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Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Embark on unforgettable Congo Gorilla Tours and safaris and get a glimpse of the rare creatures of eastern lowland gorillas when on the adrenaline-filled activity of lowland gorilla trekking in Congo Kahuzi Biega National Park!
The thrilling lowland gorilla tracking in Congo Kahuzi Biega National Park is a tourist activity that involves hiking on foot and searching for Eastern Lowland Gorillas in their natural habitats while on Congo trips.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1970, is one of Africa’s largest national parks and a vast protected area in the Democratic Republic of Congo, spanning 6,000 square kilometers in the Kivu region managed by the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN), prioritizing conservation and tourism development.
It’s the only place and natural habitat for endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas, with over 200 individuals residing within the park’s borders, making it a vital conservation area and a popular destination for visitors from around the world.
Congo is the only country and only place where you can spot Eastern Lowland gorillas in East Africa in Kahuzi Biega Park, packed with over 250 individuals, including 5 habituated groups for lowland gorilla tracking done while on Congo trips.
This activity typically takes approximately 1-3 hours and is done in guided groups of about 8 people per group after attaining lowland gorilla trek permits from park authorities or through licensed tour operators in the months of mid-May to mid-October and December to March.
This activity can be done in other East African nations and African continent parks such as Virunga National Park, Congo; Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda; Mgahinga National Park, Uganda; and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park Uganda, among others.
Before we delve deep into the details encompassed in the lowland gorilla tracking activity, you need to understand the basics related to where it is done and what is tracked during this activity when on Congo trips.
Kahuzi Biega National Park Congo: Where Is Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking Done When on Congo Trips?
Kahuzi-Biega National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1970, offers lowland gorilla tracking. It is a vast protected area in the Democratic Republic of Congo, spanning 6,000 square kilometers in the Kivu region, making it an ideal destination for experienced tourists seeking a unique experience.
It is situated in the eastern part of DRC and found approximately 50 kilometers west of Bukavu and near Lake Kivu, it’s one of Africa’s largest national parks, stretching from the Congo basin to the Albertine Rift.
The park is managed by the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN) and safeguarded by the national park’s legal status, prioritizing conservation and tourism development.
The park’s varied landscape, featuring rainforests, montane forests, bamboo forests, and savannah grasslands, provides a thriving habitat for lowland gorillas, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers.
The diverse terrain and flora of Kahuzi-Biega National Park create an ideal environment for these majestic giant apes, drawing in explorers and nature lovers from far and wide.
Kahuzi-Biega is also a famous and only natural habitat for endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Central Africa, with over 400 individuals residing within the park’s boundaries, making it a vital conservation area and a popular tourism destination for visitors on Congo trips.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park, named after the majestic Mount Kahuzi (10,853 ft above sea level), and Mount Biega (9,153 ft above sea level), is one of the largest and most renowned game reserves in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Congo Gorilla Tours
Unforgettable Congo trips in DRC mostly center around two major national parks: Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park.
They are ideal and perfect for budget-conscious and adventurous travelers searching for a unique opportunity to explore the lesser-known treasures of Africa.
Congo trips in Virunga National Park, home to eight habituated gorilla families, including Kabirizi, Rugendo, Humba, Mapuwa, Bageni, Lulengo, Munyaga, and Nyakamwe, will offer you a chance to observe the majestic creatures (mountain gorillas) up close. Each permit allows for a maximum of one hour to see where mountain gorillas live, costing $450.
Please note that you can combine your Congo gorilla trekking safari experience with a hike to the largest lava lake at Mount Nyiragongo for an unforgettable adventure.
Additionally, the other Congo gorilla tour involves exploring and tracking the lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park, an easier trekking option.
With over 2 habituated gorilla families of eastern lowland gorillas, including Chimanuka, Mpungwe, Mugahuka, Nganwa, and Bonnani, you will get a chance to see the gentle great apes (eastern lowland gorillas) up close. Each permit goes for $400 per person for a maximum of 1 hour with the Lowland Gorillas.
