Experience Congo Gorilla Tours & Safaris in Virunga & Kahuzi-Biega

Congo Gorilla Trekking: A Guide for Tourists

Congo gorilla trekking is a fantastic experience for tourists on Congo safaris and holiday tours, offering the opportunity to immerse themselves in lush rainforests to see both mountain gorillas and Eastern lowland gorillas.

This DR Congo gorilla trekking guide provides all the essential information you need to plan a lifetime visit to see gorillas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Gorilla trekking in Congo is magical and an unforgettable experience. Encountering gorillas in their natural habitat is simply a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Gorilla trekking safaris in Congo take place in Virunga National Park, a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site where a portion of the world’s 1,063 mountain gorillas live, and Kahuzi-Biega National Park, home to lowland gorillas.

An estimated population of about 300 mountain gorillas thrives within the vast 7,800 sq km rainforest of Virunga National Park, with 8 habituated gorilla groups available for trekking.

You can also visit Kahuzi-Biega National Park during your Congo gorilla trekking safaris to trek Eastern lowland gorillas in their natural habitat. Kahuzi-Biega comprises about 5 habituated families: Bonnani, Nganwa, Moungwe, Mugaruka, and Chimanuka. More lowland gorillas are still being habituated for tourism purposes.

You can plan your Congo gorilla safaris using these recommended gorilla trekking companies (divided into budget gorilla tour operators and luxury gorilla tour operators) or through general Congo safari companies.

Congo Gorilla Trekking Regulations

To ensure an enjoyable Congo gorilla trekking experience, you must observe certain rules and regulations, also known as etiquette, guidelines, or safety measures. These include:

• Maintain a social distance of 7-10m from the gorillas at all times.
• A maximum of 8 visitors are allowed to trek one habituated gorilla family per day.
• Only adults aged 15 years and above are eligible to purchase a Congo gorilla permit.
• A maximum of 1 hour is permitted for spending time with the gorillas. During this time, you can take photographs and learn more about the social life and behavior of the gorillas in the wild.
• Do not go trekking for mountain gorillas or lowland gorillas if you are sick or feeling unwell.
• Avoid making noise during your search for the gorillas.
• The use of flash photography is strictly prohibited on Congo gorilla trekking adventures.
• Do not eat, smoke, or drink in the presence of gorillas.
• The gorilla habitat must be kept clean or in better condition than you found it.
• A valid gorilla permit is required to participate in a Congo gorilla trekking safari. Each Congo gorilla permit costs USD 400 per person. These can be obtained through recommended gorilla safari companies or directly from the park authorities in DR Congo.

Difference Between D.R. Congo and the Republic of Congo

Many travelers are still unaware that the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Congo are two entirely different countries.

These two African nations are divided by the Congo River, one of Africa’s most beautiful and famous natural wonders, located in Central Africa and flowing into the Atlantic Ocean.

Other factors also distinguish the two countries. The name “Congo” is derived from the Bakongo, a Bantu tribe that lives in both countries.

The capital city of D.R. Congo is Kinshasa, while the capital of the Republic of Congo is Brazzaville.

D.R. Congo is the 3rd largest country in Africa, whereas the Republic of Congo is smaller and has a population of around 5 million, compared to over 89 million in D.R. Congo.

Both countries attained independence in 1960, although they were colonized by different powers. D.R. Congo was colonized by Belgium, while the Republic of Congo was colonized by France. To this day, the two nations use different currencies.

In the Republic of Congo, the Central African CFA franc is the official currency, while in D.R. Congo, both the U.S. dollar and Congolese francs are commonly used.

However, in both countries, French is the official language, and Lingala is the primary local language.

Despite this linguistic similarity, D.R. Congo and the Republic of Congo have several other ethnic languages. In Congo-Brazzaville, languages such as Teke, Mbochi, and Kituba are spoken, while in D.R. Congo, over 20 ethnic languages exist, including Swahili, Tshiluba, Kikongo, and Lingala, to name just a few.

Locals refer to the Republic of Congo as Congo-Brazzaville, while D.R. Congo is commonly known as Congo-Kinshasa.

The History of D.R. Congo

Like most African states, D.R. Congo has been shaped both geographically and socially, especially by European colonists during the Scramble for Africa from 1881 to 1914.

In the 15th century, the Congo River Delta became a major commercial hub for trade and a center where the first inhabitants of the Congo began interacting with Europeans.

