A Guide To Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park, DR Congo

A Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park, DR. Congo

Tucked away in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Virunga National Park is a hidden gem for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and conservation enthusiasts. Best known for its population of endangered mountain gorillas and dramatic volcanic landscapes, Virunga offers one of the most authentic gorilla trekking experiences in Africa.

As Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Virunga spans a breathtaking range of habitats—from the glacier-capped Rwenzori Mountains and the lush forests around Mount Mikeno, to the savanna plains near Lake Edward and the bubbling lava flows of Nyiragongo Volcano. The park borders Rwanda and Uganda, forming part of the wider Virunga Conservation Area.

Despite challenges from conflict and poaching, Virunga remains one of the few places on Earth where you can track and observe mountain gorillas in their natural environment. If you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trek, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Why Trekking with Gorillas in Virunga is a Bucket List Experience

Virunga is one of only four national parks in the world where travelers can embark on mountain gorilla trekking tours. These rare encounters take you deep into the misty forests of the park, where you’ll track habituated gorilla families under the guidance of expert rangers and trackers.

Each trekking group includes up to 8 tourists, accompanied by two armed rangers and a professional guide. Once your group locates the gorillas, you’re allowed to spend a magical hour observing them from a safe distance of around 10 meters. Watching these gentle giants interact, feed, and care for their young in the wild is an emotional and unforgettable experience.

The treks themselves vary in duration and difficulty depending on the gorilla family’s location. Some groups may be found within 30 minutes, while others could require up to six hours of hiking through thick rainforest, muddy terrain, and steep inclines. Because of this, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

Gorilla Families in Virunga National Park

Virunga is home to eight fully habituated gorilla families available for trekking. These include:

• Humba

• Rugendo

• Kabirizi

• Lulengo

• Munyaga

• Mapuwa

• Nyakamwe

• Bageni

Each group is led by a dominant silverback and can include up to 30 members. During your morning briefing at park headquarters, you’ll be assigned a group based on your fitness level, allowing for a more tailored and enjoyable trekking experience.

Daily monitoring by park rangers ensures that the gorillas’ locations are well known, which increases your chances of a successful and safe encounter.

To learn more about these gorilla families, visit our guide to gorilla groups in Virunga.

How Gorilla Trekking in Virunga Compares to Rwanda and Uganda

Many travelers ask how gorilla trekking in Virunga compares to experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. While all three destinations offer incredible wildlife encounters, Virunga stands out for its raw, off-the-beaten-path appeal.

The terrain is more challenging, the park less commercialized, and the surrounding landscape more diverse—from lava lakes to glacial peaks. If you’re an adventurous traveler looking for a more intimate and less crowded gorilla trekking experience, Virunga is a top choice.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Virunga Cost?

One of the most appealing aspects of gorilla trekking in the DRC is the affordability. A gorilla trekking permit in Virunga National Park costs USD 450 per person, making it significantly cheaper than in Rwanda (USD 1,500) and Uganda (USD 800).

Permits are available through the Virunga Foundation, though booking directly can be complicated. To make the process easier, we recommend working with a trusted local tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions. We take care of all the logistics—from securing your permit to organizing transportation and accommodation.

To get started, reach out to us at [email protected].

How to Get to Virunga National Park</h3>

Getting to Virunga National Park is fairly straightforward, with several travel options depending on where you’re coming from.

The closest major town is Goma, just about an hour’s drive from the park entrance. Goma is accessible by flights from major East African cities. Several airlines—such as Uganda Airlines, RwandAir, and Ethiopian Airlines—operate regular flights to Goma from Kigali (Rwanda), Entebbe (Uganda), and Addis Ababa (Ethiopia).

If you prefer a road trip, you can drive from Entebbe, Uganda, to the park via Kisoro and cross into the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Bunagana border. This overland journey typically takes 10–12 hours, depending on road conditions and the time it takes to clear immigration at the border.

Another convenient option is to fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From there, you can reach Virunga by crossing the border at Gisenyi and continuing the drive for 4 to 6 hours to Goma and onwards to the park.

For more guidance on cross-border travel and logistics, it’s advisable to work with a trusted local tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Best Time to Visit Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park welcomes visitors all year long, but the best time to go gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, which typically run from June to September and again from December to February. During these months, rainfall is minimal, trails are more accessible, and visibility in the forest is much better.

Although the wet season—from March to May and October to November—is considered the low season, it’s still possible to visit. Some travelers opt to come during these months to take advantage of discounted gorilla trekking permits and fewer crowds. However, keep in mind that trails can be muddy and challenging due to the frequent rain.

Where to Stay Near Virunga National Park

Virunga offers a range of accommodation options, from rustic wilderness camps to comfortable forest lodges. Here are some of the top picks for travelers:

1. Kibumba Tented Camp – Located on the slopes of Mount Mikeno, this eco-camp provides spectacular views of the surrounding Mitumba Mountains and nearby volcanoes like Mount Karisimbi, Nyiragongo, and Nyamulagira.

2. Tchegera Tented Camp – Set on a volcanic island in the middle of Lake Kivu, this peaceful hideaway is perfect for nature lovers. On clear nights, you can enjoy glowing views of Nyiragongo’s lava under a starlit sky.

3. Mikeno Lodge – Tucked inside the lush Mahura Forest at Rumangabo, this lodge combines comfort with adventure. Wake up to birdsong and panoramic views of the Virunga Mountains.

Other options that cater to various budgets include:

• Bukima Tented Camp

• Lulimbi Tented Camp

• Nyiragongo Summit Shelters (for trekkers)

• Hotel Begonias

• Orchids Safari Club

• Coco Lodge

• Exodus Bukavu

Make sure to book early, especially if you’re visiting during the peak season.

What to Pack for a Gorilla Trekking Safari

Preparing for a gorilla trekking experience in Virunga National Park requires a thoughtful packing list. Since the park is located at higher altitudes (up to 5,000 meters), weather conditions can be cold and rainy—even during the dry season. Here are the essentials you should bring:

• Lightweight waterproof jacket – for unexpected rain showers

• Warm sweater or fleece – ideal for chilly mornings and evenings

• Hiking boots or trail shoes – must be waterproof and provide good grip

• Thick socks and a scarf – for extra warmth

• Trousers and gaiters – to protect from mud and brush

• Long-sleeved shirts – helpful for avoiding insect bites and brushing against foliage

• Waterproof backpack – to keep your gear dry

• Hat or cap – to shield from sun or rain

• Other useful items: insect repellent, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, and a camera for capturing your adventure

Stick to lightweight gear to reduce fatigue while hiking through the forest.

How to Plan a Gorilla Trekking Tour in Virunga

Planning a gorilla trekking safari in Virunga National Park requires local knowledge and attention to detail, especially considering the region’s sensitive political climate. For safety and ease, it’s strongly recommended to work with a reputable and licensed tour operator familiar with logistics in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Trek Africa Expeditions is a trusted name in organizing safaris to Virunga. Our experienced team can help with everything—from permit arrangements to accommodation, transportation, and guiding. We’ve also supported documentary filming and special conservation tours in the region.

To begin planning your gorilla trekking adventure to this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, get in touch with us at [email protected] or explore more at trekafricatours.com.