Congo Safaris, Gorilla Trekking in Congo Safari Virunga National Park, Congo Tours

Are you interested in discovering the wonders of Congo safaris, such as gorilla trekking in Congo Virunga National Park and other experiences during African wilderness safaris? This article will provide you with all the interesting information about gorillas and wildlife Congo tours, as well as culture and scenery viewing Congo trips.

The Democratic Republic of Congo, a country in central Africa, the second-largest nation in Africa and the 11th-largest in the world, covers an area of approximately 2,345,410 square kilometers (905,567 square miles), roughly about 4 times the size of Texas in USA, is home to the beautiful Virunga National Park and some of the most incredible wildlife experiences on the planet.

Eastern Congo Gorilla trekking safaris offer you a chance to explore the majestic Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and encounter the endangered mountain gorillas, eastern lowland gorillas, and other unique wildlife species up close when on a Congo safari.

In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Congo gorilla safaris, gorilla trekking, and the natural wonders that await in this incredible travel destination.

Stunning Virunga National Park

Uniqueness of Virunga National Park | What Makes Virunga Park Perfect for Gorilla Safaris?

Visitors on Congo gorilla safaris track a third of the world’s mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park in Congo, one of Africa’s oldest national parks.

The park showcases breathtaking wild natural beauty, featuring active volcanoes, rainforests, savannah plains, and the Mountains of the Moon that act as perfect gorilla habitats.

Park Virunga offers visitors scenic views, diverse landscapes, and intimate encounters with habituated gorilla families in an unspoiled wilderness setting.

Additionally, Virunga offers opportunities for Nyiragongo active volcano hiking, chimpanzee trekking, nature walks, and birding safaris, which can be combined with the gorilla tours.

All these make this national park perfect for gorilla tours in Congo.

Congo Virunga Gorilla Trekking | Virunga National Park Safari

This is a thrilling gorilla trekking adventure activity done in Congo’s Virunga National Park, which involves exploring the park’s vibrant rainforests and witnessing majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

As Africa’s oldest national park, established in 1925, Virunga is home to 12 habituated mountain gorilla groups, offering an unparalleled gorilla trek experience to visitors led by expert guides through the park’s lush forests.

The gorilla trekking process includes a pre-trek briefing, a guided hike through the rainforest to find the habituated gorilla group, a 1-hour observation period of the mountain gorillas in their habitats, and a post-trek debriefing.

Important details to note include that Congo gorilla permits are limited so book in advance; you need to be in good physical condition to partake in this activity; experienced guides are a priority; and safety considerations, such as following park rules and treating gorillas with respect and caution, are emphasized.

In addition to gorilla tours, tourists can engage in other tourist activities.

• Hiking and climbing
• Birdwatching
• Wildlife species spotting
• Cultural tour experiences
• Water sports activities, such as boat rides and fishing

Congo Safaris | Congo Gorilla Safari

These are unforgettable Congo gorilla tours in the Democratic Republic of Congo, primarily in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park.

These parks offer budget-friendly and adventurous opportunities to explore Africa’s hidden treasures when on gorilla tours.

In Virunga Park, observe majestic mountain gorillas up close, with permits allowing for a 1-hour visit, and in Kahuzi Biega National Park you can track and see the easiest option to view the eastern lowland gorillas when on Congo gorilla safaris.

You can choose from short or budget-friendly Congo gorilla tour packages and consider visiting other parks for the viewing of western lowland gorillas, which can add spice to your gorilla tours.

Although the DR Congo has experienced volatility, it is now relatively peaceful and an exciting travel destination for gorillas.

Embark on an Eastern Congo gorilla safari adventure today, which can also be arranged to begin or include other country and national park visits such as Kigali, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda, Kahuzi Biega National Park Congo, Serengeti National Park Tanzania, and Masai Mara Reserve Kenya, etc.

Congo gorilla safaris can also be arranged to include other great activities such as a hike to Mount Nyiragongo’s lava lake, Lwiro Research Center visits, golden monkey tracking, volcano climbing, etc.

