Nkamba

Nkamba is the centre of the Kimbanguist Church, founded on the ministry of Simon Kimbangu, who was born in the village and began preaching there in 1921. The church now numbers in the millions across central Africa, and Nkamba, known to members as New Jerusalem, is its holy city: a large temple, the founder's mausoleum, a spring whose water members regard as blessed, and accommodation for pilgrims. Visitors are received but the rules are firm, including on dress, footwear and conduct.

What you actually see

• The temple - a large church building at the centre of the settlement.
• The mausoleum - the tomb of the church's founder, the focus of pilgrimage.
• The spring - water taken by members as blessed, at the edge of the settlement.
• The pilgrim quarters - accommodation and facilities built for visiting congregations.

When to go

May to September is the dry season and easiest for the roads. Major church anniversaries bring very large gatherings, particularly in the spring. Visits are arranged with the church rather than made unannounced.

Honest expectations

This is an active religious centre with its own rules, and they are applied: shoes are removed at the boundary, dress is expected to be modest, and smoking and alcohol are not permitted. Photography is restricted. Arrangements should be made in advance through the church.

Nearby

Mbanza-Ngungu is northeast, and Matadi is west towards the coast.