Gorilla trekking in Congo safari Virunga National Park is the topmost highlight of Congo safaris or Congo tours.
Tourists undertaking Congo gorilla safari tours not only have a chance to track Mountain gorillas but, they can also track the giant Eastern Lowland gorillas within Kahuzi Beiga park.
Therefore, indeed Democratic Republic of Congo- simply known as Congo is a great paradise for gorilla tracking tours in Africa as it’s the only place where you can spot endangered Mountain gorillas and the Lowland gorillas!
While on your Congo safari tours, you have an opportunity to explore the enormous Democratic Republic of the Congo- DRC. This picturesque country is covered mostly in lush tropical rainforests and it’s rich in minerals & unique amazing wildlife for instance the Pygmy Chimpanzees (Bonobos).
The breathtaking views of the stunning volcanic mountains will amaze you on your Congo gorilla safaris. The commonly visited volcano is Nyiragongo active volcano which holds a boiling lava crater at its summit. Nyiragongo volcano hikes are possible on top of your Congo gorilla trekking safari!
A safari in the Democratic Republic of Congo explains the real meaning of an African safari vacation! For remarkable safari memories, most travelers combine their Uganda and Rwanda safaris with their Congo safaris.
Please note that the dry months offer the best experience to take Congo gorilla trekking safari tours.
Here is all that you need to know about Congo gorilla safaris
Sites for Gorilla Trekking Tours in Congo – Where to See Gorillas in Congo? | Where to Go for Congo Gorilla Safaris?
Congo gorilla trekking tours are only possible in two destinations i.e. Virunga National Park for Mountain gorillas & Kahuzi Beiga park for Eastern Lowland gorillas.
Below are places for Congo gorilla tours:
Virunga National Park
Virunga National Park is among the top attractions in Democratic Republic of Congo. This scenic UNESCO world heritage site was initially named Albert National Park but, it got renamed Virunga National Park after DR Congo got its independence in 1969 from Belgium.
Congo Virunga National Park in eastern Congo nearby Lake Kivu & Albert is the oldest national park in Congo. It dabbed as the park of fire and Ice due to its diverse habitats ranging from Rwenzori snowcapped peaks, volcanic plains, and savannahs. The views of this park are breathtaking!
Worldwide, Virunga Park is famous for gorilla tracking safaris and its incredible two active volcanic mountains; Mount Nyiragongo active volcano & Nyamurangira.
Virunga National Park doesn’t only stop on endangered Mountain gorillas; however, it is also habitat to Golden Monkeys and Chimpanzees as well as other animals (over 169 recorded), which can be seen on the gorilla trek.
During the gorilla trek in Virunga National Park Congo, lucky visitors can encounter rare amazing wildlife species in their natural habitat for instance:
Okapis
Central African Red Colobus
Black and white colobus monkeys
Giant forest hog
Dent’s Mona Monkeys
Beautiful bird species including Central African birds
Virunga Park is home to over 10 habituated Mountain gorilla families, and these include:
1. Kabirizi Gorilla Family
2. Bageni
3. Rugendo
4. Lulengo
5. Wilungula Nyakamwe
6. Humba
7. Munyaga
8. Baraka and,
9. Mapuwa
Most visitors on Congo gorilla tours track the Kabirizi Gorilla Family
2. Kahuzi Biega National Park
Kahuzi Biega National Park is another famous tourist attraction in Congo renowned for tracking Lowland gorilla trekking tours.
This beautiful park (6000km2) sits on Lake Kivu western bank and it’s among the biggest protected expanses in Democratic Republic of Congo.
Within Kahuzi Biega National Park, over 250 Gorillas have been recorded and out of these, 5 families are habituated for Congo gorilla safaris- Eastern lowland gorilla trekking tours.
Below are the 5 habituated gorilla groups within Kahuzi Biega National Park:
Chimanuka Group
Mugahuka Group
Mpungwe Group
Bonnani Group
Nganwa Group
On a lucky day, during forest walks in Congo Kahuzi Biega National Park, you can encounter wonderful animals such as:
Forest Elephants- It’s one of the rare endangered species in Africa
Dent’s Mona Monkey
Red-tailed Monkeys
Central African Red Colobus
Lovely bird species such as Albertine Owlet, & Congo Peafowl.