Things To See on Congo Gorilla Trekking | Congo Tours

Some of the major attractions you can expect to see while on Congo gorilla tours in Virunga National Park are:

Stunning Mountain Gorillas in DRC

Virunga National Park is home to over 200 endangered mountain gorillas, divided into eight habituated families, offering a unique Congo Safari experience to all visitors on Congo gorilla tours.

Mountain gorillas are large, gentle, and hairy apes, classified as Animalia, Mammalia, and genus Gorilla.

The name “Gorilla” originates from the ancient Greek term “gorillai,” meaning “hairy person,” popularized by Thomas S. Savage.

The park’s eight habituated gorilla families, including Kabirizi, Rugendo, and Nyakamwe, among others, are the main tourist attraction for visitors on Congo gorilla tours, providing an unforgettable wild encounter with these magnificent creatures through the exclusive gorilla trekking activity.

Beyond gorilla tours, Virunga National Park Congo offers a wealth of other tourist attractions, including:

1) Other Diverse Virunga National Park Animals

Spot other wild animals like rare okapi, vibrant Congo peafowl, golden monkey, forest elephants, dent’s mona monkey, Central African red colobus monkeys, giant forest hog, etc. This can be observed during a Congo safari.

2) Beautiful Bird Species in Parc Virunga

Spot over 700 bird species on a Congo safari, including the Wahlberg’s eagle, African goshawk, harrier hawk, grey-crowned crane, black-and-white-casqued hornbill, Rwenzori turaco, red-throated alethe, Kivu ground thrush, collared apalis, and mountain masked apalis, etc.

3) Amazing Volcanic Landscapes in Park Virunga

Discover the park’s rugged volcanic mountains, highlighted by Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano, home to the world’s largest lava lake, and explore its diverse terrain, which serves as a crucial connection between sectors and neighboring parks, fostering connectivity and biodiversity in the Congo-Nile watershed area when on a Congo safari.

4) Stunning Waterways in Parc Virunga

Parc Virunga’s breathtaking waterways, comprising lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, support a vibrant array of flora and fauna. The park features two vast freshwater lakes, Lake Kivu and Lake Edward, and numerous rivers, including the Congo, Nile, and Ruzizi.

With its stunning waterfalls, such as Rutshuru Falls and Escaliers de Venus, the park is a haven for nature enthusiasts on a Congo safari.

Other tourist attractions and national parks in Congo that can be explored on Congo Gorilla safaris are:

1. Kahuzi-Biega National Park, where you can trek to see lowland gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo
2. Lake Kivu, a stunning lake with crystal-clear waters
3. Congo River
4. Senkwekwe gorilla orphanage
5. Salonga National Park
6. Odzala National Park (home to the western lowland gorilla)
7. The world’s largest lava lake, located in Nyiragongo Active Volcano
8. Lush rainforests, home to a vast array of flora and fauna.
9. Learn about the culture and traditions of local communities and villages.

Additionally, you can visit other tourist places or African countries in East Africa and Central Africa when on gorilla tours, such as

1. Nyungwe Forest National Park
2. Akagera National Park
3. Queen Elizabeth National Park
4. Serengeti National Park

Rules and Regulations for Gorilla Treks in Congo’s Virunga National Park on Congo Safaris

To go on a gorilla trekking safari in Virunga National Park, you’ll need to pay attention and follow these Virunga Park rules and regulations, i.e.

Procedure and Duration Taken on Virunga Park Gorilla Trekking Safaris or Congo Gorilla Tours

Here is a general breakdown of the duration and procedures for a gorilla trekking safari in Virunga Park:

Duration

The total duration of a gorilla trek safari in Virunga Park typically ranges from 4 to 7 hours, including a 1-hour pre-trek briefing, 2 to 5 hours of trekking, 1 hour with the gorillas, and a 30-minute post-trek debriefing.