You can choose from our short/budget Congo Gorilla Tour packages, specifically customized for tourists who want to focus on gorilla trekking without visiting other destinations.
It is worth noting that if interested in western lowland gorillas as well when on Congo gorilla safaris, you have a chance to explore them in Garamba National Park, Salonga National Park, Odzala-Kokoua National Park, and Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park.
Please note that while the DR Congo has experienced volatility in the past, it has become relatively peaceful in recent years, making it an exciting and safe destination for gorilla trekking enthusiasts on Congo gorilla safaris.
Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking on Congo Trips
Venture into the remote areas of the Eastern Congo to encounter the majestic Eastern Lowland Gorillas by engaging in lowland gorilla tracking activities in Congo Kahuzi Biega Park.
This activity involves trekking through the lush forests of Kahuzi Biega National Park to spot habituated gorilla families, including Chimanuka, Mpungwe, Mugahuka, Nganwa, and Bonnani.
You can witness these gentle giants in their natural habitats, with trekking times varying from 30 minutes to 8 hours.
This Congo gorilla safari experience offers a thrilling opportunity to see the Grauer’s gorilla, the largest of the four gorilla subspecies, up close, and diverse biodiversity in Kahuzi Biega Park, etc.
Please note there are other safaris done in Kahuzi Biega National Park when on Congo trips, such as:
- Hiking and Climbing
- Game life viewing safaris
- Birdwatching safaris
- Cultural Encounters and Nature Walks Safaris
- Conservation Efforts and Research
- Photography excursions
- Chimpanzee tracking safaris
- Boat cruise safaris
- Camping Safaris
You can enjoy all these while on Congo trips if you use a reputable Congo operator that will customize an itinerary for you. Contact us now and let us book your next vacation to DRC today!
Top Things to See When Trekking Lowland Gorillas on Kahuzi Biega National Park Gorilla Safari
When on lowland gorilla treks in Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, you can witness and catch glimpses of several attractions along the gorilla trek trails, such as:
The Rare Eastern Lowland Gorilla in Kahuzi
Eastern Lowland gorillas, found only in Kahuzi Biega Park, have distinct physical features and are the largest of the four gorilla subspecies.
The Gorilla genus is divided into two main subspecies: Eastern (Gorilla beringei) and Western gorillas (Gorilla gorilla), found in Equatorial African countries near the equator (Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Congo Brazzaville, Angola, Central African Republic, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo).
These subspecies are further divided into four gorilla subspecies, including eastern lowland gorillas (G.b. graueri), eastern mountain gorillas (G.b. beringei), western lowland gorillas (G.g. gorilla), and western cross river gorillas (G.g. diehli).
Some of the unique eastern lowland gorilla facts are:
- Eastern lowland gorillas share 98.8% of DNA with humans and have unique genetic markers. They are herbivores that eat wild celery, fruits, and other herbaceous materials, have distinct fingerprints, and live in a social gorilla family led by a dominant silverback.
- Lowland gorillas are peaceful and calm, only making loud noises when needed. They aren’t aggressive unless provoked, and males may occasionally clash over females.
- Generally, gorillas use vocalizations and body language to communicate and spend their days socializing through grooming, climbing, and play.
- With only 6,800 individuals in the wild, and over 400+ habituated to be witnessed in their natural habitats, it is a rare experience on Congo trips.
- The Eastern Lowland gorilla’s scientific name is Gorilla beringei graueri, and they are also known as “Grauer’s gorilla” in honor of Rudolf Grauer, who first recognized them as a separate subspecies.
- Both mountain gorillas and eastern lowland gorillas live in groups led by a dominant silverback, with mountain gorilla groups typically being larger (20-30 individuals).
- Females often change groups throughout their lives, while males may leave to find mates or take over as dominant silverbacks.
- Due to their size and weight, gorillas primarily live on the ground, building nests using leaves, shrubs, and tree branches. Juveniles and females may also build nests in trees.
- Eastern lowland gorillas are remarkably intelligent, using tools in the wild, such as testing water depths, and have even learned sign language in captivity.
