Yes, Congo is safe for gorilla trekking for travellers planning to track the mountain gorillas of Virunga National Park. Imagine getting up close with the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural sanctuary. For travellers planning a gorilla trekking in the Congo, it is generally safe for visitors on a gorilla trekking safari.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has several years suffered from political unrest, civil wars and diseases such as Ebola which have led to a decline in tourism thus discouraging travellers from visiting the country. However, the National government and local authorities have restored peace by training more soldiers for security, training park rangers, mending policies as well as enforcing law and order which has created a safe environment for travellers planning to visit Congo for gorilla trekking and other activities.

Where is gorilla trekking done in the Democratic Republic of Congo?

Gorilla trekking in Congo is done in Virunga National Park where mountain gorillas can be found and the other three National parks of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Parka and Volcanoes National Park. Virunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site covering an area of about 7800sqkm and home to over 198 mammal species, 67 amphibians, 700 bird species and other animals. Virunga National Park is known as a home for the endangered mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas which make it a special gorilla trekking destination.

Gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Gorilla trekking in Congo is done in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park for lowland gorilla trekking. The gorilla trekking experience takes you through the deep and lush forests of the park. On finding the gorillas, tourists are granted a maximum of 1 hour as they observe the gorillas in their natural habitat as they watch the gorillas feeding and playing with the rest of the family. The gorillas in the Republic of Congo are subdivided into Mountain Gorillas and Lowland gorillas. Gorilla trekking in Congo is typically Lowland gorilla trekking and mountain gorilla trekking that is done in two parks Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park.

Virunga National Park: The park is covered with diverse tropical rainforests that provide habitats for the endangered mountain gorillas and is renowned for mountain gorilla trekking. The park is also home to other primate species such as L’Hoest Monkeys, white and Black colobus Monkeys, Red colobus Monkeys and other primate species. Virunga National Park is one of the four regions where you can see mountain gorillas in the whole world including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Volcanoes National Park.

Kahuzi Biega National Park: Kahuzi Biega National Park was gazetted and recognised as a national park in 1970 and the first lowland gorilla trekking was done in 1973. Kahuzi Biega National Park has 12 habituated gorilla families including 2 habituated families for visitor’s experience. Just like mountain gorilla trekking, lowland gorilla trekking offers an incredible experience that visitors create beautiful unforgettable memories on their gorilla trekking safari.

How Much is Gorilla Trekking Congo?

Seeing the gorillas in their natural habitats requires a gorilla trekking permit that is issued by the wildlife Authorities in Congo. For lowland gorilla trekking, a gorilla trekking permit costs USD 400 for Foreign Non-Residents, USD 200 for East African citizens and USD 200 for citizens. For Mountain gorilla trekking, a gorilla trekking permit costs USD 400 for Foreign Non-Residents, USD 200 for East African citizens and USD 200 for citizens. Travellers are highly advised to book in advance their gorilla trekking permits to avoid inconveniences and pave for way for easy gorilla trekking.

When is the best time for Gorilla Trekking in Congo?

Gorilla trekking in Congo is an all-year-round activity that can be done at any time of the year. However, the best time to see mountain gorillas is during the dry season which runs from December to February and June to September. During this time, the trekking trails are drier making it easy to navigate through. However, mountain gorillas can be seen during the wet season which is characterised by heavy rains, slippery trekking trails, and tall vegetation where you can have a chance to spot a variety of bird species.

What to pack for Gorilla Trekking Congo

Seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitats requires careful preparation as well as having the necessary items to have a successful gorilla trekking experience. Below are some of the items to pack which include the following sturdy hiking shoes, a camera, a pair of Binoculars, insect repellent, power bank, Travel insurance, water bottle, light backpack, long-sleeved pants and shirts and other necessary travel requirements.

Where to stay in Congo for Gorilla trekking

Are you planning a gorilla trekking safari in Congo? Congo has a variety of accommodation options ranging from Budget Midrange to Luxury depending on the choice and preference on travellers. Some of the accommodations include Mikeno Lodge, Virunga Hotel, Tchegera Island Hotel, Mountains of the Moon Hotel and a variety of accommodation options in Goma town.

How to get to Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Due to the remoteness and landscape of Congo’s gorilla trekking destinations, travellers can mostly access the park by Road Transport. Embark on a 4 to 5-hour drive from Kigali to Goma City. The drive involves crossing a border from Rwanda to Congo at Rubavu (Gisenyi) into Goma City. By air, travellers fly from Kigali International Airport to Goma City which is a quicker option though it is cost-effective.

Travel Tips for a gorilla trekking safari in Congo

• Stay informed about current safety conditions
• Book a reputable tour operator
• Understand the Region’s security
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
• Vaccinations and Health precautions
• Book secure accommodations
• Respect Local customs and culture
• Emergency contact information
• Be prepared for gorilla trekking

In conclusion, Congo is regarded safe gorilla trekking however, it requires a careful and mindful process to ensure a safe gorilla trekking experience. The Democratic Republic of Congo offers incredible lowland and mountain gorilla trekking that travellers ought not to miss on an African safari.