Gorillas in Virunga National Park

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) is the only country where visitors can track both mountain and lowland gorillas in their natural habitats. It is renowned for offering the best opportunities to see wild eastern lowland gorillas, which can also be observed in zoos worldwide. However, mountain gorillas, which thrive only in the wild, are exclusively found in DR Congo’s Virunga National Park. Lowland gorillas are tracked in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

Mountain gorillas are typically larger and have darker, thicker coats adapted for colder high-altitude environments. Both subspecies primarily feed on leaves, tree shoots, and fruits and live in groups led by a dominant male silverback. These silverbacks ensure the group’s safety and maintain order. Mountain gorilla groups can number over 30 individuals, while the males of both subspecies generally remain with their group longer, while females often leave to join new groups or silverbacks upon reaching maturity.

Gorilla trekking is a major draw in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo due to the rarity and close genetic relation of mountain gorillas to humans. The trekking experience in Virunga National Park starts early, requiring trekkers to prepare with appropriate gear, including long-sleeved shirts, rain jackets, hiking shoes, gloves, cameras, water, passports, and gorilla permits. After a briefing at the park headquarters on gorilla groups, habitats, and trekking rules, visitors are assigned to one of the gorilla families based on factors like language, fitness level, and preferences.

Tracking groups are limited to eight people, accompanied by park guides and armed rangers. The chances of spotting the gorillas are high, as rangers monitor their movements, though challenges such as weather, terrain, and distance may affect the trek’s duration. Upon finding the gorilla group, visitors can observe them for one hour. This time is spent watching the dominant silverback, group interactions, grooming, play, and other behaviors. The experience offers remarkable insights into gorilla life and behavior, reflecting human similarities. For those interested, our 2-day gorilla tour in Congo could be a fascinating option.

Useful Tips when planning for Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Planning for gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park requires careful preparation to ensure a rewarding experience. Here are some essential tips to consider:

1. Prepare Physically and Mentally: Gorilla trekking can be demanding. To navigate the challenging terrain, it’s crucial to be in good physical condition. If you’re unsure about your fitness, start training by walking long distances and hiking in similar conditions before your trip.

2. Dress Appropriately: Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and thick synthetic stockings to stay warm, especially at high altitudes. Gardening gloves can help protect your hands, and layered clothing can keep you comfortable in varying temperatures.

3. Best Time to Visit: While gorilla trekking is possible year-round, the dry season is ideal. Avoid the rainy months from October to November and March to April, as muddy and slippery paths can make trekking difficult.

4. Choose a Reliable Tour Operator: Opt for a well-organized tour operator who will handle bookings and provide detailed tour information. A good tour company will ensure all arrangements are made, allowing you to focus solely on the trek.

5. Pack Wisely: Bring a high-quality camera, sufficient water, snacks, a waterproof backpack, and insect repellents. If you have heavy luggage, consider hiring a porter to assist.

6. Book Gorilla Permits in Advance: Secure your permits 3 to 6 months ahead of your planned trek to guarantee availability.

7. Health Precautions: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Congo. Carry vaccination evidence, as there are no shortcuts for this requirement. Although not mandatory, consider bringing medications for malaria, meningitis, typhoid, and hepatitis.

8. Obtain a Visa: Apply for a Congo visa in advance; it costs $100. Ensure you have this documentation before entering the country.

9. Travel Insurance: Arrange for travel insurance if possible, as it’s challenging to find insurance companies that cover safaris in foreign countries.

10. Book Nearby Accommodation: Stay close to the trek’s starting point for convenience. Recommended areas for lodging include Goma and Bukima.

Getting to Virunga National Park

Once you’ve secured your gorilla permit, accommodation, and visa, you may wonder how to reach the expansive DR Congo and specifically Virunga National Park. Here’s how you can get there from neighboring countries:

Rwanda Route:

1. Arrival: Most flights land at Kigali International Airport in the late afternoon or evening. You’ll likely need to stay overnight in Kigali since border offices aren’t open 24/7.
2. Travel to the Border: Depart early the next morning for the journey to the Congo border. The drive from Kigali to Gisenyi takes about 4 hours. A private car hire costs approximately $100, while public transportation is more economical. From Gisenyi, you can take a local taxi for less than a dollar to the Rwanda-Congo border.
3. Border Crossing: Ensure you have your yellow fever vaccination certificate, passport, and Congo visa. Border officials will stamp your passport on the Rwandan side, and then you’ll proceed to the Congo side for another stamp. After crossing, you can head to Goma town and then on to Virunga National Park.
4. Tour Operator Services: If you book with a tour company like Mission Africa Safaris, they will handle all logistics, including airport pickup, hotel transfers, and transport to the border and park.