There are chimps in Kahuzi Beiga National Park however, there are not open for chimpanzee trekking expeditions.
Note:
Eastern Lowland gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo are similar to Western Lowland gorilla in Odzala National Park within Congo Brazzaville of Central Africa. All these gorilla species live in lowlands, unlike Mountain gorillas.
How Much Is a Gorilla Permit in Congo? | How Much Is Gorilla Trekking in DRC? | How Much Does It Cost to See Gorillas in Congo?
How much is gorilla trekking fee in DR Congo and how much is the Virunga gorilla trek are common questions from clients intending to have Congo gorilla safari expeditions on their Congo safaris!
This is the cost for the gorilla tracking permit in Congo:
Non Residents- 400 US dollars
Foreign Residents- 400 US dollars
Congolese Citizens– 200 US dollars
In Virunga or Kahuzi Biega National Park, no visitor can track Mountain gorillas if not having a gorilla permit. We advise you to book your permit in advance, since Congo gorilla permits are limited.
Congo gorilla permits are the cheapest in comparison with that of Uganda and Rwanda in Volcanoes National Park.
What Is Included in the Gorilla Trekking Permit in Congo?
A gorilla permit in Congo includes your pack entrance fees and the fee for the park rangers. These armed guys escort you to the jungle and ensure that you are safe.
It excludes accommodation fees, transportation, meals as well as the cost for the porters.
Where and How to Buy a Congo Gorilla Trekking Permit?
You can buy your Congo gorilla trekking permit direct from Virunga National Park Headquarters within Goma or through a tour operator.
In most cases, tourists intending to have Congo gorilla tours on their Congo safaris book permits through tour operators.
Is Gorilla Trekking Worth It in Congo? | Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money?
In comparison with other wildlife safaris in Africa, gorilla trekking safaris normally are a bit expensive however, most travelers agree that this thrill is worth the money.
Mountain gorilla tracking is a lovely rare & wild adventure giving you a chance to encounter these amazing and endangered giant humanlike primates. A big revenue collected as travelers track Mountain gorillas goes back to their Conservation strategies.
The other portion helps to develop communities nearby Mountain gorilla parks. For example, it’s used in building health centers and schools.
Indeed, Congo gorilla trekking expeditions are worth it!
How Long Is Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking safari tours in Congo within all parks take approximately 2-8 hrs.
The duration of Congo gorilla trek depends on movement of these cool giants. There are some families that are known to feed closer and they can be spotted within 30 minutes walk. This applies even while on Rwanda gorilla tours in Volcanoes National Park.
All the nature walks for tracking gorillas start from the park control center at 8 am.
Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations for Congo Gorilla Safaris
The Mountain gorilla trekking rules & regulations help to protect Mountain gorillas and the life of visitors undertaking this adventure.
Here are the gorilla trekking rules in Virunga National Park to follow on your Congo gorilla trip:
Individuals below 15 years old aren’t allowed to take a gorilla trek
Only 8 visitors can visit a gorilla group a day
Travelers with infectious diseases shouldn’t take a gorilla trek
Follow always the ranger’s instructions while on nature walks searching for gorillas
It’s illegal to make noise on the gorilla tracking trail
Never litter our park while searching the gorillas. Go with everything you came with!
You’re seriously warned against drinking, eating, & smoking in presence of the endangered gorillas
It’s illegal to touch the gorillas, they are wild animals!
Always keep a 7m distance from gorillas after spotting them
Never use flash cameras to take gorilla photos
You’re limited one hour while watching gorillas
In case a Mountain gorilla charges, don’t run! Just crouch down and avoid direct eye contact
These rules apply also in Uganda’s Mgahinga and Bwindi national parks & Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
What Are the Best Months for Safari in Congo? | What Is the Best Time for Congo Gorilla Trekking Safaris
Congo gorilla tours are open all year round! But, dry months December to February and June to early September are recommended as the best time for gorilla trekking within DR Congo.
