If you are passionate about Congo safaris/Congo tours, you can customize amazing Congo gorilla safaris & tours and go gorilla trekking in Congo in Virunga National Park, and Kahuzi Biega National Park. One can also undertake wildlife and community safari in Congo visits as well as a honeymoon Congo vacation holiday.
Among the East African safari destinations, trekking gorillas in Congo safari trips offer the most fascinating experience worth undertaking on your African safari tour!
Travelers planning to undertake a Congo gorilla safari have a chance to encounter the endangered Mountain gorillas and the Eastern lowland gorillas in their wonderful charming natural environment.
Most of the gorilla trekking Congo tours take place in Virunga National Park which is part of the great Virunga Conservation Area.
The above conservation area covers Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park as well as the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park of Uganda. Together with Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, these are the only sites to spot the endangered Mountain gorillas on Earth!
If interested in spotting the lowland gorillas on your Congo gorilla safari, you shouldn’t miss visiting the great Kahuzi Biega National Park!
Congo gorilla safaris in Virunga National Park offer the best memorable adventure with the endangered gorillas. It offers you the real feel of Africa! This is due to the unexploited environment of this mighty country.
For a great experience on top of your gorilla trekking Congo tour/ Congo gorilla safaris, you’re advised to undertake other charming adventures on your Congo safaris! This offers you a golden opportunity to explore this gem of Africa.
Among these Congo safaris adventures include a hike to Nyiragongo volcano to see the world’s largest boiling lava lake. Also, on your Congo safaris, you can enjoy bird watching as well as chimp trekking.
All gorilla tours in Congo are safe and you shouldn’t get worried about where to stay. On your Congo safaris, there’s a range of accommodations for you to choose from ranging from budget, standard as well as luxury.
All year round, Congo gorilla safari expeditions are possible! However, a dry season offers the best experience as the rains are minimal and the trails in tropical rainforests are always drier.
If interested in knowing much about Congo gorilla safari adventures, let's go deeper!
Sites For Gorilla Trekking Congo Safaris & Tours – Where to See Gorillas in Congo?
Can you see gorillas in Congo? Yes! There are two sites to spot gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo and among these include:
Virunga National Park
Formerly known as Albert National Park, it was renamed Virunga National Park in 1969 after the country gained its independence from Belgium. It’s one of the oldest national parks in Congo.
This oldest national park in the eastern Congo was established in 1925. It sits in the eastern DR Congo on the border of Uganda and Rwanda, Virunga NP lies between Lake Kivu and Edward.
This park of DRC is prominently known for Mountain gorilla tours. Furthermore, it’s also known for boasting 2 active volcanic mountains, Mount Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira.
This charming bio-diverse park is one of the 3 sites on Earth where you can spot Mountain gorillas.
Virunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Virunga Conservation Area, home to over 604 gorillas.
Apart from holding 1/3 of 1,063 Mountain gorillas on earth, Congo’s Virunga Park boasts over 196 mammal species. Among these include endangered species like Chimpanzees and the Golden Monkey.
Dent’s Mona Monkey, Central Africa Red Colobus, and numerous amazing animals like Okapis and the Giant forest Hog can be spotted during your Virunga National Park gorilla trekking experience. For bird lovers, expect to encounter various colorful birds!
GORILLA FAMILIES IN VIRUNGA NATIONAL PARK
There are 8 habituated gorilla families in Virunga National Park and among these include:
The Kabirizi Family- the most visited gorilla family.
Bageni Family
Mapuwa Family
Rugendo Family
Lulengo Family
Munyaga Family
Humba Family and,
Nyakamwe Family.
Please note that gorilla safaris in Congo’s Virunga National Park always start from the park headquarters.
2. Kahuzi Biega National Park
Among the African countries, Kahuzi Biega National Park is the best place for travelers interested in the lowland gorilla trekkingexperience. This thrilling park is situated near the western banks of Lake Kivu and the Rwanda border.
Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its exceptional biodiversity, Kahuzi Biega Park boasts over 250 lowland gorillas. And out of these, 3 gorilla groups are habituated, and open for gorilla tracking safaris in Congo.
