How to See Gorillas in Congo

Where to See Gorillas in Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to several national parks where gorillas thrive:

• Virunga National Park: Famous for mountain gorilla trekking.
• Kahuzi Biega National Park: Renowned for lowland gorilla trekking, particularly of the rare Grauer’s gorillas (Eastern Lowland gorillas).
• Lesio Louna National Park: Offers a unique experience to see Western Lowland Gorillas via boat trekking.

Both Virunga and Kahuzi Biega National Parks are the most popular for gorilla trekking safaris in Congo.

About Virunga National Park – Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest national park and one of the most biodiverse tropical rainforests. It is famously known as the habitat of the mountain gorillas in DRC. Alongside gorilla trekking, visitors can enjoy:

• Hiking the active Nyiragongo volcano.
• Bird watching and nature walks.
• Chimpanzee tracking and habituation experiences.

Mountain gorillas are found in only three countries worldwide: Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. In the DRC, these magnificent creatures reside in Virunga National Park, part of the larger Virunga Massif ecosystem that spans across borders.

Kahuzi Biega National Park – Home of the Eastern Lowland Gorillas

Kahuzi Biega National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best place in the world to see the elusive Grauer’s gorillas, also called Eastern Lowland Gorillas. Established in 1970, the park boasts:

• 12 gorilla families, with 2 habituated families open for trekking: Chimanuka and Mugaruka.
• The largest gorilla family known, with over 36 individuals in Chimanuka.
• Stunning landscapes accessible by road or air, just 30 km from Bukavu town.

Lowland gorilla trekking here is a truly unique experience, different from mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga.

Gorilla Trekking Permits and Costs in Congo

Securing a gorilla trekking permit in Congo is essential and must be done well in advance—at least 3 to 5 months before your trip. Permit prices vary depending on the park and your residency status:

• Virunga National Park (Mountain Gorilla Permit):
  High Season (Dec-Mar, Jun-Oct): $400 per person per trek.
  Low Season (Mar-May, Oct-Dec): $200 per person per trek.
• Kahuzi Biega National Park (Lowland Gorilla Permit):
  Non-residents: $400.
  East African residents: $200.
  Congolese nationals: $20.

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris assists travelers in securing permits and offers all-inclusive gorilla safari packages to simplify your experience, including transport, accommodation, and guiding services.

Best Time to Visit Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Congo’s tropical climate means it is prone to unpredictable rainfall throughout the year. However, the best time to visit for gorilla trekking in Congo is during the dry seasons, when trails are more accessible and gorilla sightings are easier:

• Dry Season (Best time): December, January, February, June, July, August, September.
• Wet Season (Low season): March, April, May, October, November.

During the wet season, gorilla permits are cheaper but trekking becomes more challenging due to slippery trails and dense vegetation.

Accommodation Options for Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Virunga National Park Lodging

• Budget: Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp ($90–$100 per night).
• Mid-Range: Tchegera Island Camp, Lulimbi Tented Camp ($100–$200 per night).
• Luxury: Mikeno Lodge ($200–$400 per night).

Kahuzi Biega National Park Lodging

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

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris can help you select and book the accommodation that best suits your preferences.

How to Access Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Most gorilla trekking safaris in Congo begin from Kigali, Rwanda:

1. Fly into Kigali International Airport.
2. Travel to Gisenyi town near the Rwanda-Congo border.
3. Cross into Congo at Goma town.
4. Drive approximately 2 hours to reach the headquarters of Virunga or Kahuzi Biega National Parks.

This route offers convenient access to Congo’s prime gorilla trekking areas while allowing you to combine your trip with visits to Rwanda or Uganda.

Why Book Your Congo Gorilla Safari with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris?

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris specializes in organizing unforgettable gorilla trekking tours across East Africa, including Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. Benefits of booking with us include:

• Expert knowledge in gorilla trekking permits and logistics.
• Tailored packages ranging from budget to luxury safaris.
• Eco-friendly safaris that support wildlife conservation and local communities.
• Combination tours that include chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, hiking, and cultural experiences.
• Highly rated and reviewed on TripAdvisor for quality and customer service.

Let us take care of your gorilla trekking in Congo planning, so you can focus on experiencing the magic of these incredible apes in their natural habitat.

Final Thoughts on Seeing Gorillas in Congo

Seeing gorillas in Congo is a bucket-list adventure that promises breathtaking encounters and unforgettable memories. Whether you choose to trek the mountain gorillas of Virunga National Park or the lowland gorillas of Kahuzi Biega National Park, planning ahead and securing your permit early are crucial steps.

Contact Monumental Expeditions and Safaris today for expert guidance on where and how to see gorillas in Congo, and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking safari.