Normally, in dry months, there is less rainfall in gorilla national parks, for instance, Virunga National Park. Trails for nature walks are often drier, and free from mud.
Rainfall is expected in most hours of the day within March to May as well as October to November. In this season (the low season), some chalets give discounts to their guests. Thus, it’s ideal for budget travelers on Congo safaris.
Packing List for Congo Gorilla Safaris- What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking Safari in Congo?
Avoid moving with heavy luggage. Only pack what you’ll need on the Congo gorilla safari vacation. This packing list is just similar to that of Rwanda gorilla safaris within Volcanoes National Park!
Below are key items to come with on your Congo safari tours:
A clear camera
Hiking boots- useful during nature walks
Garden gloves
Rain jacket
Long sleeved shirts & trousers
Insect repellents- are of help in Virunga National Park within Eastern Congo
A backpack to keep your day essentials
Sun protection gears, for example, sunglasses, sunscreens, and sunhat
Energy giving snacks
Bottled water to keep you hydrated as you search the endangered gorillas
Wear for Congo Safaris- What Do You Wear to a Gorilla Safari in Congo? | What to Wear for Congo Gorilla Trekking?
As you come for a Congo gorilla safari, you should mind about what you are going to wear!
Below is the recommended clothing for Congo gorilla safaris:
Long sleeved shirts and even trousers
Make sure they are in khaki, brown, or grey colored. Colors which are bright for instance, red scare the endangered Mountain gorillas. This kind of clothing protects your body from cuts and insect bites while on nature walks within the wilderness.
Hiking boots
During your gorilla trek, these shoes will protect you from cuts & piercing objects. Make sure that they are light and cover your uncle.
Garden gloves
Safeguards your hands from touching thorns during nature walks as you track gorillas.
A sunhat
Helps to keep you from direct sunlight
Raincoat with a poncho
In case rainfall gets you in the forest on your Congo gorilla tours, it will be of great help!
Sunglasses
Reduces much light rays entering your eyes, especially during the dry season as you enjoy gorilla tracking.
Is Gorilla Trekking in Congo Safe? | Is Congo Gorilla Trekking Safe? | Is It Safe to See Gorillas in Congo?
Although DR Congo is one of the politically insecure countries within East Africa, Congo gorilla safaris are absolutely safe! As you undertake gorilla trekking expeditions in any park in Congo, you’ll be led by armed park rangers who ensure that you are safe in the jungle.
Also, all Congo gorilla tours take place on habituated Mountain gorilla groups which are familiar to people, they hardly charge.
Furthermore, you should note that rangers patrol these national parks purposely to chess out poachers.
We advise you to first inquire from your tour operator before you undertake a Congo gorilla tour holiday.
Which Country is Safest for Gorilla Trekking?
Despite the fact that most gorilla tours within the East African region are safe, gorilla safaris in Uganda and Rwanda Volcanoes National Park are considered to be the safest.
Congo gorilla safari tours are safe but, this state is normally prone to civil unrest from numerous rebel groups. If you are to go for a Congo trip, inquire first from your tour operator.
How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking Congo | How Hard Is Congo Gorilla Trekking?
Most clients intending to come for Congo safaris, particularly Congo gorilla safaris normally ask about the degree of gorilla trekking difficulty in DR Congo.
Congo gorilla trekking safari expeditions are possible for all travelers who have a minimum fitness level. The trail for gorilla tracking will take you through fairly challenging hillsides, rainforests, and valleys!
The above shouldn’t frighten you as most travelers successively finish their adventures, why not you?
On spotting these beautiful cool giants, you will forget the sufferings you have gone through during the trek. The adventure is memorable!
It’s better you try raising your level of fitness before coming for Congo holiday trip.
How Much Does a Gorilla Safari Cost in Congo? | How Much Does It Cost to Go on a Safari in Congo?
Congo gorilla safari tours cost is determined by several factors. Therefore, this implies that you’ll never find a fixed price for Congo gorilla tours.