Not only is Kahuzi Biega known for its Eastern lowland gorilla trekkingexperience, but the park also holds about 136 animal species counting 13 primates, Chimpanzees inclusive. Forest Genets, Bush Elephants, as well as Buffalos, are also present.
For bird lovers, expect to encounter several stunning birds during your gorilla tour in Congo’s Kahuzi Beiga National Park. It’s home to over 349 birds, counting over 42 endemics like the Albertine Owlet.
Other native birds in Kahuzi Biega National Park include the African Green Broadbill, Congo Peafowl Yellow-crested Helmet-shrike, and Rockefeller’s Sunbird.
Are There Gorillas in Congo? | Is the Gorilla From Congo Real?
Does Congo have gorillas? Yes, there are gorillas in Congo! Gorillas in DRC are found in Virunga National Park as well as Kahuzi Biega National Park.
Mountain gorillas are found in Virunga National Park while Eastern Gorillas live in Kahuzi Biega NP.
What Gorilla Species Are Found in Congo?
DR Congo boasts two gorilla species counting the Mountain gorillas in the Virunga National Park. And, the Grauer’s gorillas (Eastern lowland gorillas are found in Kahuzi Biega National Park.
Differences and Similarities Between Eastern Lowland Gorillas and Mountain Gorillas
Grauer’s gorillas can survive in captivity (zoos) while the Mountain gorilla can’t. They only thrive in the wild!
A mountain gorilla has more coarse hair than Eastern low-land gorillas. This fur helps to keep them warm since they live in higher altitudes (over 12,200-4,300m a.s.l).
The Grauer’s gorillas (180kg) are heavier than Mountain gorillas (150kg).
Both of these species are endangered species.
What Is the Largest Gorilla in the World?
The Grauer’s gorilla also known as the Eastern lowland gorilla is the largest gorilla out of the 4 gorilla sub-species, weighing about 100-210kg.
This mighty gorilla is distinguished from other gorillas by its hefty body, enormous hands as well as a short muzzle.
In E. Africa, Kahuzi Biega in DRC is the only place to spot these gorillas.
Congo Gorilla Population- How Many Gorillas Are Left in the Congo?
How many gorillas are in Congo? The Democratic Republic of Congo boasts over 604 Mountain gorillas in the Virunga Conservation Area. Among this total, Congo’s Virunga National Park holds 1/3 of this population.
Others are found in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga National Park of Uganda.
Also, about 250 lowland gorillas live in Congo’s Kahuzi Biega Park.
What Country Has the Most Gorillas? | Which Country Is Best for Gorilla Trekking?
Almost half of the Mountain gorilla population on earth (1,063) dwells in Uganda’s Mgahinga and Bwindi national parks. Uganda Bwindi alone is home to about 459 gorillas which is almost 50% of the endangered Mountain gorillas on Earth!
The other total is found in Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda.
Conclusively, Uganda is the best country for African gorilla tours!
How Much Is A Gorilla Permit in Congo? – (How Much Does It Cost to See Gorillas in Congo?)
How much is gorilla trekking in DRC? Among the East African destinations offering gorilla tours, the Congo gorilla tracking permit is the cheapest!
Uganda gorilla trekking cost is 700 USD while that of Rwanda is 1500 USD.
How much is the Virunga gorilla trek? Virunga National Park Congo gorilla permits are charged according to nationality:
Foreign Non-Residents: 400 USD
Foreign Residents: 200 USD
East African Citizens: 20 USD
Where and How to Book A Gorilla Trekking Permit in Congo?
Travelers have 2 options for booking their gorilla trekking permits in Congo. They can book gorilla tracking permits directly through the Virunga Foundation or using a dependable tour operator and this is the most commonly used.
Visitors should book their Congo gorilla trekking permits in time for example 3-6 months before. This is because gorilla permit(s) permits are limited.
How Many Gorilla Permits Are Available in Congo Per Day?
As of now, there are over 12 habituated gorilla families living in Virunga National Park- the main area for gorilla safaris in Congo. Therefore, there’re over 96 permits for tracking gorillas in Congo available per day.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to See Gorillas?Where Is the Cheapest Place to See Mountain Gorillas?
