Discovering the Most Cost-Effective Location to View Gorillas
Are you an ardent traveler who is eager to observe the majestic gorillas during your trip to Africa? Are you conducting an exhaustive search on the internet to identify the most cost-effective location to observe these magnificent creatures up close? The captivating landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Beinga National Park in Congo, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda are the destinations you encounter on your quest for the Cheapest Place to see Gorillas. Furthermore, it is possible for gorilla aficionados to investigate additional regions, including the Central African Republic and Gabon.
Budget-Friendly Gorilla Haven: Congo
Congo is the preferred destination for chimpanzee encounters that are cost-effective. A gorilla permit in Congo is remarkably affordable, with a price of USD 400 per person per trek during the peak season (Mid-December to Mid-March and June to October) and a reduced rate of USD 200 during the low season (Mid-March to Mid-May and Mid-October to Mid-December annually).
In Congo, mountain gorilla trekking is exclusively conducted in Virunga National Park, which is renowned for being one of the most diverse tropical rainforests in Africa. In addition to gorilla trekking, the park provides a variety of activities, such as Nyiragongo volcano hikes, bird viewing, nature walks, chimpanzee tracking, and habituation experiences. It is crucial to recognize that mountain gorillas are restricted to only three countries on a global scale: Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uganda. Rwanda’s gorillas are located in Volcanoes National Park, Uganda’s in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Congo’s gorillas call Virunga National Park home. The Virunga massif is formed by these parks, which are situated in close proximity.
Ten habituated gorilla families are situated within Virunga National Park, and they are accessible for tourism and monitoring. Recent estimates indicate that the gorilla population in the region exceeds 100, with an estimated seven offspring.
Costs of Congo Gorilla Trekking Permits
Exploring Virunga National Park necessitates obtaining a gorilla expedition permit. The permit booking procedure is simplified by Trek Africa Expeditions, a reputable tour operator. Booking several months in advance, preferable five months or more, is advised for a stress-free experience. Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park is priced at USD 400 per person per trek during the peak season, and USD 200 per person per trek during the low season from Mid-March to May and Mid-October to Mid-December.
The optimal period for gorilla trekking in the Congo is as follows:
Congo, which is located in the tropics, experiences a tropical climate year-round, as does Virunga National Park. Gorilla trekking is most suitable during the dry season, which encompasses December, January, February, June, July, August, and September. The vegetation is less dense, which enhances gorilla sightings, and the trails are drier during these months, facilitating simpler walks. Due to the dense vegetation and muddy trails, the months of March, April, May, October, and November are less desirable.
Special offers are available during the low season for those who are interested in the most cost-effective gorilla trekking experience in Virunga National Park. The annual permit fee is reduced to USD 200 per person per expedition from Mid-March to May and Mid-October to Mid-December.
Accommodation Options in Virunga National Park
Accommodations in Virunga National Park are designed to accommodate a wide variety of preferences, including budget, mid-range, and luxury. Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp are budget-friendly options that cost 90-100 dollars per individual per night. Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp are mid-range options that cost between $100 and $200 per night per individual. Mikeno Lodge is a prime example of luxury accommodations, which range from $200 to $400 per night per individual, all on a full-board basis. Travelers have the freedom to choose the option that is most compatible with their preferences.
Logistics of Transportation to Virunga National Park
To access Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, one must first fly to Kigali International Airport, then connect to Gisenyi town, cross the Rwanda-Congo border to Goma town in DR Congo, and lastly drive to the park headquarters of Virunga National Park. 4×4 vehicles are utilized to traverse the approximately two-hour journey from Gisenyi town. The cost of transportation depends on the number of individuals sharing the transport, and it includes vehicle rental per day (USD 80-150), driver-guide allowance (USD 50 per day), and fuel for the round journey.
Contributing to biodiversity conservation, wildlife preservation, and community upliftment, the organization seamlessly incorporates gorilla trekking with eco-friendly adventures and wildlife safaris. Big 5 excursions, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural encounters. Tour packages are customized to meet the unique needs of each traveler, guaranteeing an unforgettable and authentic experience, regardless of whether they are budget or luxury excursions.
