Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Gorilla Trekking in Congo: An Unforgettable Adventure

Are you dreaming of a gorilla trekking adventure in the Democratic Republic of Congo? Renowned for its breathtaking wildlife, Congo is considered one of Africa’s premier destinations for gorilla trekking. The country is home to both Eastern Lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park and Mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

Understanding Safety Concerns

While DR Congo has faced challenges, including civil unrest and health crises like the Ebola outbreak, the situation has significantly improved in recent years. Many areas, including the national parks, are now safe and open for tourism. The Congolese government, local authorities, and international organizations have worked diligently to restore peace and stability. Today, more travelers are choosing Congo for gorilla trekking, drawn by the more affordable permits compared to Uganda and Rwanda.

Popular Gorilla Trekking Trips in Congo

• 6-Day Gorillas & Nyiragongo Hike: Experience the thrill of gorilla trekking along with an exhilarating hike up Nyiragongo Volcano.
• 6-Day Lowland and Mountain Gorilla Trekking: Immerse yourself in the beauty of both gorilla species during this comprehensive trek.

Where to Trek in Congo

Gorilla trekking in Congo primarily occurs in two national parks:

Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. It’s renowned for mountain gorilla trekking, but visitors can also enjoy activities like Nyiragongo volcano hikes, bird watching, nature walks, and chimpanzee tracking. The mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park are part of a small population shared with Uganda and Rwanda, making this a must-visit location for wildlife enthusiasts.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Established in 1970, Kahuzi-Biega National Park is home to the Eastern Lowland gorillas, also known as Grauer’s gorillas. This park is particularly special, as it is one of the few places in the world where you can see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Located about 30 kilometers from Bukavu, Kahuzi-Biega offers a unique trekking experience. The park houses 12 gorilla families, but only two—Chimanuka and Mugaruka—are habituated and open for trekking. Chimanuka, in particular, is famous for its large family, boasting over 36 members.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs

To trek gorillas in Congo, you will need a gorilla trekking permit, similar to the requirements in Uganda and Rwanda. Here’s what you need to know:

• Kahuzi-Biega National Park: The permit fee is considerably lower than in neighboring countries, making it an attractive option for travelers.
• Virunga National Park: Similarly, the permit pricing here is competitive, providing excellent value for an incredible experience.

It’s essential to book your gorilla permits well in advance—ideally five months before your trip. Excursia Adventures can assist you with all the necessary arrangements, including checking permit availability, making bookings, and organizing your entire gorilla safari. We recommend securing your permit as soon as possible, as there are only two groups available for trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices in Congo

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Kahuzi Beiga National Park varies based on residency status:

• Non-Residents: USD 400
• East African Residents: USD 200
• Congolese Citizens: USD 20

In Virunga National Park, the permit price follows a similar structure. The high season, which runs from mid-December to mid-March and June to October, features a permit cost of USD 400 per person. The low season, from mid-March to mid-May and mid-October to mid-December, offers a reduced rate of USD 200.

At Excursia Adventures, we provide all-inclusive gorilla tour packages, ensuring there are no hidden costs. The gorilla permit is the most critical expense, allowing you access to the gorillas during your trek. We offer a variety of packages, from budget-friendly to luxury safaris, tailored to your preferences. For example, our 2-day gorilla safari from Kigali starts at just USD 1,100 per person in a group of two, inclusive of permits, transportation, accommodation, meals, and guide services.

When is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Congo?

Congo experiences a tropical climate, with both Kahuzi Beiga and Virunga National Parks sharing similar weather patterns. While rain can occur at any time, the ideal months for gorilla trekking are during the dry season: December, January, February, June, July, August, and September. These months provide drier trails, making it easier to navigate the parks, and the vegetation is less dense, enhancing your chances of spotting gorillas.

If you plan to trek during the wet season (mid-March to mid-May and mid-October to mid-December), take advantage of the special offer: the gorilla permit costs only USD 200 per person during these months.

Accommodation Options for Gorilla Trekking

In Virunga National Park:

• Budget: Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp (USD 90-100 per night)
• Mid-Range: Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp (USD 100-200 per night)
• Luxury: Mikeno Lodge (USD 200-400 per night)

In Kahuzi Beiga National Park:

• Budget: Hotel Begonias Bukavu, Exodus Bukavu, Lake Side Hotel Bukavu (USD 90-100 per night)
• Mid-Range: Coco Lodge Bukavu (USD 100-200 per night)
• Luxury: L’Orchids Safari Club (USD 200-400 per night)

Let us know your preferred accommodation style, and we’ll check availability and handle your bookings.

How to Access Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in both Kahuzi Beiga and Virunga National Parks begins in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The journey starts with a flight to Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From there, you can take a trip to Gisenyi, cross the Rwanda-Congo border into Goma, and then drive approximately two hours to the park headquarters where your trekking adventure will begin.

Why Choose Excursia Adventures for Your Gorilla Trekking Experience

At Excursia Adventures, we specialize in creating remarkable gorilla safari experiences across Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. We pride ourselves on our high ratings and reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor. Our tours are designed to be eco-friendly and unforgettable, combining gorilla trekking with a variety of other adventures, including:

• Chimpanzee trekking
• Big Five safaris and game viewing
• Mountain hiking
• Boat cruises and excursions
• Cultural encounters

We are dedicated to preserving biodiversity, conserving wildlife, and uplifting local communities while providing you with the best possible African safari experience.

Ready to embark on your gorilla trekking adventure in Congo? Contact us today to start planning your trip!