Some of the key factors that influence the cost of Congo holiday vacation include; the duration of the trip, activities you wish to do, your group size, and the accommodation you decide to use on your Congo gorilla safaris, etc.
Note that, per person, 3 days Congo gorilla tour costs roughly $1200.
Why Go for Congo Gorilla Trekking? | Why Go for Congo Safaris? | Is Congo good for tourists?
Why do tourists visit the Congo? Democratic Republic of Congo is a good destination for tourists undertaking safaris in Africa. Usually, Congo holiday trips are made after gorilla tours in Uganda or Rwanda Volcanoes National Park.
Here is why tourists visit Congo:
Democratic Republic of Congo is among the few areas to see Mountain gorillas on the African continent
Also, Congo is the only African country to track Eastern lowland gorillas
On your Congo holiday trip, you’ll enjoy several amazing wild adventures in Africa. Among these include Nyiragongo active volcano hike which takes you to explore world’s largest lava lake
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, you’ll encounter various natural wonders of the world. For instance, the mighty Congo River & Nyiragongo Volcano which is capped with the largest lava lake in the world
In Congo, you’ll spot numerous and unique wildlife species hardly spotted in the other East African countries. Some of these are Gorillas, Okapis, & chimps
Bird lovers, Congo has it all for you! Expect to encounter several amazing species including birds in West Africa
What Animals Live in the Republic of Congo? | What Wildlife Is in the Republic of the Congo?
Since Democratic Republic of Congo boasts a rich ecosystem that includes rainforests, grasslands, and seasonally flooded forests, Congo holds an array of wonderful wildlife species.
Popular game animals in Congo:
Primates in Congo
These include Mountain gorillas, Golden monkey, and Chimpanzees in Virunga National Park. Others include Red tailed Monkeys, Dent’s Mona Monkey, and Bonobos, etc.
Note:
In the entire world, you can only spot Mountain gorillas in national parks; Rwanda Volcanoes Park & Mgahinga and Bwindi national parks of Uganda
On the African continent, you can only spot Golden Monkeys in Uganda Mgahinga park, & Volcanoes Park Rwanda. Nyungwe Forest National Park is the best place for chimpanzee trekking tours in Rwanda
The Golden monkey is among the top gorgeous monkeys in Africa.
More Game Animal Species in Congo:
Okapis
Elephants
Giraffes
White Rhinos
Lions
Leopards
Spotted Hyenas, and,
Antelopes, etc.
Are There Any Gorillas in the Congo? | Can You See Gorillas in Congo?
DR Congo is one of the few areas to spot Gorillas in the entire world. In Democratic Republic of Congo, you can spot 2 gorilla species i.e. Mountain gorillas and Eastern Lowland gorillas.
Virunga National Park is the main area for Congo gorilla safari trips. Travelers with interest in tracking lowland gorillas should explore Kahuzi Beiga National Park.
Is the Gorilla from Congo Real?
Yeah, there’re gorillas in Congo and make up the major attractions in this lovely country. Travelers on Congo safari tours have a chance to visit 2 mountain gorilla species i.e. the Mountain
Congo has two gorilla species i.e. the Mountain gorillas within Virunga National Park and the Eastern lowland gorillas of Kahuzi Beiga park.
Congo Gorilla Population- How Many Gorillas Are Left in the Congo? | How Many Gorillas Are in Congo?
Roughly 604 Mountain gorillas live in the Democratic Republic of Congo within the Virunga Conservation Area in eastern Congo. Out of this total, Congo’s Virunga National Park holds almost a third of this total. Also, over 250 Grauer’s gorillas have been recorded within Congo’s Kahuzi Beiga park.
Within Democratic Republic of Congo, there’re no Western lowland gorilla, you can only spot them within Odzala National Park.
What Is the Largest Gorilla in the World?
The Eastern lowland gorilla is the largest gorilla in the 4 gorilla species found in the entire world. Mature ones weigh over 100-200kg and for them, they live in majorly in lower altitudes, unlike Mountain gorillas.
Within the East African region, you can only spot these gorillas in Kahuzi Biega park in DRC.