The cheapest place to see gorillas in East Africa is the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). A gorilla trekking permit in DR Congo costs 400 USD. In Uganda, it’s at 700 USD, and 1500 USD in Rwanda.
A gorilla tracking permit in the Democratic Republic of Congo is almost half the price of gorilla trekking in Uganda. Therefore, tracking gorillas in Congo is more affordable!
In summary, the gorilla trekking Congo price is ideal for a budget traveler!
Is Gorilla Trekking Worth It in Congo? | Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money in Congo?
Due to the fairly high fees for gorilla tours compared to other safari activities, some travelers wonder whether the gorilla expeditions in Congo are worth the money!
Unquestionably, gorilla tracking in Congo is worth the money, and here is how:
Gorillas cannot survive in captivity! Therefore, a big portion of the gorilla tracking fee is used in conserving their environment.
Also, a huge percentage of money is used in paying park rangers who do a great job of monitoring gorillas while in the jungle.
Furthermore, a portion of the money is given back to develop communities around these gorilla parks. For example, schools, health centers, and roads have been constructed.
An encounter with the rare gentle giants in their charming misty natural environment is worth the money. It ranks as one of the most exciting adventures on the African continent.
How Hard is the Gorilla Trek in Congo? | How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking in Congo?
Gorilla tours in Congo are fairly challenging, though, this might depend on one’s physical level of fitness.
This amazing and memorable adventure involves hiking through somewhat challenging terrain, hills and valleys, thick undergrowth, as well as muddy places.
Please note that the above shouldn’t discourage you from taking a gorilla tour in Congo.
During the trek (gorilla tracking), there are always porters to assist you in case you get tired. You’ll be carried in a modern bamboo stretcher at a relatively small fee!
For an exciting gorilla safari in Congo, you’re advised to do physical exercise at least 6 months before your gorilla tracking adventure. This helps to raise your fitness level.
Is Congo Gorilla Trekking Safe? | Is It Safe to See Gorillas in Congo?
Is gorilla trekking safe in Congo?This is a common query to most travelers intending to undertake Congo gorilla safaris!
Is it safe to travel to Congo? Normally, this fear arises due to Congo’s being one of the countries in Africa greatly experiencing insecurity. It holds several rebel groups that reside in the thick tropical rainforests of this vast country.
Regardless of the above factor, gorilla trips in Congo are safe due to the following reasons:
While undertaking gorilla treks in Congo, you’ll always be escorted by fully trained armed guides. These rangers ensure your safety while in the jungle or as you enjoy gorilla tracking adventure.
Every day, armed rangers patrol the park. This is aimed at driving out poachers and rebels that might hide within.
All Congo gorilla trekking tours are carried out on fully habituated gorilla families which are familiar to people. And thus, don’t get worried about being attacked by these gentle giants!
Please note that:
You are advised to inquire first from your tour operator about your safety while on your gorilla safari in Congo! After, you can proceed with your Congo safari arrangements.
Which Country Is Safest for Gorilla Trekking? |What Country Is the Safest to See Gorillas?
As of current, gorilla tours in Uganda and Rwanda are considered the safest!
In Congo, there’re fights between several rebel groups however, the Congo government and the UN are doing their best to bring back peace.
You should always inquire from your Congo tour operator about the best country to visit.
How Long Does Gorilla Trekking Take in Congo
Usually, gorilla safaris in Congo’s Virunga Park take about 2-8 hours. Often, this depends on the movement of gorillas in the rainforest.
On a lucky day, some gorilla treks in Congo can take less than one hour. Note that, there are some gorilla families which rarely move to higher altitudes, and these can easily be visited.
Congo Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations to Follow on Your Congo Gorilla Tour
During your gorilla safaris in Congo, there are rules set specifically to protect the endangered gorillas as well as travelers taking a gorilla trek.
Below are the rules for gorilla expeditions in Congo:
Gorilla Trekking Guidelines Before Departing Into the Jungle
The gorilla trekking age limit in Congo is 15 years. Usually, children are prone to transmissible childhood diseases like cough which are deadly to gorillas.