They are the highlight of a lowland gorilla tracking Congo gorilla safari in Kahuzi Biega.
Other things often seen when on the lowland gorilla treks in Kahuzi Biega National Park and during Congo Gorilla safaris are:
Other Stunning Animal Species in Kahuzi Biega National Park
You will encounter owl-faced monkeys, blue monkeys, chimpanzees, bush buffalo, bongos, aquatic civets, bush elephants, hippopotamuses, colobus monkeys, elusive rare okapis, several antelopes, and olive baboons, among others, when on lowland gorilla tracking Congo trips.
Beautiful Bird Species in Kahuzi Biega Park
You can spot over 342 species, which are grouped and categorized into endemic, montane, raptors, colorful, and waterbirds, making Kahuzi Biega a birding paradise.
- Some of the endemic bird species include the Congo peafowl, Albertine owlet, Ruwenzori turaco, yellow-crested helmet shrike, red-throated alethe, Archer’s robin-chat, Ruwenzori nightjar, Congo serpent eagle, handsome francolin, grey-throated parrot, and green-breasted pitta.
- Also, some of the montane birds include the Rwenzori Apalis, Collared Apalis, Congo Bay Owl, Mountain Marsh Widowbird, Ruwenzori Turaco, African Black Swift, Brown-chested Alethe, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, Red-chested Owlet, and Mountain Buzzard.
- Additionally, the waterbird species that you can spot include the African Grey Heron, Black-headed Heron, Purple Heron, Goliath Heron, Congo Bay Owl, Congo Martin, African Fish Eagle, African Pygmy Goose, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, and Grey-throated Sandpiper, which inhabit the aquatic ecosystems and wetlands.
- The raptors include the crowned eagle, martial eagle, Verreaux’s eagle, African goshawk, white-backed vulture, osprey, African fish eagle, and red-thighed sparrowhawk, which soar through the skies and patrol the land with their sharp talons and keen eyesight.
- Lastly are the colorful birds, which are the regal sunbird, blue-throated macaw, Ross’s turaco, Congo sunbird, green-headed sunbird, eastern needle-clawed galago, red-throated swallow, great blue turaco, and lilac-breasted roller, which display a kaleidoscope of colors and fascinating behaviors.
Stunning Volcano Landscapes in Kahuzi Biega Park
The ecological corridor boasts two prominent mountains:
- Mount Kahuzi, the park’s highest point and the second-highest peak in the Mitumba Range, standing at 3,308 meters (10,853 ft), and
- Mount Biega, a rugged and scenic peak at 2,790 meters (9,153 ft), is renowned for its lush rainforests and stunning vistas.
Engage in a volcano trek to these dormant volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, to revel in the breathtaking views from the summits when on Congo Gorilla safaris.
CRSN, Lwiro Research Center in Kahuzi Biega National Park
Situated just 4 km from Kahuzi Biega National Park in Bukavu town, southeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Lwiro Research Center is a popular attraction for tourists interested in primate conservation.
This center is dedicated to the study and protection of primates, including chimpanzees, bonobos, and endangered eastern lowland gorillas, offering visitors on lowland gorilla treks in Kahuzi Biega National Park a unique opportunity to learn about conservation efforts and observe these incredible animals up close when on lowland gorilla treks and Congo trips.
Beautiful Diverse Flora in Kahuzi Biega
While on lowland gorilla tracking Congo safaris, you can explore varied flora landscapes found in this protected area, Kahuzi Biega Park.
These include lush primary tropical rainforests featuring riparian forests, mahogany, ebony, and sapelli trees; mountain forests with bamboo, hypericum, and tree ferns; savannah grasslands dotted with acacia trees and wildflowers; and vibrant swamps and marshes teeming with papyrus, reeds, and other aquatic plants.
Lakes and Rivers in Kahuzi Biega National Park
On a lowland gorilla tracking adventure on Congo trips, you can explore the stunning waterways of Lake Kivu, Lake Kahuzi, River Luka, and River Lugulu.