Uganda Route:

1. Arrival: From Entebbe Airport, it’s less than an hour drive to Kampala via the new express highway. The journey from Kampala to Kisoro, the nearest town to the Congo border, takes around 8 hours. Public transport is available but can be exhausting and costs between $15 and $20, with prices rising during peak seasons like Easter and Christmas. Major bus operators include Bismarkan, Post Bus, Jaguar, and Horizon, with Post Bus being more comfortable.
2. Private Travel: For a quicker and more comfortable journey, hire a private vehicle or use a tour operator such as Mission Africa Safaris. Kisoro can also be accessed by air via Kajjansi airstrip along the Kampala-Entebbe highway. From Bunagana, it’s a 30-minute drive to Virunga National Park.

Water Transport: For adventurous travelers, a boat cruise on Lake Kivu to Goma offers a unique approach. The cruise costs between $300 and $400 and takes about 5 hours, with speed boats reducing the time to 3 hours. Due to high demand and security concerns, it’s advisable to book early and use public boats instead of private ones.

Note: Border crossings from Rwanda or Uganda typically take less than 10 minutes with the proper documentation. Ensure you have your visa and yellow fever vaccination card before booking your flight.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Gorilla Permits: A gorilla trekking permit in Virunga National Park, Congo, costs $400, which is relatively lower than in Rwanda ($400) or Uganda ($600). During the low seasons, you might even find discounts on these permits. Gorilla permits can be booked either through your tour operator or directly at the Virunga National Park headquarters. However, the permit cost is only a part of the total expenses for a gorilla trekking adventure. You should also factor in the costs of transportation, accommodation, and visas.

Tour Packages: Gorilla tours with Mission Africa Safaris are categorized into three levels: Luxury, Mid-Range, and Budget. The overall cost of a 3-day gorilla tour varies based on the chosen category. For budget tours, the estimated cost is around $1500, while luxury tours can reach up to $2000. For those planning a budget tour independently, there are affordable accommodation options in Goma that still provide good services without the need for high-end lodgings.

Accommodation Options in Virunga National Park

When planning a gorilla safari in Virunga National Park, you can choose from various accommodation options tailored to different budgets and preferences. The options are generally categorized into Budget, Mid-Range, and Luxury accommodations.

Budget Accommodation

Budget accommodations in Virunga National Park offer modest services and amenities. These typically include basic bedding and dining facilities but may lack additional features like bars, televisions, or warm showers. Despite the basic setup, many budget accommodations provide quality service and comfort that can exceed expectations. Prices for budget accommodations start at around $200 per night, offering a cost-effective yet pleasant stay for visitors.

Mid-Range Accommodation

Mid-Range accommodations, often rated as 2 or 3-star facilities, offer a step up from budget options. These accommodations are priced between $100 and $290 per night and include better amenities. They typically feature self-contained rooms with improved bedding, televisions, dining services, and bars. Mid-Range lodges provide a balance between comfort and affordability, catering to those who seek more than just the basics.

Luxury Accommodation

Luxury accommodations in Virunga National Park are generally 5-star lodges or hotels known for their high-quality services and prime locations. Prices for these top-tier facilities range from $250 to $500 per night. These lodges are strategically situated to offer stunning views of the park and often come with high-end rooms, fine dining options, and well-stocked bars. They are ideal for those looking to enjoy a more lavish experience while exploring the park.

Popular Lodges in Virunga National Park

Kibumba Tented Camp and Lodge: Kibumba Lodge, a newly opened facility, is located at the foot of Mount Nyiragongo. It offers both tented camps and decorated permanent rooms catering to budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers. Budget rooms here are priced at $200 per night and come with self-contained bathrooms, 24-hour hot water showers, linen bedding, dining, and lounge services.

Mikeno Lodge: Mikeno Lodge is a luxurious option situated near Goma town. It features twelve thatched rooms built with mahogany and decorated with lava stones. Its proximity to Virunga National Park allows guests to experience wildlife such as chimpanzees, Colobus monkeys, and various bird species from the comfort of their rooms. The lodge offers spacious en-suite bathrooms with stone showers and curved baths, a dining hall, a bar, and a lounging area with a fireplace.

Lac Kivu Lodge: Located in Goma on the shores of Lake Kivu, Lac Kivu Lodge boasts African-style decor and 20 rooms with views of the manicured gardens and the lake. The lodge offers en-suite bathrooms with Nespresso coffee machines and Italian showers. Additional amenities include a large swimming pool, conference rooms, Wi-Fi, a fitness/beauty center, and continuous power supply.

Choosing the right accommodation and understanding the costs involved will enhance your gorilla trekking experience in Virunga National Park. Whether you opt for budget, mid-range, or luxury options, there is a variety of choices to suit different preferences and budgets.