If you feel like to ease yourself, you should go off the track. After, must cover your waste 30cm deep.
Only 8 people are allowed to visit a gorilla group per day. This helps to reduce stress on gorillas.
Travelers having flu, colds, or any other infectious diseaseare not allowed to visit gorillas.
Guidelines to Follow While With Gorillas:
You should maintain maximum silence while on the trail! But, this shouldn’t stop you from asking the ranger.
Littering in the park is not allowed. Travelers should leave the park with all they came in with.
Visitors must maintain a 7-10m distance from gorillas. Gorillas remain with wild animal instincts however much they’re habituated.
Also, it’s not allowed to touch gorillas, they’re wild animals and can misinterpret your touch.
You should keep in the group on encountering gorillas: This minimizes gorilla stress!
Eating, drinking, and smoking around gorillas are strictly not allowed.
If you sneeze around gorillas, you must turn away or cover your face. These endangered gentle giants can easily get contagious illnesses.
Visitors must always follow the ranger’s instructions while in the jungle.
On encountering a gorilla family, all gorilla visits are limited to one hour.
Travelers must use flashless cameras while taking photos. Flashlights can make these gentle giants of the forest charge.
How Much Does A Gorilla Safari Cost in Congo? | How Much Is a Gorilla Tour in Congo?
Please note that there’s no fixed cost for the Congo gorilla trekking safari as it’s determined by several factors!
Below are the factors determining the cost of a gorilla tour in Congo:
Accommodation class, you wish to use on your Congo safaris
Number of days you’ll spend on your trip
The kind of safari vehicle you opt for Congo safaris tours
Number of people you travel with on your Congo safaris
The activities you undertake on top of your gorilla holiday
Best Time to Visit Congo Gorillas | What Are the Best Months for Safari in Congo?
Which month is best for gorilla trekking tours in Congo? All year round, travelers can undertake gorilla safaris in Congo.
But, the best time to see Congo gorillas is during the dry months of June-August and December-February. During these months, trails are drier and there are minimal chances of rainfall in the rainforests of Congo to inconvenience.
On the other hand, taking a gorilla safari in Congo during the wet season is worth undertaking! At this time, there’s abundant food in the forest and therefore, gorillas hardly move in higher altitudes in search of food. And thus, trekking them usually takes a shorter time.
You should just get ready to dump rainforest!
Memorable Congo Safari Attractions – Things to Do in Congo on Top of Your Congo Gorilla Safaris
For a memorable gorilla safari vacation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, endeavor to supplement the following incredible adventures on your gorilla trip:
DRC Volcano Tour- Undertaking Mount Nyiragongo Hike
Please note that Mount Nyiragongo is one of the major attractions in Virunga National Park. It’s one of the most active volcanoes (volcanic mountains) worth visiting, especially if you’re an adventure lover in Congo! Hiking this incredible volcano is one of the hardest dares in tourism.
This amazing volcano of the Democratic Republic of Congo is famously known due to its violent eruptions. For example, from 1882-2021, it has erupted over 34 times!
Every year, thousands of visitors undertake the Nyiragongo hike to have scenic views of the world’s largest lava lake!
An incredible hike to this active volcano of DRC takes 2 days. This captivating hike costs 300 USD per person and it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure worth undertaking!
You can also decide to hike Nyamuragira active volcano. It’s also one of the most active volcanoes in the world. It’s possible to top up this adventure on your gorilla safari in Congo.
Chimpanzee Trekking Tours in Congo
On your visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, you can also undertake a chimpanzee trekking experience.
This thrilling adventure offers you a golden opportunity to visit the amazing man’s closest genetic relatives (chimps) in their natural habitat.
Chimpanzee trekking tours in the Democratic Republic of Congo are specifically done in Virunga National Park!
On the trek, expect to spot amazing unique wildlife species in this great bio-diverse park counting colorful birds. The Golden Monkey and forest Elephants are common on lucky days.
During the trek, visitors can also spot unique wildlife species in the park such as Okapis. Other nature walks can be organized to fully explore the bio-diversity of this park!