Belgium was the first to claim the Congo territory, then known as the Zaire region, around 1885, and the land became the private property of King Leopold II.

In 1908, the land was taken over by the Belgian government and renamed Belgian Congo. By 1960, it gained independence and became the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with Kinshasa as its capital city.

Unfortunately, under the governance of Mobutu, D.R. Congo became one of the world’s poorest and most disadvantaged states, despite its wealth of natural minerals.

To the west of the Congo River lies the smaller and more politically stable Republic of Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville, which was claimed by the French in the 1880s.

Brazzaville, the capital city, gained independence on 15th August 1960, and the country was renamed the Republic of the Congo.

Today, the two countries are easily distinguished by their capital cities: Congo-Brazzaville (Republic of Congo) and Congo-Kinshasa (DRC).

Geography & Getting Around

The dense tropical forest of Central Africa lies within the Congo Basin, often referred to as the “second lung of the world” after Brazil’s Amazon rain-forest.

This area is home to chimpanzees, western lowland gorillas, hippos, buffaloes, unique bongo antelopes, and forest elephants, among other animals.

The region is rich in biodiversity, making it an exceptional hotspot to explore in Africa.

The Republic of Congo-Brazzaville is located along the western part of the Congo River. It is relatively stable, making Brazzaville one of the most visited cities for tourists in DR Congo.

Most tourists visit Odzala-Kokoua National Park for gorilla trekking. The park covers over 13,000 sq km and is home to many important species, especially the western lowland gorillas, with several families already habituated.

Brazzaville is often referred to as the “Little Paris of Africa” and is known for its French culture, vibrant markets, and beautiful architecture. The city is inhabited by warm, welcoming, and friendly local residents.

On the eastern side of the Congo River lies the vast D.R. Congo, which shares a lush rainforest with the Republic of Congo.

However, some challenges, such as poor infrastructure and political unrest, make it difficult to explore this vast region.

With the presence of the UN and other security organizations, there is some hope for peace in the region.

Virunga National Park is a major tourist attraction, known for mountain gorilla trekking safaris.

Safety and Security in Congo

Congo is open to travelers, but they must exercise caution. It is important to get in touch with the embassy to learn about the current security situation before making any travel plans.

Congo, like any other country, is not 100% safe. Travelers should check the latest security alerts online or consult the embassy before finalizing their plans.

There have been instances where foreign nationals were detained or had their passports seized by local authorities, often due to commercial disputes or immigration offenses.

All travelers are advised to be extremely cautious, especially when dealing with commercial disputes, and to always seek legal advice before proceeding with any agreements.

Unfortunately, Congolese authorities do not always meet their international obligations to notify the respective embassies when foreign nationals are detained.

Even when requests are made, consular access is often inadequate. This is why it is essential to stay in regular contact with family or close friends, who can notify your home embassy in Kinshasa if any incidents occur while in D.R. Congo.

You are also advised to avoid joining public gatherings or demonstrations in Kinshasa, Goma, or other parts of Congo.

Protests are often aimed at government or UN vehicles and premises. The security situation in eastern D.R. Congo remains unstable, and travelers should remain vigilant.

Travelers are also advised to be cautious of street crime and armed robbery, particularly in Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and other major cities, as well as around hotels and supermarkets in town centers.

Why Visit Congo?

Despite the insecurity, DR Congo is a unique destination. The country offers something distinct from the rest of the world, which explains why most tourists find themselves there despite the numerous travel alerts.

DR Congo boasts exceptional parks and unique gorilla trekking experiences—visitors can enjoy both mountain gorilla trekking and lowland gorilla trekking, among many other activities.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking vs. Lowland Gorilla Trekking

Mountain gorilla trekking and lowland gorilla trekking are two distinct primate adventures that tourists can enjoy on a Congo gorilla safari.

Mountain gorilla trekking involves hiking to see mountain gorillas, while lowland gorilla trekking takes you on a trek to see Eastern lowland gorillas or Western lowland gorillas, without the need for intense hiking.

Mountain gorilla trekking is available only in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo, specifically in four parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in eastern DR Congo.

Lowland gorillas exist in several Western African states and are considered some of the hardest primates to habituate.

Gorilla treks to see lowland gorillas are available in DR Congo’s lush Kahuzi-Biega National Park, located in the eastern region near Bukavu City, south of Lake Kivu.

