Trekking Gorillas in Congo

Trekking Gorillas in Congo: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure

Are you planning a trip to Africa and eager to experience the thrill of trekking mountain gorillas? Congo is one of just three countries where you can encounter these incredible creatures in the wild, alongside Uganda and Rwanda. The gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo are found in Virunga National Park, one of the oldest and most diverse tropical rainforests in Africa.

Virunga is part of the greater Virunga Mountain range, which includes Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, all of which are home to the endangered mountain gorillas. While gorilla trekking is the highlight of Virunga, the park also offers a variety of other attractions such as the active Nyiragongo Volcano, stunning birdlife, golden monkeys, and chimpanzees. If you’re looking to add a truly unforgettable experience to your African adventure, trekking gorillas in Congo is an absolute must.

How to Organize and Book Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Booking a gorilla trekking safari in Congo doesn’t have to be complicated. At Excursia Adventures, we specialize in organizing seamless tours to Congo’s Virunga National Park. Whether you’re traveling from Uganda or Rwanda, we handle all the details, from securing your gorilla permits to arranging accommodation and transport. Our team is based in Uganda and manages all logistics, ensuring your trip to Congo is smooth and stress-free.

We operate a fleet of 4×4 vehicles stationed in Kigali, Rwanda and Uganda, all driven by professional safari guides who are knowledgeable about both Congo and Rwanda. They’ll make sure you feel safe and comfortable during your journey to and from Virunga National Park.

What Does It Cost to See Mountain Gorillas in Congo?

Gorilla trekking in Congo is a daily activity, with treks starting early in the morning at around 7:45 AM. After a briefing, you’ll be assigned a gorilla group and head into the lush forests of Virunga National Park. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend one hour observing them, taking photos, and learning about their habitat and behaviors.

At Excursia Adventures, we offer all-inclusive gorilla tour packages with no hidden costs. The primary cost is the gorilla permit, which secures your spot for the trek. Our tours cater to various budgets, from budget safaris to luxury experiences. For example, a 2-day gorilla trekking tour from Kigali costs USD 1100 per person (based on two people sharing). This price includes your gorilla permit, transportation, accommodation, meals, and guide services.

How to Get Gorilla Trekking Permits for Congo

Once you confirm your trip with us, we’ll take care of securing your gorilla trekking permits for Virunga National Park. Upon payment, we’ll reserve your permits and send you a scanned receipt as proof of your booking. After that, you can finalize your international flights and pay any remaining balance for your services.

What to Do and See on a DR Congo Gorilla Safari

A gorilla safari in DR Congo offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness breathtaking wildlife and immerse yourself in one of Africa’s most beautiful landscapes. Virunga National Park, the heart of gorilla trekking in Congo, offers a range of activities beyond the iconic gorilla treks. From chimpanzee encounters to volcano hikes, here’s a look at what you can do and see during your trip to this stunning region.

1. Chimpanzee Tracking and Habituation

Chimpanzee tracking is one of the most popular activities in Virunga National Park. On a regular chimpanzee tracking tour, you’ll have a one-hour encounter with these fascinating primates in the wild. For those seeking a deeper connection, chimpanzee habituation allows you to spend the entire day with the chimpanzees, learning about their behavior, feeding habits, and natural interactions. This activity is a fantastic addition to your gorilla trekking adventure. Note that both chimpanzee tracking and habituation require booking your permits well in advance—ideally 3 months before your trip.

2. Nature Walks Through Virunga’s Forests

Virunga National Park is home to one of the oldest and most biodiverse rainforests in Africa. Embarking on a nature walk here is the perfect way to take in the unique landscape of the park, from dense vegetation to clearings with stunning views. Your guide will help you identify various tree species, spot diverse birdlife, and—if you’re lucky—catch glimpses of mammals or reptiles hidden within the foliage. It’s a peaceful and educational way to experience the beauty of Virunga’s tropical wilderness.

3. Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

One of the most exhilarating experiences in DR Congo is hiking Nyiragongo Volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Standing at 3,470 meters (11,380 feet), Nyiragongo offers an awe-inspiring adventure. A hike to its summit will take you past stunning landscapes, and once at the top, you’ll have the chance to see the active lava lake—an unforgettable sight. This trek is a must for any adventure seeker and can be done as part of your DR Congo mountain gorilla safari.

4. Bird Watching

Virunga’s varied ecosystems, from rainforests to swamps and grasslands, make it an excellent destination for birdwatching. Over 700 bird species have been recorded in the park, making it a bird lover’s paradise. As you trek through the forest, keep your eyes peeled for some of Africa’s rarest and most colorful birds. This is an activity that truly enhances your DR Congo mountain gorilla safari experience.

5. Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Beiga National Park

For a unique experience, head to Kahuzi Beiga National Park for lowland gorilla trekking. This is a distinct and rare experience compared to the mountain gorillas of Virunga. Kahuzi Beiga is home to just two families of lowland gorillas, making the permits competitive, especially during peak seasons (June, July, August, September, December, and February). It’s important to book your gorilla trekking permits well in advance to ensure availability.

Best Time to Visit DR Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Due to its tropical rainforest climate, Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Beiga National Park can experience unpredictable rainfall throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are drier, making trekking easier, and the dense vegetation is less obstructive, offering clearer views of the gorillas. The wet months (March to May, and October to November) are more challenging due to slippery trails and lush foliage, which can make trekking more difficult.

Where to Stay During Your DR Congo Gorilla Trekking Safari

Virunga National Park offers various accommodation options to suit different budgets:

• Budget Options: Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp offer basic yet comfortable accommodations starting at around $90-$100 per night per person.
• Mid-Range Options: Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp offer a more comfortable experience with rates between $100-$200 per night.
• Luxury Options: For those seeking a more upscale experience, Mikeno Lodge offers luxury accommodations starting at $200-$400 per night.

Let us know your preferences, and we’ll help you choose the best accommodation to match your needs and book your stay.

How to Access DR Congo for Gorilla Trekking

To access Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Beiga National Park, fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From there, you’ll drive to Gisenyi, a town near the border with DR Congo. After crossing the border into Goma, it’s about a 2-hour drive to the park headquarters, where your gorilla trekking adventure will begin.

When to Book Your DR Congo Gorilla Safari

Due to the high demand for gorilla trekking permits, it’s important to book your safari at least 3 months in advance to secure your spot. Permits for Virunga National Park can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. By booking early with Excursia Adventures, we’ll ensure your permits are secured and your trip is smoothly organized.

Why Choose Excursia Adventures for Your DR Congo Gorilla Safari

At Excursia Adventures, we pride ourselves on offering professional, personalized tour services across Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, and Tanzania. As a trusted operator, we are full members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) and work closely with local authorities to provide exceptional experiences. Our team, led by experts in the region, will take care of all the details for you, from securing your gorilla trekking permits to planning your entire itinerary. With our deep knowledge of the region, we are well-equipped to provide you with an unforgettable gorilla safari experience in DR Congo.

Contact us today to start planning your mountain gorilla safari in DR Congo! We’ll help you book your permits, arrange accommodations, and guide you every step of the way to make your trip truly remarkable.