Enjoy breathtaking views, immerse yourself in wild fauna encounters with crocodiles, hippopotamuses, and water birds, and discover diverse aquatic life.
These waterways are home to various species, making them ideal for activities like sport fishing.
Rules and Regulations for Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park-Congo Trips
When embarking on a lowland gorilla tracking safari, you need to understand that you are required to follow Kahuzi Biega Park rules, which fall in:
Before You Go
- Obtain a valid gorilla permit from park management offices or through reputable Congo tour operators.
- Explore the park with authorized guides or armed rangers for safety and conservation.
When Gorilla Trekking
- Age restriction (Participants aged 15 years and above are allowed)
- Good health required (illness may prohibit tracking)
- Reasonable fitness level needed
- Security restrictions may apply
- No flash photography (personal video recorders allowed)
Park Etiquette
- Follow designated trails to avoid damaging vegetation and habitats.
- No littering (keep all waste out of the park)
- Keep a safe distance from animals.
- No feeding or touching animals
- No hunting or fishing allowed
Additional Guidelines
- Camp in designated areas and follow rules.
- Respect local communities and their customs.
- No tree cutting or removal allowed
Procedures Taken for an Ultimate Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking Safari in Congo Kahuzi Biega National Park
The lowland gorilla tracking experience in Kahuzi-Biega National Park begins with a comprehensive and detailed briefing at the Tshivanga Visitor Centre, located just outside the park entrance.
During the briefing, the park rangers or guides will review the essential rules and regulations for lowland gorilla tracking, share fascinating facts about the gorilla families, and provide insight into their habitat and terrain.
Following the briefing, visitors will embark on a guided hike through designated trails in pursuit of the target gorilla group.
As Eastern Lowland gorillas are constantly on the move, locating them may take approximately one to two hours.
The first sighting is often the energetic youngsters, playfully frolicking in the underbrush, followed by the majestic appearance of the dominant silverback, who always first assesses the presence of any potential threats to the family.
If all is well, he will graciously permit the trekkers to observe the family for a captivating hour, allowing for unforgettable observations and photo opportunities.
Duration for Lowland Gorilla Treks in Kahuzi Biega National Park, Congo
The lowland gorilla tracking duration varies based on factors like gorilla location, movement, trekker fitness, and weather. Some of the trek durations include:
- Short treks: 1-2 hours
- Medium treks: 2-4 hours
- Long treks: 4-6 hours
Please note that for a smooth and unforgettable experience,
- Book park rangers who will locate gorillas quickly.
- Maximize observation time, as it is approximately 1 hour.
- Trek duration may vary due to gorilla movement and trekker fitness so be patient.
Compare Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Congo and Mountain Gorilla Trekking Congo Safaris: What Sets Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trek Safaris Apart from Mountain Gorilla Safaris?
Here we delve into how both Safari experiences are alike or differ from one another as explained below.
Similarities
- Both safari experiences have quite the same rules and regulations they follow, such as keeping a distance of 8 meters from the primates and limiting group size (4 for Eastern lowland, 8 for mountain gorillas), aimed to prevent disease transmission.
- For both safaris, visitors must come prepared with appropriate, comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, water, snacks, and a high-quality camera.
Differences
- Mountain gorilla trekking can only be done in Uganda (Bwindi and Mgahinga parks), Rwanda (Volcanoes NP), and DR Congo (Virunga NP), while lowland gorilla tracking in DRC is only done in Kahuzi Biega Game Park.
- Approximately 1,000 mountain gorillas can be tracked, which is fewer than the 5,000 Eastern lowland gorillas available to be tracked when on Congo trips.
- Tracking the mountain gorilla is more organized, with more habituated families (14 in Uganda alone) easily accessible, unlike the few habituated gorilla families for lowland gorillas.
- Mountain gorilla trekking has a higher success rate due to the relatively stable habitat of the mountain gorilla and slower movement.
- Mountain gorilla trekking permits are more expensive (up to $1,500 in Rwanda and $800 in Uganda), while an eastern lowland gorilla permit is more affordable ($400).
