Gorilla tourism in Democratic Republic of Congo takes place in Virunga National Park home to over 250 habituated mountain gorillas and is the Congo potion of the Virunga conservation region, which is also shared by Mgahinga national park in Uganda and Volcanoes national park in Rwanda. All 3 countries are directly inter joined by the Virunga massif.
Less explored and feared by many Africa travelers because of her past insecurities, Congo today is a very safe destination currently taking visitors to visit Eastern part of Congo rich with some of the best spots to visit in Africa.
DR Congo’s Virunga national park is home to 8 habituated gorilla families available for tracking all year round. Just like all 3 locations in central and east Africa where gorilla tourism takes place. Gorilla safaris in Eastern Congo are strictly run gorilla conservation project based on gorilla protection and safety. The guide, trackers, armed guards (to protect against threatening elephants) and porters lead visitors to where a family of the gorillas is located.
Gorilla Trekking in Congo DR
Despite the civil war that crowded the country for long, Congo is appreciating value of security and is currently a peaceful country. Gorilla conservation is at the forehand as the country bounces back to normal and although lots of efforts are required for gorilla conservation, the country is doing what they can to protect the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Gorilla Permits into Congo cost US$400 Per Person, which today stands as the cheapest option to see gorillas in their natural habitat. Uganda’s gorilla permits goes for $700 while Rwanda’s gorilla permits goes for US$1500 Per Person. Congo gorilla trekking offers a cheaper alternative for tourists to meet the rare mountain gorillas and fulfill a life time adventure.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is a land of diversity and is indeed one of the best spots for action packed adventure in Africa. Congo is the place where you can view the world’s largest active lava lake of the Nyiragongo volcano. Hiking tours to the top of mount Nyiragongo are done daily with overnight at the top of the Volcano. Congo is the only country which offers both mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas which can be tracked in Kahuzi Biega national park.
Packing for gorilla trekking
Virunga National Park offers moderate hikes in the jungle forest with through bushes, trees and vines You need a walking stick (s) available at the part offices, good hiking boots, plan for rain, long sleeve shirt is useful when walking in the forest parts, park at least 3 L of water, a snuck, long pants, long socks which you tuck in your pants to prevent insect bites), gloves because if lots of thorns in the forest, hire a porter (available at starting point), take cash to tip the guides.
Accommodation near gorilla trekking areas
Accommodations available include: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Lodge – super luxury accommodations in the heart of Virunga national park, and can sleep in Goma at Hotel Cap Kivu, Lac Kivu Lodge, and Ihusi Hotel.
Cost of Congo Gorilla permits
Those planning to track mountain gorillas in Virunga national park, you are advised to book with one of the best local tour operators and the Congo gorilla permits costs ($400) per person. Mountain gorillas can also be found in Uganda where a gorilla permit is $700 in high season and $700 in low season. For Rwanda, the gorilla permit is sold at $ 1500 for both high season and Low season.
What to Expect On A Gorilla Trip To Congo
Every sight seer should head out on their Congo safari knowing what they hope to discover. The long and uncomfortable journey on plane, in the 4x4s and the epilogues makes this a worthwhile experience not easily forgotten. Congo is an ever- stabilizing state in the world and it is likely to become more and more accessible and popular to the tourists who seek true African authenticity. Thus the time to visit is now.