Procedures:

• The activity begins with a pre-trek briefing, where you meet with park rangers and guides, receive essential information about the mountain gorilla trek, safety guidelines, and gorilla behavior, and sign a waiver to receive your trekking permit.
• This is followed by hiking through the forest with guides and porters, following designated and existing trails, navigating through dense vegetation, and climbing steep slopes and challenging terrain to reach the gorilla habitat.
• Then the tour guides utilize their expert knowledge and tracking gorilla skills to locate the gorilla family, while trekkers must remain quiet and follow instructions carefully to avoid disturbing the mountain gorillas and ensure a successful gorilla sighting.
• During your time with the gorillas, observe these magnificent wild creatures from a safe distance of at least 7 meters, take memorable photos and videos without using flash or making noise, and learn about their behavior and biology from the expert guides.
• After the trek, participate in a post-trek debriefing to share experiences with the group, receive insightful information about the gorilla family and conservation efforts, and express gratitude to the guides and porters for their excellent assistance.

Compare the Trekking of Mountain Gorillas vs. Lowland Gorilla Trekking Done on Congo Gorilla Safaris

Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park and Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga Park share some similarities, including:

• Following similar rules and regulations, such as keeping a safe distance and limiting group size
• Requiring visitors to be prepared with appropriate clothing, shoes, water, snacks, and a camera

However, there are also some major differences, such as:

• You can track gorillas (mountain gorillas) in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, but you can only track eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega Game Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Compared to the 5,000 Eastern lowland gorillas found worldwide, approximately 1,000 mountain gorillas are trackable.
• The mountain gorilla tracking tour is more organized, with more habituated families and easier access than lowland gorillas.
• Mountain gorilla trekking has a higher success rate due to the stable habitat and slower movement of the mountain gorillas, topped with excellent conservation efforts.
• The mountain gorilla tracking permit is more expensive (up to $1,500 in Rwanda), while the eastern lowland gorilla permit is more affordable ($400).

How To Get to Virunga Park for Gorilla Trekking Congo Safaris

To visit Parc Virunga for Congo Gorilla safaris, consider the following three routes:

• The Congo Route: Fly into Goma International Airport (GOM) in the Democratic Republic of Congo, then take a vehicle or hire a driver to reach the park headquarters or entrance (32 km away). This option is challenging and not highly recommended.
• The Rwanda-Congo Route: Fly into Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda, and drive to Gisenyi (2-4 hours). Cross the border with a pre-arranged visa and yellow fever vaccination card, and meet with a park ranger or guide from the Virunga Foundation.
• The Uganda-Congo Route: Fly into Entebbe International Airport (EBB), Uganda, and drive to the Bunagana border (8 hours). Cross the border with a pre-arranged visa and yellow fever vaccination card, and meet with a park ranger or guide from the Virunga Foundation.

Virunga Gorilla Trekking Congo Price and Costs Incurred on Congo Safaris

Gorilla trekking in Virunga Park costs $400 per permit, and additional expenses for transportation, accommodation, food, and other activities exclusive to this should be considered when planning a Congo safari.

In comparison, Rwanda and Uganda charge $1,500 and $800 per permit, respectively.

To ensure the success of conservation efforts, the Congolese government limits Congo gorilla permits to 8 per day.

Booking with a local Congo tour operator can help with planning and logistics.

Additionally, various tourist activities in Parc Virunga come with separate costs, including:

Top Virunga National Park Accommodation During Gorilla Trek Safaris

The most favorable accommodations, offering budget, midrange, and high-end amenities, provide perfect avenues for you to engage in Congo gorilla trekking.