How To Get to Kahuzi Biega National Park for Lowland Gorilla Tracking During Congo Trips?
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to get to Kahuzi Biega for lowland gorilla tracking safaris:
By Road
- Fly into Bukavu Airport (BKY) from Kinshasa (FKI), Kampala (EBB), or Kigali Airport.
- Hire a 4×4 vehicle or book a transfer with a licensed tour operator to cover the 30-40 km distance to the park’s entrance (1-2 hours).
- Complete the necessary formalities at the park’s office, including obtaining gorilla trekking permits and hiring authorized guides or armed rangers.
Note: Roads can be rough and slippery during the rainy season (March-May and September-November), making navigation challenging.
By Boat
- Take a boat cruise from Bukavu town to the park’s eastern entrance (2-3 hours).
- This alternative route is useful if roads become impassable, especially during the rainy season.
Costs may vary depending on the boat type chosen.
By Air
- Take a chartered flight from Kavumu Airstrip to Kahuzi Biega Park.
- Report to the Tshivanga visitors’ reception center at the park headquarters.
It’s strongly recommended to consult with a tour company to determine the most affordable and accessible option for your needs.
Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park: Costs, Fees, and Tariffs
Some of the related or estimated costs you might incur when on lowland gorilla treks on Congo trips are:
Lowland Gorilla Trek Permit Fees and Entrance Fees
The trekking permits may go for about $400-$500 per person, while the entrance fees range from $50-$100 per person depending on several factors such as season, activities, etc.
Guided Tour Costs
Depending on the tour operator used and services subscribed to, the cost of guided lowland gorilla tracking in DR Congo Kahuzi varies between $1,500 and $2,500 per person for a 3–5-day trek.
Accommodation Costs
Depending on the safari lodge or camp chosen in your safari package, whether budget, midrange, or luxury, the prices may vary from $50 to $200 per night.
Transportation Costs
Depending on the location or starting point and mode of transport chosen (private or public transport) in the safari package or lone drives (half drive or full drive), the costs range from $100 to $300 per person.
Equipment and Gear Costs
The costs of these depend highly on the quality and brand, hire or purchase options and the costs may range from $100 to $300 per person.
Therefore, to avoid this cost, you are encouraged to carry your own equipment and activity gear.
Miscellaneous Costs
These may include food, drinks, and other expenses and may go from $200 to $500 per person depending on the choices chosen.
Therefore, it is worth noting that the total estimated cost for Lowland gorilla tracking Congo Kahuzi Biega safaris varies between $2,550 and $5,300 per person. Contact us now and book your next safari!
Kahuzi Biega Accommodation and Safari Lodges: Where to Stay When on Lowland Gorilla Trekking Congo Safaris in Kahuzi Biega National Park?
The accommodation options range from luxury and midrange to budget options. You can choose any of these available options as per your budget for a comfortable stay while on lowland gorilla tracking safaris.
Coco Lodge Bukavu: Mid-range lodge with 8 African-themed rooms, self-contained with TVs, restaurant, lounges, private bar, and VIP lounge.
L’Orchids Safari Club: Offers budget and luxury options, starting at $90. Enjoy scenic views, wildlife, and activities like bird watching, nature walks through the tea plantations or park-dense forests, and white-water rafting. Facilities include spacious rooms, bathrooms, a lounge, a restaurant, helicopter hire, a shopping center, and a swimming pool.
Lake Side Hotel Bukavu: A 4-star hotel with spacious bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar. Located near Lake Kivu and Kahuzi Biega National Park.
Hotel Begonias Bukavu: A 4-star hotel within Bukavu town next to Kahuzi Biega Park with spacious, air-conditioned rooms, a large swimming pool, a 24-hour front desk, room services, balcony rooms with great views, a children’s playground, Wi-Fi, and a restaurant serving Chinese, African, and American cuisine.
Exodus Hotel Bukavu: A budget-friendly option with multilingual staff offering excellent services, balconies with sitting areas, flat-screen TVs, a restaurant, a bar, free Wi-Fi, and a children’s playground.