Combining Congo Safari with Uganda

A combined Congo and Uganda safari offers a unique and diverse adventure, allowing travelers to explore two of Africa’s most biodiverse countries. This journey blends the lush rainforests, savannahs, and mountains of Uganda with the rugged, untouched wilderness of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), providing an unforgettable experience filled with wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

The adventure typically starts in Uganda, where travelers can embark on gorilla trekking in the famous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This park is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Beyond gorilla trekking, Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park provides spectacular game drives, boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel, and sightings of elephants, lions, and hippos.

The safari continues across the border into Congo’s Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Africa’s oldest national park. Virunga is home to diverse wildlife, including mountain gorillas and rare species like the okapi. Travelers can embark on another gorilla trekking adventure here, offering a different experience in the dense forests of Congo. Virunga’s towering volcanoes and landscapes make it a visual treat for any adventurer.

For the more daring, climbing the active Nyiragongo Volcano is a highlight. Hikers reach the summit to witness the world’s largest lava lake, a truly awe-inspiring sight. After Congo, travelers can return to Uganda to relax on the tranquil shores of Lake Bunyonyi or visit Murchison Falls for a complete wildlife experience.

A combined Congo and Uganda safari is perfect for travelers seeking to experience Africa’s rich biodiversity, from mountain gorillas and game drives to active volcanoes and cultural experiences, all in one incredible journey.

Comparing Congo, Uganda and Rwanda Safaris

Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda safaris each offer unique experiences, focusing on wildlife, landscapes, and cultural richness. Here’s a comparison of what makes each destination special:

1. Gorilla Trekking:

• Congo: Virunga National Park is home to fewer tourists, providing a more remote and adventurous experience. Gorilla trekking here is often coupled with hiking the Nyiragongo Volcano, where visitors can witness the world’s largest lava lake. Congo offers an untamed, raw wilderness, perfect for those seeking a less-commercialized safari.

• Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is world-renowned for gorilla trekking, housing almost half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Uganda offers a more established and accessible trekking experience, often combining gorilla treks with other wildlife adventures like Queen Elizabeth National Park’s game drives. Uganda’s gorilla trekking permits are generally more affordable than Rwanda’s.

• Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park offers a premium gorilla trekking experience with its well-developed infrastructure and easy access. Rwanda is often seen as the luxury option, offering high-end lodges and exclusive experiences. The country has invested heavily in conservation, making it a top destination for eco-tourism.

2. Wildlife & Safari Diversity:

• Congo: Wildlife beyond gorillas includes rare species like the okapi and various primates. The remoteness of Virunga makes it feel like an untamed wilderness, though the infrastructure is less developed compared to Uganda and Rwanda. Nyiragongo Volcano is a unique highlight here.

• Uganda: Known for its biodiversity, Uganda offers more varied safaris, combining gorilla trekking with savannah game drives, boat safaris, and chimpanzee tracking in places like Kibale Forest. Parks like Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth feature classic African safari experiences with elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos.

• Rwanda: In addition to gorilla trekking, Akagera National Park provides a classic safari experience with the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Nyungwe Forest is also a prime destination for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks, showcasing Rwanda’s growing appeal for wildlife enthusiasts.

3. Landscape and Scenery:

• Congo: Virunga’s dramatic volcanic landscape, dense rainforests, and rugged terrain provide an unparalleled sense of adventure. The remote, wild nature of Congo’s parks creates a distinctive backdrop for safaris.

• Uganda: From the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains to the vast savannahs of Murchison Falls, Uganda offers diverse landscapes. Its rolling hills, lakes, and waterfalls, including the powerful Murchison Falls, make for a scenic and varied safari experience.

• Rwanda: Often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda’s mountainous landscape is breathtaking, with terraced hillsides, volcanic peaks, and lush rainforests. Its compact size makes it easy to explore both wildlife and cultural attractions in a short time.

4. Cost and Accessibility:

• Congo: Safaris in Congo are more affordable but also more challenging due to less-developed infrastructure. It attracts adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

• Uganda: Offering a balance of affordability and accessibility, Uganda is popular among travelers looking for diverse experiences at moderate costs. Gorilla permits are less expensive than in Rwanda, and the country offers a wide range of accommodation options.

• Rwanda: Known for its high-end safari experiences, Rwanda is the most expensive of the three, especially for gorilla trekking. However, it offers exceptional services, luxury lodges, and easy access to its national parks from the capital, Kigali.

Conclusion:

• Congo is for the adventurous traveler looking for a raw, off-the-beaten-path experience, with thrilling activities like trekking and volcano hikes.
• Uganda offers a diverse safari experience, combining gorilla trekking with traditional wildlife safaris and stunning landscapes, making it ideal for a more varied adventure.
• Rwanda provides a luxurious and eco-conscious safari with excellent infrastructure, high-end accommodation, and the most accessible gorilla trekking.