Bird Watching in Congo
If you’re a bird lover, endeavor to include a bird-watching tour on your safari in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Due to the rich habitats in Congo and numerous forests, the country boasts over 1,188 birds- one of the highest bird checklists in Africa. These include West African bird species, Albertine endemics, wetlands, rivers, lakes as well as savannah birds.
The prominent birds in Congo to look for include:
Congo Serpent-Eagle
Red-billed dwarf Hornbill
White-bellied Kingfisher
Bronze-naped Pigeon
White-thighed Hornbills
Piping Hornbills and,
Black-casqued Hornbills
Normally, birding is done in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park. It’s done by undertaking nature walks in the forest with an expert local birding guide as well as a ranger who protects you.
Packing List for Congo Safari- What to Pack for A safari in Congo
As you plan to have a safari in Congo, you should be fully equipped for a wonderful adventure experience.
Here is the Congo safari packing list:
A camera: On your Congo gorilla safaris, this helps you to take many photos for remembrance of your tour.
Rain poncho (rain jacket with a hood): Helps in case rainfall gets during nature walks in the jungle. It’s a must-have on your Congo gorilla safaris tours.
Strong comfortable hiking boots: These are ideal while in the jungle, for instance on a gorilla trek on your Congo safari.
Long-sleeved shirts and trousers: While on a gorilla trek/ gorilla safari in the jungle, these protect your body from any possible cuts and insect bites.
Insect repellents: On your Congo gorilla safaris, this is a must-have due to the many tropical rainforests in the country prone to biting insects.
Garden gloves: Along the gorilla trek, these help to keep you warm while on nature walks in higher altitudes. Also, they protect your hands from injuries as you hike.
A backpack: This helps to keep your day pack safe such as a camera, packed lunch, and insect repellents.
Sunglasses, sunscreens, and a sunhat: On a gorilla safari in Congo, these protect you from strong sunlight especially, during the dry months.
Drinking water: This helps to keep you hydrated while on nature walks or a gorilla trek.
Packed lunch: Energy-giving snacks are recommended.
Congo Safari Outfit- What to Wear on a Congo Safari?
During your gorilla holiday in Africa Congo, it’s ideal you put on eco-friendly clothes as these blend well in nature and don’t irritate gorillas.
For instance:
Khaki
Brown
Grey as well as,
Green is recommended.
Also Note that:
Bright colors such as red attract a lot of the attention of gorillas. So, these should be avoided.
Clothes with animal prints like Leopards irritate gorillas and can make them charge. Therefore, these should be avoided!
Black is not recommended as it absorbs much heat during the dry seasons.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots are so vital while on nature walks as you’ll come across muddy and hilly points on the trail.
Furthermore, it’s ideal to put on long socks. These help you tuck in your pants during the hike and this protects you from safari ants that might be along the gorilla trekking trail.
Top Tourist Attractions in Congo – What to See in Congo on a Safari?
The Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the countries blessed with amazing attractions worth exploring on your African safari!
Below are the major attractions in Congo:
Beautiful Primates of Congo
In Africa, Congo holds the highest diversity of primates totaling over 49 species. Among these, the most prominent include Mountain gorillas as well their cousins.
On your holiday safari in Congo, other fascinating primates to look for include Bonobos, Common Chimpanzees, Baboons, Blue Monkeys, Golden Monkeys, Mantled guereza, Angola Colobus, etc.
The Unique Game Animals of Congo
DRC boasts thousands of game animals counting all the Big Five. This paradise of Africa is also home to the classic safari ungulates that most travelers on safaris in Africa are interested in!
Here are the game animals in Congo to look for on your vacation:
Lions
Leopards
Elephants
Okapis- Congolese Giraffe (Forest Giraffe)
Hippos
Crocodiles and,
Numerous Antelope species.
Most of the above animals can be spotted in Garamba National Park.
Amazing Birds in Congo
With almost the highest checklist of birds in Africa ( 1,188 species), Congo is blessed with a rich birdlife! These include Albertine rift endemics, lakes, rivers, woodlands, savannahs, as well as wetland birds.
