Methods for Observing Gorillas in Congo
An Examination of Gorilla Trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
What is the method to observe gorillas in the Congo? Are you keen to experience the exhilaration of observing gorillas in their natural environment in the Congo? Trek Africa Expeditions provides various Congo Gorilla Safari choices departing from Kigali for those seeking optimal methods to commence their journey. In the DRC, one can observe the magnificent mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park or encounter the elusive lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park.
To engage in gorilla trekking in the DRC, it is imperative to get a gorilla trekking permit well in advance, preferably at least three months prior to your intended visit. The permit is priced at $400 per individual each trek and ensures your chance to hike and view these wonderful creatures in their natural habitat.
Key Activities During the Visit to Congo
Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park: Discover the deep forests of Virunga, which harbor one of the greatest populations of mountain gorillas globally.
Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park: Navigate the challenging landscape to observe the Eastern Lowland Gorillas, recognized for their substantial size.
Ascend the Nyiragongo Volcano: Test your limits by trekking to the summit of this active volcano to witness its molten lava lake.
Exploring Goma City: Discover the dynamic culture and historical significance of Goma, a city situated on the shores of Lake Kivu.
Investigating Lake Kivu: Appreciate the tranquil splendor of this large freshwater lake, which is jointly located between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Locations and Methods for Observing Gorillas in Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo hosts three distinct gorilla species inside multiple national parks.
Mountain gorillas inhabit Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its biodiversity.
Eastern Lowland Gorillas inhabit Kahuzi Biega and Maiko National Parks, providing a distinctive trekking opportunity.
Western Lowland Gorillas: These can be viewed in Lesio Louna National Park in the northern region, accessible via boat trekking.
Concerning Virunga National Park
Virunga National Park, the oldest national park in Africa, is a verdant tropical rainforest abundant in various animals and renowned for mountain gorilla trekking. In addition to gorilla trekking, guests may partake in activities such as hiking the Nyiragongo Volcano, birdwatching, nature walks, and chimpanzee tracking. Virunga constitutes a segment of the Virunga Massif, a territory shared with Uganda and Rwanda, which harbors the world’s last population of mountain gorillas. Gorillas in Uganda inhabit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, whilst those in Rwanda are located in Volcanoes National Park.
Kahuzi Biega National Park Overview
Kahuzi Biega National Park, established in 1970, is a premier place for hiking Eastern Lowland Gorillas, also referred to as Grauer’s gorillas. These gorillas represent the largest of the four subspecies and are exclusively found in this park. The park, situated approximately 30 kilometers from Bukavu, provides a unique experience with 12 gorilla families, of whom only two, the Chimanuka and Mugaruka groups, are habituated for trekking. Chimanuka is renowned for housing one of the largest gorilla families, with more than 36 members.
Expenses Associated with Gorilla Trekking in Congo
Gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a remarkable experience available in both Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park. A gorilla trekking permit is necessary for participation. Trek Africa Expeditions manages all facets of permit acquisition, guaranteeing a seamless planning experience. Given the restricted number of habituated groups, it is advisable to secure your permission a minimum of five months prior.
Lowland Gorilla Trekking Permit (Kahuzi Biega National Park): Non-Residents: USD 400
Residents of East Africa: USD 200 Citizens of Congo: USD 20
Mountain Gorilla Trekking Permit (Virunga National Park): High Season (Mid-December to Mid-March, June to October): USD 400 per individual per trek
Off-Peak Season (Mid-March to Mid-May, Mid-October to Mid-December): USD 200 per individual per trek
Gorilla trekking in Virunga occurs daily, and Trek Africa Expeditions provides all-inclusive travel packages suitable for all budgets, ranging from economical choices to opulent safaris. We provide excursions commencing from Kigali, Rwanda, facilitating seamless access for clients to the DRC. A two-day excursion from Kigali, including gorilla permits, transportation, lodging, food, and guiding services, costs roughly USD 1,100 per individual for a duo.
Optimal Period for Gorilla Trekking in Congo
The tropical climate of Congo guarantees consistent mild temperatures and precipitation year-round. Virunga and Kahuzi Biega National Parks exhibit analogous climatic conditions, rendering it essential to select an appropriate period for your gorilla trekking expedition.
The optimal times to visit Congo for gorilla trekking are the dry seasons. The months of December, January, February, June, July, August, and September provide drier pathways and less foliage density, hence improving gorilla visibility and facilitating hiking. The arid conditions render the routes less treacherous and more navigable.
The wet seasons, occurring from March to May and October to November, present greater challenges. In these months, the flora is verdant, and the trails may be muddy and treacherous, complicating gorilla trekking. Nonetheless, if you seek a more economical alternative, you may contemplate traveling during the rainy season. Gorilla trekking permits are available at a discounted price of $200 per individual during the periods from March 15 to May 15 and October 15 to December 15.
Accommodations for Gorilla Trekking in Congo
Accommodations within Virunga National Park
Virunga National Park has a variety of lodging alternatives to accommodate diverse financial plans:
Budget Options: Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp offer comfortable accommodations with rates between $90 and $100 per night per person.
Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp provide enhanced amenities, with prices ranging from $100 to $200 per night per person.
Mikeno Lodge offers a premium experience with costs between $200 and $400 per night per individual.
Kindly inform us of your preferences, and we will verify availability and arrange reservations accordingly.
Accommodations within Kahuzi Biega National Park
Kahuzi Biega National Park provides a range of accommodation choices:
Budget Alternatives: Accommodations like Hotel Begonias Bukavu, Exodus Bukavu, and Lake Side Hotel Bukavu have lodging options priced between $90 and $100 per night per individual.
Coco Lodge Bukavu offers a nice mid-range experience with costs ranging from $100 to $200 per night per person.
L’Orchids Safari Club provides upscale lodging with prices between $200 and $400 per night per individual.
Please inform us of your lodging preferences, and we will secure the optimal alternative for you.
Directions to Congo for Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking in Congo entails visiting either Kahuzi Biega National Park or Virunga National Park, both situated in the eastern region of the country. The most efficient method to reach these parks is by traveling into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From Kigali, you will proceed to Gisenyi, a town adjacent to the Rwanda-Congo border. Upon crossing the border into Goma, DR Congo, you will travel for roughly two hours to arrive at the park headquarters of either Kahuzi Biega or Virunga National Park, where your gorilla trek will commence.
We specialize in arranging safaris in renowned African locales, such as Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia. Reach out to us for further information regarding the reservation of a gorilla safari in Congo and to discover the remarkable experiences we provide.
