Wondering where to go for gorilla trekking in Congo? The prime destinations for this lasting Africa safari adventure in Congo include; Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park. Located in the north Kivu and south Kivu provinces respectively to the east of Democratic Republic of Congo, the two are prime destinations for Congo gorilla safaris and tours.

An encounter with gorilla families in Virunga and Kahuzi Biega parks is exceptionally life changing. Gorillas are intelligent and very fascinating creatures to observe. The silverback’s powerful presence is awe-inspiring, yet his calmness clearly earns him the title, “gentle giant”.

Virunga National Park is a UNESCO heritage site and Africa’s oldest park. This park alone is home to 25% of the world’s estimated 900 Mountain Gorillas with some unique ape species that can be sighted here, including the eastern Lowland Grauers gorillas and the Chimpanzees.

This park is now the best possible option for adventurous travelers to visit the once again accessible southern sector of the Virunga conservation area for Gorilla trekking tours. Gorilla treks in Virunga Park begin from Bukima patrol post in Mikeno area and are led by park rangers. Treks usually require 1-2 hours of hiking depending on the movements and location of Mountain Gorillas and current state of the terrain.

Kahuzi Biega National Park is another famous habitat for Eastern Lowland Gorillas, arguably the largest gorilla species in the world, scientifically referred to as the Grauer’s gorillas. Eastern lowland gorillas are one of the sub-species of Gorillas commonly sighted in the jungles of central and eastern Africa. This park has habituated groups of Eastern lowland Gorillas and thus a key destination for lowland gorilla trekking safaris in Congo.

Going on a gorilla tour in Congo is an outstanding once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it is at the top of many travelers bucket list.

Only children of 15 years and older are allowed to go for gorilla trekking in Congo. After meeting the gorillas, visitors are given only up to one hour to interact with them. All gorilla treks in Congo begin in the morning at 8am and commence with a briefing by the park rangers at the starting point.