Some of the most sought-after birds of DRC include White-thighed Hornbills, Congo Serpent-Eagle, African Fish Eagle, African Paradise Flycatcher, Woodland Kingfisher, etc.
Charming Volcanoes of Congo
There’re various amazing mountains in Congo, but the most prominent are Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira active volcanoes. These are one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
The Beautiful Waterfalls in Congo
There are several gorgeous falls worth visiting on your holiday in DRC.
Among the commonly visited waterfalls include Boyoma Falls, Zongo Falls, as well as Livingstone waterfalls, etc.
Amazing Rivers in Congo
Congo is one of the countries on the African continent holding many rivers. Among the prominent include the River Congo and the Lukaya River. River Congo is the deepest River in the world, measuring about 219.5m deep.
Undertaking Congo River tours is the best way to explore the scenic drainage patterns of these rivers!
Dazzling Lakes in Congo
There are numerous beautiful lakes in the Democratic Republic of Congo you shouldn’t miss visiting during your holiday. Lake Kivu is commonly visited in Congo. You’ll explore its dazzling islands as well as its boiling methane gas.
Amazing Places in Congo to Visit | Best Destinations in Congo to Visit on Congo Safaris?
There are numerous places worth visiting on your safari holiday in Congo.
Here are some of the must not miss places to visit in the Democratic Republic of Congo:
Virunga National Park
Known as the gorilla sanctuary of Congo, Virunga National Park ranks top among the most visited places in Congo. It’s found in eastern Congo, bordering Uganda and Rwanda.
This great park in eastern Congo is one of the most biodiverse parks in Africa, popularly known for Mountain gorilla expeditions in Congo.
ATTRACTIONS IN VIRUNGA NP
Although there’re various attractions in Virunga National Park, the prominent ones include:
Mountain Gorillas
Amazing active volcanoes: Mount Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira.
Colorful birds totaling over 706 bird species.
The endangered Batwa (Pygmy) people, around the park borders.
Other primates include Chimpanzees, De Brazza’s Monkeys, Blue monkeys, Red-tailed and Dent’s Mona Monkeys, etc.
ACTIVITIES IN VIRUNGA NATIONAL PARK
On your Congo safari in Virunga National Park, there’s a range of amazing activities you can do.
And among the prominent include:
Gorilla trekking experience
Undertake Nyiragongo hiking adventure
Chimpanzee trekking as well as,
Bird watching.
Kahuzi Beiga National Park
If interested in spotting the Eastern lowland gorillas, Congo’s Kahuzi Beiga NP is the only place for you in E. Africa!
During your lowland gorilla tours in Congo, expect to spot beautiful birds as well as amazing primates.
Odzala National Park
Odzala National Park is an ideal site to spot the Western lowland gorilla. Among other amazing wildlife species that can be spotted in Odzala National Park are Black-crested Mangabeys, Central African Red Colobus, Crested Mona Monkeys, and De Brazza’s Monkeys are common here.
Salonga National Park
Salonga National Park is found within the River Congo basin. It’s famously known for its great flora and fauna counting Bonobos (dwarf Chimpanzees) as well as a viable population of forest Elephants.
Garamba National Park
This is one of the great national parks in Africa, however, less visited. It’s home to the White Rhino, Elephants, Hippos, and Giraffes, as well as several birds.
Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary
On your holiday vacation in Congo, Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary is an amazing place to visit especially if you’re within Kinshasa city. On your visit, you’ll get a golden opportunity to see Bonobos– man’s close cousins after chimps!
This is the only sanctuary for dwarf Chimpanzees in the world.
Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage
This is a lovely gorilla sanctuary, situated near Virunga National Park headquarters, just near Mikeno Lodge.
Senkwekwe Centre is the only sanctuary for Mountain gorillas in the world. As of now, it’s home to over 7 individuals, mostly those restored from poachers.
Which Is the Best Safari Park in Congo?
Although there’re numerous parks in Congo, Virunga NP is prominently visited. Gorillas are the key tourist attraction here!
This enormous park is found in the eastern Congo and it holds 2 active volcanoes namely, Nyiragongo and Nyamurangira volcanoes.