Other safari lodging options include:
Lwiro Village Guesthouse | Hotel Horizon Bukavu |
Hotel La Roche Bukavu | Kahuzi Biega Lodge |
Ziralo Lodge | Lake Kivu Serena Hotel |
Maravilla Kivu Eco Resort | Bush camp at Kahuzi Biega NP |
Kahuzi Biega NP Campsite | Lulimbi Tented Camp |
You can inquire about other suitable safari lodges at the Tshivanga Visitor Centre at the park headquarters.
Please note that booking lodging options that offer the best services in advance is an added advantage.
Best Time for Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park Congo Gorilla Safari
The best time for lowland gorilla tracking in DR Congo’s Kahuzi Biega National Park is during the dry seasons, which run from June to August and December to February.
These months offer ideal trekking conditions, characterized by less rainfall, easier terrain navigation, and increased visibility of the gorillas basking at water sources and in their natural habitats.
However, it’s worth noting that the park is open year-round, and gorilla treks can also be conducted during the wet seasons (March to May and September to November) as well. But, be prepared for more challenging terrain and potential rain.
What Makes Kahuzi Biega National Park the Best Destination for Lowland Gorilla Treks? | Congo Trips
Kahuzi Biega National Park is considered one of the best destinations for lowland gorilla tracking because of these unique aspects:
- The park boasts massive flora characterized by high-altitude rainforests as well as those in lowland areas, with different vegetation zones supporting a wide range of animal life, including montane forests (bamboo, hypericum), savannah grasslands, etc.
- It is a vital sanctuary and one of the last natural habitats for endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas, with an estimated number of over 400 lowland gorillas inhabiting the park.
- The park is relatively easy to access, with nearby cities like Bukavu and Kivu perfect for visitors to reach when on Congo trips.
- The park offers a unique trekking experience, guided by experienced guides and porters available to assist visitors all through the trekking safari.
- Kahuzi Biega National Park is involved in massive conservation initiatives, protecting the lowland gorillas and their habitats. These are worth witnessing when on a lowland gorilla tracking experience.
- The park boasts beautiful scenery, with lush forests, waterfalls, and mountains that make the lowland gorilla tracking safari colorful.
- Kahuzi Biega Game Park has some of the best basic tourism infrastructure and accommodations, including lodges and campsites visitors can stay at while on lowland gorilla tracking safaris without worry.
Threats Posed on Congo Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega
Some of the threats posing a great danger to the continuity of the lowland gorilla tracking activity in Kahuzi Biega National Park are:
1) Habitat loss and fragmentation because of human activities like deforestation and agriculture expansion make it difficult for gorillas to find food, shelter, and mates and therefore die from starvation, which will leave few to no individuals to observe.
2) The major highlights of a lowland gorilla trek are that the eastern lowland gorillas are severely hunted for bushmeat, and the baby gorilla is often captured for the illegal pet trade, reducing population numbers, which affects the continuity of this activity.
3) Due to the proximity of the gorillas to humans, humans can transmit diseases like Ebola, COVID-19, and respiratory infections to them, since they have no immunity, and this often leads to massive deaths of these gentle apes.
Other threats posed are:
- Human-gorilla conflict
- Illegal mining and drilling
- Political instability and violence
- Unfavorable climate change
- Unregulated tourism disrupting gorilla habitats
- Lack of resources and support
- Human community encroachment
These threats pose significant risks to the continuation of lowland gorilla tracking in Congo’s Kahuzi Biega National Park, highlighting the need for sustainable conservation and tourism practices to protect gorillas and their habitats.
Kahuzi Conservation Efforts
The Eastern Lowland gorilla is listed as critically endangered on the IUCN list because it faces numerous threats to its survival as listed above.
However, conservation efforts offer hope for the species’ survival as several dedicated researchers, the DRC government, and organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) are working tirelessly to protect the Eastern Lowland gorilla, securing funding and raising awareness about the urgent need for enhanced monitoring and conservation measures.