1. Mikeno Lodge (luxury): Goes for around $330-$705 per night, offering private bungalows, gourmet cuisine, and guided safari adventures.
2. Kibumba Tented Camp (mid-range): Has comfortable canvas tents, shared bathroom facilities, and international cuisine, with stunning jungle and volcano views.
3. Bukima Tented Camp (semi-luxury): Has comfortable canvas tents, shared bathroom facilities, and international cuisine, with scenic views of Mt. Mikeno and Mount Nyiragongo.
4. Lulimbi Tented Camp (mid-range): Has cozy canvas tents, shared bathroom facilities, and international cuisine, with stunning views of the surrounding fauna and volcanoes.
5. Tchegera Island Camp (standard) offers canvas tents equipped with beds and bedding, shared bathroom facilities, international cuisine, and a range of leisure activities for relaxation.
6. Ngila Lodge (tranquil safari lodge): Offers comfortable rooms, Congolese and international cuisine, and scenic views of the surrounding game life and volcanoes.
7. Mount Nyiragongo Summit Shelter (camping): Offers basic camping facilities and stunning views of Virunga Park from the summit of Mount Nyiragongo.

Other notable accommodations include Hotel Virunga, Hotel Nyiragongo, Goma Lodge, Lac Kivu Hotel, Virunga Inn Resort & Spa, Kibati Lodge, Nyiragongo Guesthouse, and climbing huts.

We strongly recommend booking in advance, especially during peak seasons (June to October and December to February).

Best Time to Visit Congo Virunga National Park for Gorilla Trek Safaris

The best time to visit Virunga Park, which is open year-round for gorilla Congo safaris, is during the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) with temperatures ranging from 61-82°F, perfect for optimal gorilla trekking safaris and other tourist activities like chimpanzee trekking, cultural festivals, boat cruises, birding, nature walks, and game life viewing.

However, the wet seasons (April, May, October, and November) offer advantages like lower prices, fewer tourists, and ideal conditions for Congo birding safaris.

Visitors should pack appropriate gear, including waterproof hiking boots and layers for cooler temperatures.

Compare Virunga Gorilla Trekking to Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda and Uganda: How Unique Is the Gorilla Trek Experience in Virunga Park?

Parc Virunga (Congo), Rwanda, and Uganda are all countries that offer a wild gorilla trekking experience. These countries provide perfect opportunities to encounter endangered species of mountain gorillas in their natural habitats, led by experienced tour guides and rangers, and allow for close interactions with these magnificent creatures.

However, differences also exist that make Congo Virunga Gorilla trekking better than the gorilla treks in Rwanda and Uganda, such as:

• While mountain gorilla trekking safaris in DR Congo take place in Virunga Park, in Rwanda it is done in Volcanoes National Park, and in Uganda in Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park.
• Virunga gorilla trek safaris are cheaper ($400 per permit), while in Uganda it’s $800 for a permit, and in Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park), which is the most expensive, it goes for $1500 a permit.
• Virunga Gorilla trekking is considered more challenging due to terrain and infrastructure as compared to Rwanda and Uganda gorilla treks; this makes it a more unique adventure for those seeking a satisfying challenge.
• While Rwanda and Uganda limit the gorilla treks to only 8 people per trek group, Virunga Gorilla treks allow an unlimited group number of people to partake in the gorilla trek safaris.
• When on gorilla safaris Rwanda mostly offers high-end accommodation options, and Uganda offers mid-range and high-end options, but Virunga Park offers basic and mid-range options, perfect for all visitors on gorilla safaris in Congo.

What To Wear for Congo Gorilla Trekking in Virunga Park or Congo Safaris

Before your mountain gorilla trek safari in Virunga Park, ensure you pack the following essential items to wear during the activity:

Please note that it’s highly recommended to avoid wearing perfume or cologne and consider bringing a rain jacket/poncho or umbrella to be prepared for any weather conditions during your Congo gorilla safari.

