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Gorilla Trekking Congo- Step by Step guide to book gorilla safari in Congo.
As experts in road trips within Africa, then during our adventure into the wild of Congo to see the rare Eastern lowland gorillas which are only found in Dr Congo in the entire world , and seeing the mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park is a rare gem to see the primates of Africa.
Congo Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that offers an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you are trekking in Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega, it’s important to be well-prepared for the physical demands of the trek and the unique environment. With the right gear and knowledge, you’ll be ready to enjoy an unforgettable experience in the wild.
Gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) provides a rare chance to observe one of the world’s most endangered species in its natural environment. This is the only country that has both mountain and eastern lowland gorillas. The trek takes you deep into the Congo rainforest, where you will navigate through dense forests and rugged terrain to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas. The main trekking locations in DRC are Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biéga National Park. Here, several habituated mountain gorilla groups live within Virunga National Park, but this has been closed to tourists since March 2020. Initially, this was due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but more recently it has been for security reasons. The park looks unlikely to reopen in the foreseeable future. During the trek, a maximum number of eight people will be allowed to visit each gorilla family in a day. After locating the gorillas a maximum of one hour to observe them and take photographs while obeying the set rules and regulations and once the guide suspects danger like the gorillas seem uncomfortable or charged he ends the visit.
Gorilla Trekking Rwanda
Plan a Luxury gorilla safari in Rwanda to visit the Mountain gorillas in the wild of Volcanoes National Park while on Private guided safari in Africa with 4wd Africa.
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Gorilla Trekking Guide & Tips
BEST TIME TO VIST
Gorilla trekking in Congo is available year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. During these periods, the weather is more predictable, and the forest trails are less muddy, making trekking easier. The rainy seasons, from March to May and October to November, are still an option for the more adventurous but be prepared for challenging conditions with slippery terrain. However, the rainforest is at its most vibrant during these months, and fewer tourists can lead to a more solitary experience with the gorillas.
THE COST OF THE GORILLA PERMITS IN DRC
The cost of a trekking permit for Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park is at 400 USD per person, which supports ongoing conservation efforts for the gorillas.
HOW TO ACQUIRE THE DRC GORILLA PERMIT?
Gorilla permits can be obtained through a trusted tour operator/ travel agency way in advance book a permit 3 months before trek day, especially if you are traveling in dry months because the demands for such months are high and this permit is valid for 1 day.
Kahuzi Biega National Park is home to some 250 eastern lowland gorillas. Kahuzi Biega is the only place where you can track eastern lowland gorillas, which are unique to the DRC and occur in no other country. Kahuzi Biega is a short drive from the pretty town of Bukavu, which lies on the shore of Lake Kivu and has some good accommodations in old colonial mansions. Compared to Uganda and Rwanda, it’s a little-visited and rather adventurous option. It is also relatively cheap, with permits. It should be emphasized that the DRC is a volatile country, so it’s advisable to monitor the security situation and to track gorillas here on an organized trip.
Virunga National Park
A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs US$ 800 for foreign non-residents in 2025, African Citizens cost 500$$ and East African Citizens its 100$
How to Secure Gorilla Trekking Permit
The Uganda gorilla permits are sold by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) as the sole government entity and the new rules of Uganda tourism board only allows travelers to secure gorilla permits through licensed tour operators by UTB and 4wd Africa is among them and ready to help you secure the gorilla permit for ultimate gorilla trekking experience .
HOW TO ACCESS THE GORILLA TREKKING PARKS IN DRC
Both Virunga and Kahuzi Biega national park can be accessed by air and road transport: By Air the nearest major airport to Kahuzi-Biega is Bukavu Airport (BKY), which is about 50 km away from the park. Bukavu can be reached by flights from cities like Kinshasa (the capital of DRC) or Goma and by road from Bukavu, you can take a car or a 4×4 vehicle to the park entrance. The road conditions may vary, so it’s recommended to have a guide or a driver familiar with the area, however still for Kahuzi you can opt for a boat transfer because Bukavu is located on Lake Kivu, and you can also reach it via boat from Goma.
For visitors heading to Virunga National Park, Goma is the closest city and can be accessed by air from Kinshasa or other regional airports, with connections to Kahuzi-Biega by road or boat.
Gorilla Trekking Guide & Tips
RULES AND REGULATIONS IN TRACKING GORILLAS IN DRC
- You must be at least 15 years old to track gorillas to avoid transmitting diseases like flu and chickenpox.
- You also need a yellow fever vaccine for entry to Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo.
- You’re not allowed to track gorillas when sick, if you’re feeling unwell or suspect you have a contagious disease, inform the Rangers. You’ll be refunded or rescheduled for another trip once cleared.
- Foreign visitors may need a visa. Park authorities will verify your identity with your passport before trekking. Only eight people are allowed per gorilla group per day to minimize disturbance and disease risk.
- Only 8 people are allowed per gorilla group per day to minimize disease spread and disturbances.
- Gorilla trekking involves long hikes, steep terrain, and mud; being reasonably fit is important, elderly travellers may be assigned nearby gorilla families and can hire porters for assistance.
- Maintain a low tone and avoid loud noises. Don’t shout or make sudden movements that could disturb the gorillas.
- Keep the park clean, avoid littering, and dispose of waste properly. If you need to use the toilet, notify a guide for proper disposal.
- Keep at least 15 feet away from gorillas, avoid surrounding them, and don’t eat, drink, or smoke near them and lose your bag to prevent curious gorillas from investigating.
- If a gorilla approaches or charges, stay calm and avoid running. If a silverback displays dominance, follow ranger instructions.
- Only take photos when the rangers give permission, and do not use a flash to avoid disturbing the gorillas. Park essential for navigating the forest’s rugged terrain, long-Sleeved Clothing, sturdy Hiking Boots, waterproof Jacket, insect repellent, Camera (No Flash), Water and Snacks.
