Kahuzi Biega National Park, Congo

Kahuzi Biega National Park, Congo – A Gateway to Lowland Gorilla Trekking

Kahuzi Biega National Park, located in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning biodiversity and is most famous for housing the Eastern Lowland Gorillas. These gentle giants, also known as Grauer’s gorillas, are the largest of the four gorilla subspecies and offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

About the Eastern Lowland Gorillas

Kahuzi Beiga is home to 12 gorilla families, but only two of them, Chimanuka and Mugaruka, have been habituated for trekking and filming. The Chimanuka family is particularly famous for being one of the largest gorilla families in the world, with over 36 individuals. These gorillas are known for their calm and approachable nature, making them a favorite for visitors and filmmakers alike.

When to Visit Kahuzi Biega National Park for Gorilla Trekking

Lowland Gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega is a highly sought-after experience, with permits being scarce, especially during peak seasons like June, July, August, September, December, and February. Due to the limited number of families open for trekking, it’s recommended to secure your permits 3 to 4 months in advance to ensure availability.

How to Plan Your Safari Trip to Kahuzi Biega National Park

If you’re considering a gorilla trek to Kahuzi Biega, Excursia Adventures is here to handle every detail of your trip. Based in Uganda, we specialize in organizing seamless safari experiences to Kahuzi Biega National Park. From securing your gorilla trekking permits to arranging comfortable transport, accommodation, and guiding services, we take care of everything.

Our fleet of 4×4 vehicles is stationed in Kigali and Uganda, ready to take you on a scenic drive to Kahuzi Biega. Whether you’re traveling from Kigali or Uganda, our expert driver-guides ensure a safe and smooth journey to the park.

Cost of Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park

The cost of trekking the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park is largely determined by the permit fee. Below are the permit prices for non-residents:

• Non-Residents: USD 400
• East African Residents: USD 200
• Congo Nationals: USD 20

Please note that due to the limited availability of trekking families, it’s essential to book your permit well in advance.

How to Secure Your Gorilla Trekking Permits for Kahuzi Biega

Once you confirm your trip with Excursia Adventures, we will take care of securing your permits for Kahuzi Biega National Park. After receiving payment for your gorilla permit, we will arrange everything, including sending you a receipt to confirm your booking. You can then proceed to book your international flights and pay the balance for your safari services.

Safari Activities to Do in Congo: Explore the Heart of Africa

Congo offers some of Africa’s most unique and thrilling safari experiences. From tracking the rare mountain gorillas to hiking active volcanoes, there’s a wide range of activities to suit every adventure seeker. Here are some of the must-do experiences you can enjoy during your visit to the Congo’s beautiful national parks.

1. Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Mountain gorilla trekking is one of the top activities in Virunga National Park, where you can get up close to these incredible primates in their natural habitat. Virunga is home to a limited number of gorilla families, with only six groups available for trekking. These include the famous Kabirizi, Rugendo, and Mapuwa families, with Kabirizi being the most popular due to its large size of over 30 gorillas. If you’re interested in trekking with the Kabirizi group, it’s essential to book your permit at least 3 months in advance, as spaces are highly sought after.

2. Chimpanzee Tracking and Habituation in Virunga

In addition to gorillas, Virunga National Park is also known for its chimpanzee population. You can choose between chimpanzee tracking or the more immersive chimpanzee habituation experience. During a tracking session, you’ll spend about one hour observing the chimps, while the habituation experience offers an entire day, allowing you to follow the chimpanzees through their daily routines—feeding, playing, and nesting. As with gorilla trekking, permits for chimpanzee tracking and habituation should be booked well in advance, ideally 3 months ahead.

3. Nature Walks Through Virunga’s Dense Forests

Virunga National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforests. A nature walk through its dense vegetation is a great way to explore its beauty and learn about the various tree species, birds, and animals that inhabit the park. As you wander through the forest, you may even spot some reptiles or smaller mammals, adding to the adventure. The stunning landscapes and quiet, peaceful atmosphere make for a truly unforgettable experience.

4. Hike the Nyiragongo Volcano

For an adventure of a lifetime, consider hiking the Nyiragongo Volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Standing at 3,470 meters (11,380 feet), Nyiragongo is famous for its active lava lake, which offers a unique opportunity to witness a volcanic eruption up close. This challenging hike rewards visitors with breathtaking views and the chance to see molten lava at the summit. A must-do for thrill-seekers!

5. Bird Watching in Virunga National Park

Virunga’s diverse landscapes, ranging from lush forests to grasslands and swamps, make it a haven for birdwatchers. With over 706 recorded bird species, the park offers ample opportunities to spot a variety of colorful and rare birds. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just enjoy the beauty of wildlife, Virunga’s birding tours are an incredible way to discover its natural treasures.

When is the Best Time to Visit Kahuzi Biega National Park, Congo?

Kahuzi Biega National Park, located in the tropical rainforest, can be visited year-round, though the best time to visit is during the dry season from December to February and June to September. During these months, the trails are drier, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot gorillas. Avoid visiting during the rainy months (March-May, October-November), as the trails become slippery, and the vegetation is more challenging to navigate.

Where to Stay in Kahuzi Biega National Park

Accommodation options near Kahuzi Biega National Park cater to all budgets. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

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

Let us know your preferences, and we’ll help book the best accommodation for you!

How to Access Congo for Gorilla Trekking

To reach Congo for gorilla trekking, you’ll fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From there, you can drive to Gisenyi, which is about 2 hours from Kigali, then cross the Rwanda-Congo border into Goma, DR Congo. From Goma, it’s another 2-hour drive to the park headquarters in Kahuzi Biega or Virunga National Park.

When to Book Your DR Congo Gorilla Safari

It’s best to book your Congo gorilla safari well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Gorilla permits for Virunga National Park can sell out quickly, so we recommend booking at least 3 months ahead. Contact Excursia Adventures to check availability, reserve your permits, and take care of all your travel arrangements.

Why Book Your Congo Safari with Excursia Adventures?

Excursia Adventures is your trusted partner for unforgettable gorilla treks and safaris in Uganda, Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania. We’re known for our excellent service, local expertise, and seamless travel arrangements. As a full member of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO), we’re committed to providing you with a safe, enriching, and memorable experience.

Whether you’re trekking mountain gorillas, hiking volcanoes, or spotting rare birds, Excursia Adventures ensures every detail of your trip is taken care of. Contact us today to start planning your dream safari in Congo!