Gorilla Trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo offers a unique and fascinating opportunity to encounter Mountain Gorillas in Their Natural Habitat. Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park are the Main Destinations for Gorilla Trekking in this country offering a different experience, in the whole world only three African countries Gorillas can be found in Congo where lowland and Mountain Gorillas can be trekked, and be found among the other countries.
Virunga National Park is located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo and is said to be East Africa’s Oldest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its diverse landscapes from volcanic mountains to savannas and dense forests. Virunga is home to 8 Habituated Gorilla groups including Lulengo, Humba, Rugendo, Bageni, and Kabirizi among others all open for Trekking all year around.
The Park’s varied terrain adds to the adventure of gorilla trekking with treks often involving hiking through lush forests and up the volcanic slopes. Virunga is home to around a quarter of the world’s remaining Gorillas, offering opportunities to observe these endangered animals up close.
Kahuzi Biega National Park is located south in the Democratic Republic of Congo and renowned for its eastern lowlands gorillas this is the only place in East Africa where Lowland Gorillas Can be found, The Park is also known as sliver black Gorillas. This Park offers a distinct Gorilla Trekking experience compared to Virunga Mountain Gorillas. The Park’s Location in the Albertine Rift adds to its biodiversity with lush forests and unique Flora and Fauna.
Kahuzi Biega National Park is one of the few places where visitors can trek to see eastern Lowlands Gorillas which are larger in Size and have different behaviors compared to Mountain Gorillas. The park has about 5 habituated mountain gorilla families such as the Mpungwe, Mugaruka, Chimanuka, Nganwa, and Bonnani families.
Just like Virunga National Park, Kahuzi Biega National Park faces conservation challenges such as poaching, and habitat loss but regardless they offer a rewarding experience of Gorilla Trekking.
Gorilla Trekking Permits are required for both Virunga and Kahuzi Biega National Park and they are booked in advance through local trusted tour Operators or Congo’s National Park Authorities. However, it’s important to note that due to political and security concerns in the Democratic Republic of Congo, it’s very essential to stay updated with your Travel Advisories and consider visiting with a reputable tour operator who prioritizes safety.
For Accessibility, access to Virunga and Kahuzi Biega can Vary depending on Local conditions, but both Parks can generally be reached by Road from Major cities like Goma for those traveling to Virunga National Park and Bukavu for the ones going to Kahuzi Biega National Park.
Gorilla Trekking in The Democratic Republic of Congo offers a Unique and adventurous experience for travelers interested in encountering Gorillas in their Natural Habitat, so whether exploring the volcanic landscapes of Virunga or the dense forests of Kahuzi Biega visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and biodiversity of these Iconic and Magnificent African Giants.
Democratic Republic of Congo offers the most affordable gorilla trekking permits compared to Uganda and Rwanda. In Congo, A gorilla trekking permit costs $400 to all tourists per person and $200 USD for Congo’s citizens per person. Gorilla trekking in Congo favors travelers on a budget who would want to encounter gorilla trekking in all seasons because it has the cheapest gorilla permit compared to the rest of the two countries mentioned above.