What Wildlife Is in the Republic of the Congo?
Due to various habitats in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the country holds various amazing wildlife species counting:
Primates in DR Congo
The prominent primates in DR Congo include Mountain gorillas, Chimpanzees, and the Golden Monkey in Virunga NP. The Bonobos in Congo can only be spotted within forests in the south of River Congo.
Note that in E. Africa:
Mountain gorillas can only be spotted in Volcanoes national park Rwanda, Congo’s Virunga, and Mgahinga Park of Uganda. The Volcanoes National Park holds the highest population.
The Golden Monkeys can only be spotted in Uganda’s Mgahinga Park, Rwanda’s Nyungwe forest national park, and Volcanoes National Park.
Other Wildlife in Congo
These include:
Elephants
Leopards- rare
Lions- rare
White Rhinos
Giraffes
Okapis
Numerous Antelopes
Spotted Hyenas and,
Several beautiful bird species.
What is Congo Famous For?
What is Congo most famous for? The Democratic DR Congo is famously known for gorilla tours! Gorilla trips in Congo take place in Virunga National Park.
On Earth, other gorillas can be found in Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga parks as well as in the Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda.
However, visitors interested in lowland gorilla trekking can visit the Kahuzi Biega National Park.
Is Congo Good for Tourists | Why Do Tourists Visit the Congo?
What is special about the Congo? There’re numerous fascinating reasons why tourists choose to travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo on top of other East African safari destinations.
Here are the top reasons why you should visit Congo:
Congo is one of the few places on earth to spot Mountain gorillas. The other few countries include Uganda in Bwindi and Mgahinga as well as Rwanda in Volcanoes National Park.
In E. Africa, Congo is the only country to spot the Eastern lowland gorillas.
For bird lovers, Congo is one of the birding havens in E. Africa. This country boasts a bird checklist- one of the highest in Africa.
Furthermore, Congo holds unique wildlife, for example, Okapis, gorillas, and pygmy chimps which are rare in Africa.
Congo offers the most thrilling adventure tours in Africa. For instance, hiking Nyiragongo active volcano
The country boasts several amazing natural wonders. And among these includes River Congo, 2nd longest River in Africa, and Nyiragongo Volcano, holding the largest lava lake in the world.
What Is the Safari Called in Africa?
A safari in Africa is an adventure holiday (trip) to encounter game animals in their natural habitats.
Normally, safaris are made in game reserves and national parks such as Serengeti in Tanzania, Queen Elizabeth NP in Uganda, and Masai Mara in Kenya.
Usually, visitors on African safaris are interested in spotting Lions, Leopards, Buffaloes, Elephants, and Rhinos. Also, Cheetahs, Hippos, Crocs, Giraffes, Zebras, Antelopes, and Hyenas are looked for!
Is There a Safari in Congo? | Does Congo Have Safaris?
There are several fascinating Congo safari tours worth undertaking while on your vacation in Africa. Among the top amazing holiday tours in Congo include
Gorillas tours
Volcano hiking adventures
Chimpanzee trekking tours and,
Bird-watching tours, etc.
Congo Safaris Hotels | Safari Lodges in Congo to Use During Your Vacation Holidays
During your gorilla Congo safaris, you shouldn’t be worried about where to stay! There are different classes of accommodation in Congo ranging from Budget, Midrange as well as Budget.
Below are the:
Best Budget Lodges on Your Congo Safari Tours
Kibumba Tented Camp and Lodge
Exodus Bukavu
Hotel Begonias Bukavu
Hotel Elizabeth
Popular Midrange Lodges to Use while Trekking Gorillas in Congo
Coco Lodge Bukavu
Hotel Begonais Bukavu
Panorama Hotel
Lake Side Hotel Bukavu
Recommended Luxury Lodges to Use on Your Holiday
Mikeno Lodge
Bukima Lodge
L’Orchis Safari Club
Lac Kivu Lodge
How Much Does It Cost to Go on A Safari in Congo? | How Much Does It Cost to Go to the Gorilla Trekking Congo Safari?
