How Much Does It Cost to See Lowland Gorillas in Congo?

How Much Does It Cost to See Lowland Gorillas in Congo?

How Much Does It Cost to See Lowland Gorillas in Congo? — Planning to see lowland gorillas in Congo? This unique experience is one of the most incredible wildlife adventures Africa has to offer. To trek lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, you will need a gorilla trekking permit. At Trek Africa Gorillas, we simplify the process for you, handling all the logistics—including securing your gorilla permits—so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits in Congo

Here is the current pricing for lowland gorilla trekking permits in Congo:

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

Given the limited number of gorilla families available for trekking in Kahuzi-Biega, we recommend booking your permits at least 5 months in advance. This ensures availability and helps us secure your preferred trekking dates.

How to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Permit

Booking your gorilla trekking permit is easy when you work with us. Here’s how the process works:

1. Contact Us: Reach out with your travel dates and we’ll confirm the availability of permits.
2. Make a Payment: Once you make the payment for your permit, we’ll secure it directly through the Virunga National Park headquarters.
3. Receive Confirmation: We’ll send you a scanned receipt as proof of your confirmed trek.
4. Plan Your Trip: After securing your permits, book your international flights and finalize the balance for the rest of your trip.

Best Time to Visit Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Both Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park are located in the tropics, with dense tropical rainforests that can experience rainfall at any time. However, the best time for gorilla trekking in Congo falls during the dry seasons:

• Dry Season: December, January, February, June, July, August and September.
  During these months, the trails are less muddy, making trekking easier. The vegetation is also less dense, offering clearer sightings of the gorillas.
• Wet Season: March, April, May, October and November.
  While it’s possible to trek during these months, the trails can be slippery and the lush vegetation makes it more challenging to spot gorillas.

How to Get to Congo for Gorilla Trekking

To trek mountain gorillas in Congo, you’ll visit either Kahuzi-Biega National Park or Virunga National Park, both located in eastern Congo. Here’s how to access them:

1. Fly to Kigali International Airport in Rwanda.
2. Drive to Gisenyi Town (on the Rwanda-Congo border).
3. Cross the border into Goma Town in DR Congo.
4. From Goma, drive approximately 2 hours to reach the park headquarters of either Kahuzi-Biega or Virunga National Park, where your gorilla trekking adventure begins.

Where to Stay During a Gorilla Safari in Congo

Accommodations in Virunga National Park

• Budget Options:
  • Bukima Tented Camp
  • Kibumba Tented Camp – Prices range from $90–$100 per person per night.
• Mid-Range Options:
  • Tchegera Island Camp
  • Lulimbi Tented Camp – Prices range from $100–$200 per person per night.
• Luxury Options:
  • Mikeno Lodge – Prices range from $200–$400 per person per night.

Accommodations in Kahuzi-Biega National Park

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

Let us know your budget and preferences and we’ll check availability and make reservations for you.

Top Congo Gorilla Safari Packages

Here are some of our top Congo safari packages that include lowland gorilla trekking:

• 2-Day Nyiragongo Volcano Hike
• 4-Day Nyiragongo and Gorilla Trekking
• 4-Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking
• 5-Day Nyiragongo Hike and Gorilla Trekking
• 6-Day Lowland and Mountain Gorilla Trekking
• 6-Day Gorilla Trekking and Nyiragongo Hike

Other Unforgettable Activities in Congo

1. Chimpanzee Tracking and Habituation

Experience the magic of tracking or habituating chimpanzees in Virunga National Park.

• Chimpanzee Tracking: Spend one hour observing these fascinating primates.
• Chimpanzee Habituation: Spend an entire day with researchers as you learn about their habits and behavior. Book permits for these experiences at least 3 months in advance to secure your spot.

2. Nature Walks in Virunga Forest

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest tropical rainforest. These walks allow you to discover unique tree species, birdlife and even spot small mammals and reptiles in their natural habitat.

3. Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

Take on the challenge of hiking Nyiragongo Volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. With an elevation of 3,470 meters (11,380 ft), this adventure offers spectacular views of the world’s largest lava lake.

4. Bird Watching

Virunga National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 706 recorded species. The park’s diverse habitats—ranging from forests to grasslands—make it a must-visit destination for birding enthusiasts.

5. Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Mountain gorilla trekking in Congo is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering the chance to encounter these magnificent primates in their natural habitat. This activity is available in Virunga National Park but due to the limited number of gorilla families open for trekking, permits are highly competitive—especially during the peak seasons of June, July, August, September, December and February. It’s common for permits to sell out up to four months in advance, so we strongly recommend booking your gorilla trekking permit at least 3–4 months ahead of your visit.

Why Choose Trek Africa Gorillas for Your Congo Safari?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we pride ourselves on offering exceptional travel experiences in Congo, Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania. Here’s why travelers choose us:

• Expert Knowledge: Our team is local and deeply familiar with the destinations we sell, ensuring you receive accurate and reliable information.
• Professional Service: From inquiries to on-ground support, we have a skilled team dedicated to making your trip seamless and memorable.
• Reputation: We are highly rated on platforms like TripAdvisor and SafariBookings and we’re full members of AUTO (Association of Uganda Tour Operators).
• Eco-Conscious Travel: We focus on eco-friendly tourism that supports conservation and uplifts local communities.

Our website provides up-to-date and comprehensive information to help you plan your mountain gorilla safari in Congo, starting right from Kigali.

Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Safari Today!

Ready to embark on your mountain gorilla trekking adventure in Congo? Contact us today to secure your permits, customize your itinerary and start planning your unforgettable safari experience. Don’t wait too long—gorilla permits are in high demand and spots fill up fast!