Which Is the Best Safari Park in Congo? | What Is the Best Safari Park in Congo?
Among parks in DRC, Virunga Park is the best park and it’s famously visited for gorilla safari tours in Congo. In this lovely park, you’ll undertake the Nyiragongo hike to explore the lava boiling lake.
More parks of Congo include Kahuzi Biega National Park renowned for Eastern lowland gorilla trekking, as well as Salonga park the home for Bonobos.
Which Country Is Best for Gorilla Trekking? | What Country Has the Most Gorillas?
Destination Uganda offers the best gorilla trekking experience in Africa. It holds almost 50% of 1,063 Mountain gorillas remaining on the Earth. These live in Bwindi park and Mgahinga park. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest alone has over 459 gorillas.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to See Gorillas?
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking permit costs $1500 while that in Uganda is $700. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, it costs $400.
Is There a Safari in Congo? | Does Congo Have Safari?
Travelers on Congo safari tours can enjoy various amazing adventures. Among these, gorilla tours in Virunga National Park are the most prominent. Other wonderful expeditions in Congo include Nyiragongo hike, chimpanzee trekking safaris as well as bird watching tours.
Congo Hotels -Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Congo?
Visitors undertaking Congo gorilla trekking tours will find various safari lodges that suit their budget. These lodges are classified into luxury, midrange, and budget.
Most of these facilities are set in areas that offer lovely views of Virunga Mountains.
Top Luxury Lodges in Congo, Luxury Hotels in Congo
These lodges are ideal for travelers undertaking luxury Congo gorilla safaris. Most lodges have air-conditioned rooms, swimming pools, as well as ensuite rooms, etc.
Here they are:
Bukima Lodge
Mikeno Lodge
L’Orchis Safari Club
Orchids Safari Club
Lac Kivu Lodge
Common Midrange Congo Hotels
These facilities are ranked as 3 to 4 star hotels. They offer standard accommodation to guests on Congo safari holidays.
They include:
Hotel Begonais Bukavu
Panorama Hotel
Lake Side Hotel Bukavu
Coco Lodge Bukavu
Lulimba Tented Camp
Kubumba Tented Camp
Best Budget Congo Hotels
Normally, these facilities are ideal for guests undertaking budget Congo gorilla safaris.
They include:
Exodus Bukavu
Ngila Lodge Virunga
Nyiragongo Volcano Summit Shelter
Mont Kahuzi Hotel
Hotel Begonias Bukavu
Kibumba Tented Camp and Lodge
Hotel Elizabeth
Best Congo Tour Operators, Travel Congo Companies, and Congo Travel Agency to Book with Your Congo Safaris
For a wonderful vacation, travelers coming for Congo safari tours should book their trip with at least an experienced tour operator.
Below is a list of the best Congo safari companies you should travel with on Congo gorilla safaris:
Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
Wild Gorilla Safaris
Africa Safaris Tours
Congo Gorilla Safaris and Tours
Best Congo Gorilla Safari Packages, Popular Congo Tours for You
Travelers taking Congo gorilla safaris usually combine them with Rwanda or Uganda wildlife safaris.
Below are the top Congo tour packages/ best Congo holiday packages to try out:
3 Days Congo Safari- Nyiragongo Hike
3 Days Congo Safari- Gorilla Tracking
3 Days Lowland Gorilla Trekking Experience in Congo
5 Days Congo Safari- Nyiragongo Hike & Gorillas
10 Days Congo Safari Vacation- Uganda and Rwanda, Lake Kivu, Wildlife, & Chimpanzee Trekking
12 Days Uganda Rwanda and Congo Safari, Chimpanzee trekking, Gorillas, Lake Kivu & Wildlife Trip
In summary, Congo gorilla safaris offer the most thrilling gorilla trekking experience in the East African region. On the Congo safari trip, visitors can spot both Mountain gorillas and rare Lowland gorillas. Nyiragongo volcano hike is also a must not miss adventure on your vacation in Congo.
It’s possible to supplement Congo safaris on your Rwanda tours as well as Uganda wildlife safaris.
