How to Prepare for Gorilla Trekking in Congo

How to Prepare for Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Planning a gorilla trekking adventure in the Democratic Republic of Congo? Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable experience. Gorilla trekking in Congo takes place in Virunga National Park, home to 10 habituated gorilla families that are open for tourism. While political instabilities make the exact number of gorillas difficult to track, the most recent census estimates over 100 mountain gorillas, with 7 newborns recently counted.

Best Time to Visit Congo for Gorilla Trekking

The ideal time for gorilla trekking in Congo is during the dry season, which spans from May to September. Congo’s equatorial climate means there are two rainy seasons: the long rainy season from October to December and a shorter one from March to April. While it is possible to trek during the wet season, the heavy rains can make forest trails slippery and wildlife viewing more challenging. For a smoother trekking experience, it’s best to plan your visit during the dry months of May, June, July, August, or September.

What to Expect from Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Gorilla trekking in Congo is a thrilling experience that involves hiking through the dense forest to find a family of habituated mountain gorillas. Once you locate the gorillas, you’ll spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat, capturing photographs, and learning about their unique behaviors. Since mountain gorillas can’t survive in captivity, the only way to encounter these remarkable apes is by trekking into the wild.

Where to See Mountain Gorillas: Congo, Uganda, or Rwanda?

In Congo, you can trek mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park, while lowland gorillas are found in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. For those interested in Uganda, mountain gorillas reside in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is the go-to destination for gorilla trekking.

Congo offers a rare opportunity to see both mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas, with many visitors opting to visit both Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Parks for a more comprehensive gorilla trekking experience.

Virunga National Park: A Must-Visit for Gorilla Trekking

Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest national park and one of its most ecologically diverse tropical rainforests. While mountain gorilla trekking is the main attraction, the park also offers a range of activities, including hiking the Nyiragongo volcano, bird watching, chimpanzee tracking, and nature walks. All of these experiences can be easily booked through us.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park: Home to Lowland Gorillas

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is the best place to trek lowland gorillas, making it a unique destination in Congo. The park, established in 1970, began its first lowland gorilla trekking experience in 1973. With 12 gorilla families, two of which are habituated for trekking, Kahuzi-Biega offers a chance to see the famous Chimanuka family, one of the largest gorilla families in the world with over 36 members. The second habituated family, Mugaruka, is also named after its dominant silverback.

By visiting both Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega, you can enjoy the rare experience of seeing both mountain and lowland gorillas in their natural environments.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, located in the southwestern region of Uganda, borders the districts of Kanungu, Rubanda, and Kisoro, as well as the Uganda-DR Congo border. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to 19 habituated gorilla families that are open for trekking. These families are spread across four main trekking sectors: Ruhija and Buhoma in the north, and Rushaga and Nkuringo in the south. Each offers a unique experience in gorilla trekking, with lush landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is nestled in the far southwestern part of Uganda, in Kisoro District, bordering Rwanda and DR Congo. This park is part of the greater Virunga Mountain range, alongside Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo. Mgahinga is home to two gorilla families: Nyakagezi and Hirwa. While the Nyakagezi family is stable and the primary focus for trekking, Hirwa’s movements can be unpredictable, making trekking this family more challenging.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park is located in northwestern Rwanda and is renowned for its population of mountain gorillas. The park is home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga range, including Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Gahinga, Bisoke, and Muhabura. With around 380 mountain gorillas and 10 habituated families available for trekking, this park is one of the premier destinations for gorilla trekking in Africa. Visitors to Volcanoes National Park can also explore the breathtaking volcanic landscapes and enjoy a range of other activities.

Gorilla Trekking in Congo: Costs and Preparation

For those interested in gorilla trekking in DR Congo, Virunga National Park offers one of the most affordable experiences compared to Uganda and Rwanda. The cost of trekking permits depends on the season and your travel style, whether budget, standard, or luxury.