There’s no fixed cost for a safari in Congo as this is influenced by numerous factors!
Here are some of the factors influencing the cost of a trip to Congo:
Accommodation Class You Opt to Use on Your Vacation
The class of accommodation you decide to use on your vacation in Congo greatly affects your price. For example, deciding to use luxury instead of budget facilities leads to a rise in your safari cost.
Number of Days You Will Spend on a Congo Gorilla Trip
Regularly, long safaris are relatively more expensive than short trips. For example, a 5 days gorilla holiday in Congo is more expensive than a 3 day.
A Safari Vehicle You Opt to Use on Your Gorilla Trips in Congo
Likewise, the type of vehicle you decide to use on your safari also affects the cost of your trip. For instance, opting to use an extended land cruiser instead of a safari van fairly raises your safari price.
This is so because these two have different fuel consumption rates.
The Number of People You’re Traveling With on A Gorilla Trip
In General, the safari price increases with the increase in the number of people undertaking it. This is because each person holds expenses, for example, a gorilla trekking permit.
On the other hand, traveling as a group minimizes your safari cost as it allows sharing of some expenses like accommodation costs.
Activities You Wish to Undertake on Your Congo Gorilla Holiday
Usually, most travelers undertaking gorilla tours in Congo wish to accompany it with incredible safari adventures. And among these include the Nyiragongo volcano hike.
Note that the more safari activities on your Congo gorilla holiday, the higher your safari rises.
Best Congo Tour Operators to Travel With on Your Safari
Below are some of the best Congo tour operators you should book your gorilla tour/ Congo safari with Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd, Africa Safaris & Tours plusWild Gorilla Safaris.
Best Congo Vacation Holiday – Congo Gorilla Safari Packages.
Are you looking for Congo tour packages/Congo gorilla safaris, here are the best mountain gorilla tours in Congo:
7 Days Congo Tour
3 Days Nyiragongo Hike Adventure
5 Days Gorilla Tour in Congo & Nyiragongo Hiking
10 Days Primate Safari in Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda. A long gorilla adventure in Congo.
12 Days Uganda Rwanda Trip and Congo– Wildlife safari, gorilla, and Chimp trekking adventure.
17 Days Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo Trip – Game viewing, chimp, and gorilla tours as well as a hiking adventure.
In summary, among the East African safari destinations, Congo gorilla safaris offer the best thrilling experience worth undertaking! It gives you a golden opportunity of encountering both the mighty Mountain gorillas and their smaller cousins, the Eastern lowland gorillas.
Gorilla trekking safari tours in Congo take place in the great Virunga Park. However, for travelers on Congo safaris interested in spotting the Eastern lowland gorillas, Kahuzi Biega National Park waits for you!
For a memorable adventure experience on your Congo safari, you should top up the Nyiragongo volcano hike on your trip.
All gorilla tours in Congo are safe and visitors also have a range of accommodation classes to choose from!
Book with us a gorilla trekking safari in Congo for a rewarding experience! Also, always feel free to email our responsive team for any inquiries about Congo safaris
Can you see gorillas in Congo? Yes! There are two sites to spot gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo and among these include:
Among the African countries, Kahuzi Biega National Park is the best place for travelers interested in the lowland gorilla trekking experience. This thrilling park is situated near the western banks of Lake Kivu and the Rwanda border.
Is gorilla trekking safe in Congo? This is a common query to most travelers intending to undertake Congo gorilla safaris!
Please note that Mount Nyiragongo is one of the major attractions in Virunga National Park. It’s one of the most active volcanoes (volcanic mountains) worth visiting, especially if you’re an adventure lover in Congo! Hiking this incredible volcano is one of the hardest dares in tourism.
On your visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, you can also undertake a chimpanzee trekking experience.
If you’re a bird lover, endeavor to include a bird-watching tour on your safari in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
DRC boasts thousands of game animals counting all the Big Five. This paradise of Africa is also home to the classic safari ungulates that most travelers on safaris in Africa are interested in!
During your gorilla Congo safaris, you shouldn’t be worried about where to stay! There are different classes of accommodation in Congo ranging from Budget, Midrange as well as Budget.
