Where to See Eastern Lowland Gorillas in DR Congo

Where to See Eastern Lowland Gorillas in DR Congo

Where to See Eastern Lowland Gorillas in DR Congo — If you’ve always dreamed of trekking to see the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in the wild, your adventure can become a reality with Trek Africa Gorillas. The Eastern Lowland Gorilla, also known as Grauer’s Gorilla, is a critically endangered subspecies of the eastern gorilla and it can only be found in the lush forests of Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This fascinating primate is the largest of the four gorilla subspecies, making it a unique and awe-inspiring species to encounter on your safari.

About Kahuzi-Biega National Park: Home of the Eastern Lowland Gorillas

Established in 1970, Kahuzi-Biega National Park is the premier destination for Eastern Lowland Gorilla trekking. The first successful trek to see the Lowland Gorillas took place in 1973 and since then, the park has been dedicated to preserving Grauer’s Gorillas, which are native to the area. This park is home to 12 gorilla families but only two of them, Chimanuka and Mugaruka, are habituated for trekking. Chimanuka, in particular, is one of the most visited, as it’s home to over 36 gorillas, making it one of the largest families in the world.

Best Gorilla Trekking Tours in Congo

If you’re eager to explore the wonders of Congo and its incredible wildlife, we offer a range of exciting trekking tours, including:

• 2 Days Nyiragongo Volcano Hike
• 3 Days Gorilla Trekking in Congo
• 4 Days Nyiragongo and Gorilla Trekking
• 4 Days Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking in Congo
• 5 Days Nyiragongo Hike and Gorilla Trekking
• 6 Days Lowland and Mountain Gorilla Trekking

How to Organize and Book Gorilla Trekking in Congo

When it comes to booking your Lowland Gorilla trekking experience in Congo, Trek Africa Gorillas is your go-to partner. We handle everything from checking availability of permits to organizing transport and accommodation. Our offices in Uganda ensure smooth logistics, as we coordinate Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

We offer a fleet of 4×4 vehicles stationed in Kigali (Rwanda) and Uganda and our expert safari drivers are well-versed in the routes between Kigali and Kahuzi-Biega National Park, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout your journey. Whether you’re arriving from Rwanda or Uganda, we’ve got you covered.

Cost of Trekking the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Congo

To trek the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, you’ll need to secure a gorilla permit. Here’s the cost breakdown for the permits:

• Non-residents: USD 400 per person
• East African residents: USD 200 per person
• Congo nationals: USD 20 per person

Permits are limited, with only two gorilla families open for trekking, so it’s crucial to book well in advance. We recommend securing your permit at least 5 months before your planned visit.

How to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Permit in Congo

Booking your gorilla permit through Trek Africa Gorillas is simple. Once you contact us and confirm your trip, we’ll take care of securing your permit directly from the Congo Virunga National Park headquarters. After receiving your payment, we’ll send you a scanned receipt confirming your trekking date in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

Once your permit is confirmed, you can proceed to book your international flights and pay the balance for your entire safari experience. We’ll ensure that everything is arranged so that you can focus on the excitement of your adventure.

Where to Stay in Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Accommodation around Kahuzi-Biega National Park caters to all budgets. You’ll find options ranging from basic to luxury:

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

Let us know your preferred budget and we’ll arrange your accommodation for a comfortable stay during your safari.

How to Access Congo for Gorilla Trekking

To reach Kahuzi-Biega National Park, fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From there, you’ll drive to Gisenyi, then cross the Rwanda-Congo border to Goma in DR Congo. It’s a 2-hour drive from Gisenyi to the park headquarters, where your gorilla trek will begin.

Best Time to Visit Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Virunga’s climate can be unpredictable but the dry season, which typically runs from December to February and June to September, is the best time for gorilla trekking. During these months, the trails are easier to navigate and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot the gorillas.

On the other hand, the wet season (March, April, May, October and November) can make trekking more challenging, as the trails can become slippery and the dense vegetation can obstruct visibility.

Other Amazing Things to Do in Congo

Congo is not just about gorilla trekking – it offers a rich variety of activities that allow you to explore its breathtaking natural beauty and unique wildlife. Here are some exciting experiences to consider during your visit to Virunga National Park and other stunning parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Chimpanzee Tracking and Habituation

• Chimpanzee Tracking: This trek gives you a one-hour encounter with the chimpanzees. You’ll join trackers and researchers as you hike through the forest, learning about the chimps’ natural behavior, feeding habits and social interactions.
• Chimpanzee Habituation: For a more immersive experience, the chimpanzee habituation trek allows you to spend a full day with the chimps, observing them closely until they nest for the night.

Nature Walks Through Virunga Forest

A nature walk through the Virunga Forest is an unforgettable way to experience this ancient tropical rainforest. As one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, Virunga is teeming with biodiversity. On your walk, you’ll have the chance to learn about the incredible array of tree species, spot exotic birds and, if you’re lucky, see mammals and reptiles in their natural habitat.

Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

For those seeking adventure beyond the gorillas, a Nyiragongo Volcano hike is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. As one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Nyiragongo offers a thrilling challenge for hikers. Standing at 3,470 meters (11,380 feet), the volcano is renowned for its constantly bubbling lava lake. Hiking to the summit gives you the chance to witness this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon firsthand. The volcano has erupted 34 times since 1882, with the most recent eruption occurring in 2002.

Bird Watching in Virunga National Park

For bird lovers, Virunga National Park is a paradise. With diverse habitats ranging from dense forests to swamps and grasslands, Virunga is home to more than 706 bird species. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual nature observer, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot a wide variety of birds during your safari.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Of course, Mountain Gorilla Trekking is the primary attraction in Virunga National Park. However, due to the limited number of gorilla families available for trekking, permits can be highly competitive, particularly during peak seasons (June, July, August, September, December and February). It’s recommended that you book your gorilla permit 3-4 months in advance to ensure you don’t miss out.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking in Congo with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we pride ourselves on offering top-tier tour services in Uganda, Congo, Rwanda and Tanzania. With years of experience and a dedicated team, we specialize in organizing unforgettable safaris, including gorilla trekking in Congo. We are full members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) and work closely with the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

As a locally owned company, we offer personalized service and expert knowledge about the region. Our website provides up-to-date information, helping you plan your Congo gorilla safari with confidence.

Contact us today to learn more about how to see the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Congo and book your next adventure. We’re here to help you make your dream safari a reality!