Packing List for Congo Gorilla Trekking in Virunga | Personal Essentials on Congo Gorilla Tours

Feel free to pack and bring any of the following items essential for your gorilla trekking Congo gorilla safari activities:

1. Relevant documents to carry are a valid passport, DR Congo visa, Virunga Park activity checklist, and Virunga National Park map.
2. You need photography equipment like binoculars (7x/8x magnification), a camera with a telephoto lens (200 mm+), a tripod or monopod, extra batteries, memory cards, and a lens cleaning cloth.
3. Items for personal and safety include a water bottle or hydration pack, snacks such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits, sunscreen, insect repellent cream, a first-aid kit, a headlamp or flashlight, and a whistle or emergency signaling device.
4. Additional items (if recommended by the tour operator or if you feel they’re important): walking stick/hiking stick, backpack/daypack, waterproof bags/covers, camping gear (if staying overnight)
5. Don’t forget to carry some local currency (Congolese francs) for tips, incidentals, and shopping for crafts and souvenirs.

Remember to consult your Congo gorilla safari operator for clarity and to avoid extra charges on unwanted gear packed.

Virunga Park Gorilla Trekking FAQ [Frequently Asked Questions]

1. How Much Does It Cost to See Gorillas in Congo? | How Much Is the Virunga Gorilla Trek?

The cost of a Virunga Gorilla Trek is $400 per person per trip during peak season (December to March and June to October) and $200 (half price) during low season (March to May and October to December).

2. Where Is the Cheapest Place to See Gorillas?

The cheapest place to see gorillas is in Congo, where a permit costs $400 per person per trek during the high season and $200 during the low season.

3. What Country Has the Most Gorillas?

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has the largest gorilla population, with an estimated 15,000-20,000 individuals, primarily mountain gorillas, eastern lowland gorillas, and the western lowland gorilla.

4. How Much Does a Gorilla Safari Cost? | How Much Is Gorilla Trekking in DRC? | How Much Is Gorilla Trekking Fee? | How Much Does It Cost to Go on A Safari in Congo?

A gorilla safari in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has varying costs based on national park, season, and accommodation type.

Virunga Park’s gorilla track permits cost $400 in peak season and $200 in low season. Other expenses, such as accommodation, transportation, food, and activities, can cost between $1,000 and $2,000.

5. Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money?

Yes, gorilla trekking is worth all the money, as it offers a unique opportunity to witness majestic gorillas in their gorilla habitat, support conservation efforts and local communities, enjoy breathtaking scenery, challenge yourself and achieve personal growth, and create lifelong memories and a deeper appreciation for nature.

6. What Wildlife Is in The Republic of The Congo? | Can You See Gorillas in Congo?

Indeed, the Republic of the Congo is home to numerous animal species, including chimpanzees, forest elephants, okapis, and over 1,000 bird species. This megadiverse nation, boasting an incredible 50% of Africa’s tropical forests, provides an ideal habitat for these species.

7. Is Gorilla Trekking in Congo Safe? Is It Safe to See Gorillas in Congo? Is Congo Gorilla Trekking Safe?

Yes, gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is generally safe, but you should exercise caution there. Plan carefully, adhere to park guidelines, and take precautions to ensure a safe experience.

8. Which Country Is Safest for Gorilla Trekking?

Rwanda and Uganda are generally safe for gorilla trekking, with Rwanda standing out for its political stability, low crime rate, and well-organized tourism industry, making it an ideal travel destination for safe and successful gorilla Congo safaris.

9. Are There Any Gorillas in The Congo? How Many Gorillas Are Left in the Congo?

The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to many gorillas, including 350 mountain gorillas in the Virunga Mountains, about one-third of the world’s total population, which you can see when on Congo safaris.

10. What Is the Largest Gorilla in the World?

Grauer’s gorilla is the largest gorilla subspecies and the world’s largest primate, often seen when on a Congo safari.

11. Which Country Is Best for Gorilla Trekking?

Uganda offers a distinct gorilla trekking experience that is affordable with a wider range of wildlife and a more challenging trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, with cheaper permits ($800).

12. How Much Is a Gorilla Permit in Congo?

A gorilla permit in Congo costs $400 per person and is a must-have when on a gorilla Congo safari.

Experience an unforgettable adventure with Congo Safaris! Trek endangered gorillas, explore natural wonders, and experience unforgettable wildlife moments with expert guides and a focus on conservation. Book now!