Hiking Nyiragongo Mountain

Hiking Nyiragongo Mountain offers an unforgettable experience and is a must-do on any Congo gorilla trekking safari. This adventure takes you to the magnificent Nyiragongo volcano summit, one of the world’s most dangerous and active volcanoes.

Mount Nyiragongo, standing at 3,470 meters above sea level, is DR Congo’s top attraction and one of the eight Virunga volcanoes within the Virunga Conservation Area.

Other Virunga Mountains include Mount Bisoke, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, Mount Nyamuragira, Mount Karisimbi, Mount Mikeno, and Mount Muhabura.

Mt. Nyiragongo is located in eastern DR Congo, overlooking the scenic Virunga National Park. The hike to the summit takes about 5-7 hours, with an overnight stay at the summit required.

Overnight accommodations are typically at the Nyiragongo Volcano Cabins, which include 12 summit camps.

Permits for Nyiragongo mountain hikes cost USD 300 and can be purchased through recommended Congo tour operators or directly through Virunga National Park authorities.

In addition to a hiking permit, you’ll need a good camera, rain jacket, sleeping bag, comfortable hiking boots, a charger, a flashlight, a daypack, a first aid kit, bottled water, snacks, comfortable clothing, and other essentials.

Hiking Nyiragongo Mountain can be done year-round, but the best time is during the dry months from June to September or December to February.

Other Tourist Activities and Destinations in Eastern Congo

Other activities to enjoy in Eastern Congo include bird watching in Virunga National Park, bonobo chimpanzee trekking, waterfall hikes, and mountain climbing in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

Virunga National Park is home to several bird species such as speckled mousebirds, paradise flycatchers, olive pigeons, Kivu ground thrushes, blue-headed coucals, and many more.

DR Congo also offers unique cultural experiences, where visitors can enjoy the best of Africa’s cultures, traditions, lifestyles, dances, and more. These can be experienced on village and community walks.

When to Visit Congo

Congo is open to tourists year-round, but understanding the ideal time for a Congo safari based on the weather is important. Knowing the seasonal weather patterns makes it easier to plan your trip.

Congo experiences equatorial and tropical climates, with average daytime temperatures rising to 24°C and dropping to 16°C at night.

The longest rainy season occurs from October to December, while the longest dry season runs from May to September, which is considered the best time for gorilla trekking. The short dry season, from January to February, is also an ideal time for gorilla trekking.

How to Get to Congo

There are several ways for tourists to reach Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

By road: Virunga National Park is located about 32 km west of Goma, the capital of North Kivu. Traveling from Goma to Virunga can be arranged through the park authorities or a local tour operator.

There are several routes to Virunga, including a 4-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda, via Gisenyi Town. The drive from Gisenyi to Goma takes approximately 1 hour.

From Uganda, tourists can travel from Kisoro through the Bunagana border, which is only a 30-minute drive to the Bukima Sector, where gorilla treks in Virunga National Park begin.

By air: Travelers to Virunga National Park can fly from Europe to Goma International Airport via Istanbul, Amsterdam, Zurich, or Paris. Airlines serving Goma include Swiss Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Kenya Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, and Air France.

By water: Ferries operate between Bukavu and Goma via Idjwi Island on Lake Kivu. A private boat ride takes about 3 hours, while public boats take 4-5 hours.

Once you arrive in Goma, a driver-guide will transfer you to Virunga National Park in a 4×4 Safari Vehicle. Public boat fares range from USD 300 to 400, while slower boats cost around USD 50.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is about a 1.5-hour drive from Bukavu, approximately 40 km away.

Alternatively, you can fly to Miti/Kavumu Airport and drive to the park, or fly from Kigali to Kamembe/Rusizi and access Congo via Bukavu town.

Nyiragongo Volcano is safely accessible via the Gisenyi Town-Rwanda route, located 20 km from the Rwanda-DR Congo border. From Goma, drive to the trailhead at Kibati Village, where the pre-hike briefing is conducted.

What You Should Know About Border Crossing to D.R. Congo

• A valid yellow fever certificate is required.
• Ensure all your paperwork is in order.
• Check the state’s travel advice and tour information guide before your trip. Visas should be applied for in advance.
• Avoid traveling at night while in Congo.