During the high season (December, January, February, June, July, August, September, and early October), gorilla trekking permits in Virunga National Park are priced at $400 per person. These months are popular due to the dry season, making the trekking experience more accessible and trails easier to navigate. It’s advisable to book your permit at least three months in advance to secure your spot during these peak months.

For those seeking a more cost-effective option, discounted permits are available during the low season (March, April, May, October, November, and early December) for just $200 per person. This discounted rate is valid from March 15th to May 15th, and from October 15th to December 15th. As with regular permits, booking at least three months in advance is recommended to ensure availability.

How Long Does Gorilla Trekking Take in Congo?

Gorilla trekking in Congo typically lasts between 3 to 7 hours, depending on various factors. The length of the trek is influenced by the location of the gorillas on that particular day, their movements, and the weather conditions. Sometimes, the trek can take a full day. Gorilla trekking begins at 7:45 AM with a briefing on the do’s and don’ts in the forest. Afterward, you’re assigned a ranger guide who will lead the trek. Once you encounter the gorillas, you’ll spend one hour observing and interacting with them.

How Many People Can Trek Gorillas in Congo Per Day?

In Congo, only 8 people are allowed to trek each gorilla family per day. This limit helps minimize disturbance to the gorillas and reduces the risk of disease transmission between humans and these endangered animals.

What is a Congo Gorilla Trekking Permit?

A Congo gorilla trekking permit is an official document that allows visitors to trek and spend one hour with mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park or Kahuzi-Biega National Park. The permit is valid for one day only. If you plan to trek on multiple days, you will need to purchase a permit for each day. Every permit comes with a unique booking number, which is tied to a specific trekking region.

What is Included in a Congo Gorilla Permit?

A gorilla trekking permit in Congo includes park entrance fees, the services of park rangers and guides, and a portion of the fee goes directly toward conserving the gorillas’ habitat. The permit allows for a one-hour encounter with the gorillas in either Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

Where Can I Purchase a Gorilla Permit in Congo?

You can purchase a gorilla trekking permit for Congo directly through Virunga National Park or by booking through a reputable tour operator like Excursia Adventures. To book through a tour operator, check their reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, then send them an email with your preferred trekking dates. They will check availability and confirm your permit once payment is made.

Can Elderly or Disabled Persons Trek Gorillas in Congo?

Yes, elderly or disabled visitors can participate in gorilla trekking in Congo. Sedan chairs are available for hire to assist those who are unable to walk through the forest. These chairs are carried by porters and can be booked in advance or on the day of the trek. The cost of hiring a sedan chair ranges from $400 to $500.

What Are the Minimum and Maximum Ages for Gorilla Trekking in Congo?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Congo is 15 years. This restriction helps prevent unpredictable behavior that could disturb the gorillas and minimizes the risk of disease transmission from children. There is no maximum age for trekking, but fitness levels are a consideration.

What is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Congo?

Gorilla trekking in Congo is possible year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry months of January, February, March, early April, and June to early September. These months offer easier travel conditions and better visibility in the forest due to shorter vegetation. The rainy months of April, May, and November can make the trek more challenging.

What to Pack and Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Congo

For your gorilla trek in Congo, pack a pair of sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or boots, as the forest trails can be muddy and steep, especially after rain. Long-sleeved shirts and lightweight trousers are recommended to protect against nettles and biting insects. Essential items include insect repellent, a flashlight with spare batteries, wet wipes, a water bottle, a camera, gardening gloves, a hat, sunscreen, a rain jacket, and a sweater for cooler mornings. Don’t forget binoculars for bird watching!

Why Book Your Gorilla Trek with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we are dedicated to providing personalized service that ensures both your safety and enjoyment during your gorilla trekking adventure. Our packages are affordable and customizable to meet your needs. We are committed to responsible tourism, with a focus on the well-being of both our guests and the local communities we work with. By choosing us, you support conservation efforts and help preserve the wild places we visit. Let us help you plan the perfect gorilla trek in Congo. Contact us today to start your journey!