Attending a football (soccer) match at Stade Kanyamuhanga or Stade Amani.
4. Joining a guided tour of the city's historic sites, such as the Kasindi Bridge and the Beni Massacre Memorial.
5. Sampling local cuisine, such as fufu and mbisi (chicken stew), at restaurants like Chez Maman or Chez Shamavu.
6. Relaxing at one of the city's parks, such as the Jardin Botanique de l'Unikis or the Parc des Volcans.
7. Learning about traditional Congolese culture through performances of dance, music, and storytelling at cultural centers like the Centre Culturel de Butembo.