Where to Stay: Accommodation in Congo

Accommodation options range from budget to luxury, catering to visitors before or after Congo gorilla trekking adventures.

In Virunga National Park, you can stay at Kibumba Tented Camp, Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, or Tchegera Island Tented Camp.

For those trekking Eastern Lowland gorillas, accommodations include Exodus Bukavu Hotel, Coco Lodge, L’Orchids Safari Club (in Bukavu town), and others.

Popular Congo Gorilla Tour Questions

Here are 30 frequently asked questions and answers about Congo gorilla trekking:

1. What is Congo gorilla trekking? Congo gorilla trekking is an adventurous experience where tourists hike in the rainforests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to see mountain and Eastern lowland gorillas.
2. Where does gorilla trekking in Congo take place? Gorilla trekking in Congo occurs in Virunga National Park for mountain gorillas and Kahuzi-Biega National Park for lowland gorillas.
3. How many mountain gorillas live in Virunga National Park? There are about 300 mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park.
4. How many habituated gorilla groups are there in Virunga National Park? There are 8 habituated gorilla groups available for trekking in Virunga National Park.
5. What types of gorillas can be trekked in Kahuzi-Biega National Park? Eastern lowland gorillas can be trekked in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.
6. How many habituated lowland gorilla families exist in Kahuzi-Biega National Park? There are 5 habituated lowland gorilla families in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.
7. What is the cost of a Congo gorilla trekking permit? A Congo gorilla trekking permit costs USD 400 per person.
8. How long can you spend with the gorillas during trekking? You are allowed to spend a maximum of 1 hour with the gorillas.
9. How far should visitors stay from gorillas during trekking? Visitors should maintain a distance of 7-10 meters from the gorillas.
10. What is the minimum age to participate in gorilla trekking in Congo? The minimum age to participate is 15 years old.
11. What is prohibited during Congo gorilla trekking? Flash photography, eating, drinking, and smoking in the presence of gorillas are prohibited.
12. What should you do if you are sick before your gorilla trekking adventure? You should not go trekking if you are sick or feeling unwell.
13. What is the major difference between mountain gorilla and lowland gorilla trekking? Mountain gorilla trekking usually involves more hiking, while lowland gorilla trekking is less physically demanding.
14. Which country is larger: D.R. Congo or the Republic of Congo? D.R. Congo is the larger of the two countries.
15. What is the capital of D.R. Congo? The capital of D.R. Congo is Kinshasa.
16. What is the official language spoken in both Congo countries? French is the official language in both the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Congo.
17. What are the two major currencies used in D.R. Congo? The U.S. dollar and Congolese francs are commonly used in D.R. Congo.
18. What is Virunga National Park famous for besides gorilla trekking? Virunga National Park is also famous for its biodiversity, including hippos, elephants, and unique species like the bongo antelope.
19. When is the best time for gorilla trekking in Congo? The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, from June to September or December to February.
20. How do travelers typically reach Virunga National Park? Travelers can reach Virunga National Park by road, air, or boat, with Goma serving as a common entry point.
21. What is required to enter Congo besides a passport? A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Congo.
22. What safety precautions should tourists follow when visiting Congo? Tourists should avoid demonstrations, stay vigilant, and consult their embassy or security alerts before traveling.
23. What is the significance of Nyiragongo Mountain in Congo? Nyiragongo Mountain is a popular attraction known for being one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
24. How much does a permit cost for hiking Nyiragongo Mountain? A Nyiragongo Mountain hiking permit costs USD 300.
25. What are the accommodation options in Virunga National Park? Accommodation options include Kibumba Tented Camp, Mikeno Lodge, and Bukima Tented Camp.
26. What should travelers carry for a Nyiragongo Mountain hike? Essentials include a camera, rain jacket, hiking boots, flashlight, and bottled water.
27. How long does it take to hike to the summit of Nyiragongo Mountain? The hike to the summit takes about 5-7 hours.
28. What is Congo-Brazzaville often called? Congo-Brazzaville is often referred to as the “Little Paris of Africa.”
29. What activities can be done in addition to gorilla trekking in Eastern Congo? Additional activities include bird watching, chimpanzee trekking, waterfall hikes, and cultural experiences.
30. What are the two main tourist attractions for gorilla trekking in Congo? The main attractions are Virunga National Park for mountain gorillas and Kahuzi-Biega National Park for lowland gorillas.