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Celestial Army: A Glimpse of the Tata Gonda in the Democratic Republic of Congo

14/01/2026
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During our Congo, DRC & Cabinda group tour, we make a special stop deep in the forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo: the Tata Gonda, also known as the Celestial Army. This is a community that lives almost entirely separate from the modern world. Their life revolves around faith, ritual, and isolation. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

The community was founded by the Congolese prophet Tata Gonda Wasilua. Although he passed away many years ago, his followers still follow his teachings. What makes them unique is that they live completely outside modern society: no electricity, no internet, just nature, silence, and their rituals.

What makes this so special?

The Tata Gonda have consciously chosen a secluded life. Their villages lie deep in the forest and can only be reached through long treks with a local guide. During our tour, we make this journey together, and by walking through the natural surroundings, you immediately feel how different life is here. Their daily rhythm is guided by prayer, work, and community.

Their rituals are also unique: they use ash for purification. Prayer plays a central role, forming a constant rhythm throughout their days and nights. Everyone in the village contributes, from farming to cooking and building. Isolation is seen as protection from the outside world.

Daily life in the village

Life in the Tata Gonda village is simple but strict:

  • Prayer: several times a day, sometimes for hours.
  • Working together: everyone helps with farming, cooking, and building.
  • Simple living: houses and clothing are basic, personal possessions are minimal.
  • Passing on knowledge: elders teach the younger generations about Tata Gonda and his teachings.

Visitors immediately feel that time slows down here. Silence, simplicity, and a focus on faith define village life. It’s a world barely touched by modern times.

Experience it for yourself on the tour

On our Congo, DRC & Cabinda group tour, you’ll have the chance to discover this unique part of Congo for yourself. You will walk  through the village, observe their rituals, and experience their way of life up close.

It’s a meeting that stays with you: the rhythm of their prayers, the silence of the forest, the simplicity of their lives. Truly a unique experience that will stay with you for a long time.

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