Gorilla Trekking from Congo

Gorilla Trekking from Congo

Are you planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda or Rwanda, and looking to add a trip to Congo to your itinerary? Or perhaps you’re based in Congo and wish to trek gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda? Trek Africa Expeditions can help you plan the perfect gorilla trekking experience starting from Congo.

Congo has recently joined the East African Community, which means you can now travel there with an East African multiple entry visa. While Congo has been a destination many travelers once hesitated to visit due to past instabilities, the situation has improved significantly over the last five years, especially in regions like Goma, which is now safe for tourists.

A trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) is truly adventurous, offering the chance to trek both lowland and mountain gorillas, as well as explore the awe-inspiring Nyiragongo Volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Trek Africa Expeditions ensures your safety, guiding you through the safest parts of Congo.

Why Choose Gorilla Trekking in Congo?

Gorilla trekking is one of the most unforgettable experiences for travelers visiting Africa. Though it can be physically demanding, including hikes through dense forest, across challenging terrain, and sometimes through swamps, the reward is well worth the effort. Watching gorillas in their natural habitat is an experience that will stay with you forever. In Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo, you’ll be able to spend one hour observing these magnificent creatures. If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, consider Uganda’s Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you can spend up to four hours with the gorillas.

Gorilla Trekking in DR Congo: Where to Go

Gorilla trekking in Congo takes place in two incredible national parks: Virunga National Park (home to mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (home to lowland gorillas).

• Virunga National Park: A permit here costs $400 per person during high season (June to October and mid-December to mid-March) and $200 during the low season (mid-March to mid-May and mid-October to mid-December).
• Kahuzi-Biega National Park: A permit costs $400 for foreign non-residents, $200 for East African residents, and $20 for Congolese nationals.

You can purchase your gorilla permits directly from Virunga National Park or through trusted tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Getting Gorilla Permits in Other Countries

While Congo offers a unique gorilla trekking experience, you may also want to explore gorilla trekking in other countries. Here’s a breakdown of prices for permits in Uganda and Rwanda:

• Uganda: Gorilla permits cost $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for residents, and $80 for East African citizens. For a longer encounter with the gorillas, the Gorilla Habituation Experience is available at $1500 per person. The permits are available through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through a reliable operator like Trek Africa Expeditions.
• Rwanda: Gorilla permits in Rwanda are $1500 for foreign non-residents, $500 for foreign residents, and $200 for East African citizens. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to 12 gorilla families, and permits can be obtained directly from the Rwanda Development Board or via Trek Africa Expeditions.

Gorilla Trekking Age Limits

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years, and the maximum is 85 years, depending on fitness levels. For those who may find the trek physically demanding, especially elders, sedan chairs are available in Uganda for hire to assist with trekking.

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policy

Gorilla trekking permits are non-refundable within 0 to 8 days before the trekking date. However, the cancellation policy has become more flexible due to the pandemic, allowing some changes to your trekking date. Always check the specific cancellation terms with your tour operator.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking

The best time for gorilla trekking in Africa is during the dry months, particularly January, February, and June to September. This period makes it easier to navigate the forest and offers better visibility of the gorillas as the vegetation is not as thick.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

When preparing for a gorilla trek, it’s important to pack appropriately for the conditions. Here’s a list of recommended items:

• Comfortable hiking boots or shoes
• Lightweight long sleeves and trousers
• Insect repellent
• A camera with extra batteries
• Gardening gloves for extra grip
• A rain jacket
• Water bottle
• A torch or flashlight (with spare batteries)
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Wet wipes
• Binoculars for bird and game watching

Why Book with Trek Africa Expeditions

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves in organizing unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences across Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Whether you prefer a budget, mid-range, or luxury package, we’ve got you covered with expert planning, including permit bookings and safety considerations. Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor to see why travelers trust us to provide exceptional service and experiences.

Ready to embark on your gorilla trekking adventure from Congo? Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today to start planning your unforgettable journey!