Lesio Louna Gorilla Reserve in the Republic of Congo

Exploring the Lesio Louna Gorilla Reserve in the Republic of Congo

Nestled within the central Batéké Plateau region, approximately 150 km north of Brazzaville, lies the Lesio Louna Gorilla Reserve, also known as Réserve Naturelle des Gorilles de Lésio Louna. This sanctuary was established through a collaborative effort between the Republic of Congo and the UK registered charity, The Aspinall Foundation. Initially designated as a gorilla sanctuary in 1999, it was later redefined and officially established as the Réserve Naturelle des Gorilles de Lésio Louna in 2009. Today, the reserve is jointly managed by The Aspinall Foundation and the Ministry of Forest Economy.

Spanning an expansive area of approximately 173,000 hectares, the Lesio Louna Gorilla Reserve boasts a diverse range of habitats within the once-adjacent southern portion of the Léfini Faunal Reserve. These habitats include non-wooded or lightly wooded grasslands, dramatic escarpments, cliffs, gallery forests, and swamp forests. This rich tapestry of environments provides a conducive habitat for a plethora of wildlife, including the critically endangered western lowland gorillas, as well as species like hippos, red river hogs, forest buffaloes, duikers, and an array of birdlife.

Embark on a Safari Adventure to Lesio Louna

Trek Africa Expeditions offers safari trips to the Lesio Louna Gorilla Reserve, providing travelers with the opportunity to experience the wonders of this nature reserve. Due to the conservation efforts in the area and the limited number of visitors allowed, it is advisable to organize your trip well in advance. For further information and assistance, our Africa Travel specialists are available to help you plan your expedition.

Best Time to Visit Lesio Louna Gorilla Reserve

While the Lesio Louna Gorilla Reserve can be visited throughout the year, the period from June to October is particularly recommended due to the rainfall patterns in the Republic of Congo. The dry season months, including December, January, February, June, July, August, and September, offer favorable conditions for gorilla trekking, with drier trails and clearer vegetation facilitating easier sightings. On the other hand, the slightly wet months of March, April, May, October, and November may pose challenges due to slippery trails and dense vegetation.

Safety Considerations

Visiting the Lesio Louna Gorilla Reserve in the Republic of Congo is generally considered safe. Despite past challenges such as civil unrest and disease outbreaks, the country is now experiencing more stable conditions conducive to tourism. As a responsible tour operator, Trek Africa Expeditions continuously monitors the security situation and provides updated guidance to ensure the safety of our clients throughout their journey.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions

With extensive experience in organizing gorilla safari experiences in Uganda and Rwanda, Trek Africa Expeditions offers unparalleled expertise and service. Our commitment to sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts ensures that your safari experience not only showcases the natural beauty of Africa but also contributes to the preservation of biodiversity and the upliftment of local communities. From gorilla trekking to wildlife safaris and cultural encounters, we curate unforgettable experiences across popular African safari destinations. Contact us today to embark on an enriching journey to Lesio Louna and beyond.