What To Wear for Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Congo Kahuzi Biega National Park, Virunga National Park Congo Trips
Before embarking on a lowland gorilla tracking safari in Kahuzi Biega National Park, it’s essential to pack the following items that you can wear while on this tourist activity:
- Neutral-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants
- Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
- Insulating layers (fleece, wool, or synthetic)
- Comfortable hiking boots or shoes
- Socks and extra underwear
- Hat and gloves for cooler mornings and evenings
- Scarf or bandana
Please note that it is strongly advised that you avoid wearing perfume or cologne and consider wearing a rain poncho or bringing an umbrella when on a Congo gorilla safari.
Packing List for Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Congo Kahuzi Biega | Personal Essentials for Congo Gorilla Tours
Pack and bring any of these items on the checklist if you like, but only if they’re necessary for the activity you’ve chosen.
- Pack relevant documents, i.e., a valid passport with a valid DR Congo visa for entering Congo, a Kahuzi Biega Park activity checklist, and a map of Kahuzi Biega National Park.
- Carry some photography gear like binoculars (7x/8x magnification), a camera with a telephoto lens (200 mm+), a tripod/monopod, extra batteries, memory cards, and a lens cleaning cloth.
- Additionally, you can carry some personal/safety items that include a water bottle/hydration pack, snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruits), sunscreen and insect repellent cream, a first-aid kit, a headlamp/flashlight, and a whistle/emergency signaling device.
- Alternatively, you can carry these additional items if you feel they are important or if recommended by the tour operator, i.e., a walking stick/hiking stick, a backpack/daypack for carrying gear, waterproof bags/covers for equipment, and camping gear (if staying overnight).
- But most importantly, carry some local currency (Congolese francs) for tips/incidentals and shopping for crafts and souvenirs.
For more clarity and to avoid extra charges on unwanted gear packed, consult your Congo safari operator.
Kahuzi Biega National Park Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Congo FAQ [Frequently Asked Questions]
How Much Does It Cost to Go Gorilla Trekking in Congo?
It is worth noting that a Congo gorilla trekking safari may cost between $2,550 and $5,300 per person after all necessary bookings are done, such as park entry fees, activity fees, gorilla permits ($400) are attained, accommodation and transport booked, etc.
Is Gorilla Trekking in DRC Safe? Is Gorilla Trekking in The Congo Safe?
DR Congo gorilla trekking is completely safe as long as you are accompanied by a trained park guide or armed rangers, follow park guidelines, and take certain precautions.
What Is the Safest Country for Gorilla Trekking?
Uganda is considered the safest country for trekking gorillas due to its stable political environment, well-established tourism infrastructure, strong conservation efforts, low crime rate, experienced guides and rangers, and clear guidelines and regulations, making it a preferred destination over Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
How Far Do You Have to Be from Gorillas When Trekking?
When Congo gorilla trekking, you are strongly advised to maintain a safe distance of at least 7 meters (23 feet) from the gorillas, and if they approach, stay calm and follow guide instructions while avoiding touching or feeding them to ensure a safe and respectful experience.
Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money?
Indeed, gorilla trekking in Congo or other neighboring countries is a worthwhile investment as it provides a unique and remarkable chance to closely observe lowland and mountain gorillas in their natural habitats.
Is It Safe to Go to Kahuzi Biega National Park?
Kahuzi Biega National Park, though once having had a troubled past, now, thanks to enhanced security measures, is now considered safe for visitors.
Some of the security measures used by the park management to keep visitors and animals safe are the deployment of armed escorts, regular patrols, secure accommodations, and an emphasis on guided tours.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Gorillas?
The costs of a gorilla trekking experience vary across the three countries, with gorilla permits costing across the Democratic Republic of Congo ($400), Uganda ($800 standard), and Rwanda ($1,500 standard), with additional costs for lodging, meals, transportation, and park entry, and an optional habituation permit ($1,500) for an extended safari experience.
Let us take care of all the details! With Prime Safaris and Tour Ltd, we’ll organize your entire lowland gorilla trekking in Congo gorilla tour, from accommodation and transportation to guides and permits, so you can focus on making unforgettable memories.