A Guide to Visiting Bonobos in the Congo

A Guide to Visiting Bonobos in the Congo: An Unforgettable 8-Day Expedition into the Wild

If you’re looking for a rare and meaningful wildlife experience, few adventures compare to visiting bonobos in the wild. These gentle primates—our closest living relatives, sharing over 99% of our DNA—are found only in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This 8-day journey takes you deep into the heart of the Congo Basin, combining thrilling bonobo tracking with immersive cultural experiences and a unique expedition up the mighty Congo River.

Why Visit Bonobos in Congo?

Bonobos are one of the world’s least-understood great apes, known for their intelligence, empathy, and peaceful nature. Seeing them in the wild is an extraordinary opportunity that very few people have experienced. They live only in the Congo’s rainforests, making this destination the only place on Earth where you can track bonobos in their natural habitat.

Beyond the bonobos, this trip offers rich cultural interactions, river exploration, and a glimpse into one of Africa’s most remote and biodiverse regions.

8-Day Bonobo Trekking Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kinshasa

You’ll be met at the airport in Kinshasa by our Trek Africa Expeditions team and transferred to your hotel for a welcome briefing. Enjoy your first evening at leisure in the capital city.
Overnight: Léon Hotel or similar

Day 2: Kinshasa City Tour

Spend the day exploring the vibrant capital of the DRC. Highlights include the National Museum, the Academy of Fine Arts, and the Mausoleum of Laurent-Désiré Kabila. You’ll also discover Kinshasa’s colorful street culture through a visit to a local market and meet the flamboyant “Sapeurs,” famous for their sharp fashion and elegant lifestyle.
Lunch: Chez Flore Restaurant
Overnight: Hotel in Kinshasa

Day 3: Kinshasa to Menko (Congo River Expedition Begins)

The adventure truly begins as you board a boat from Maluku, about 80 km from Kinshasa, and begin your journey up the legendary Congo River. Spend the night in the village of Menko and immerse yourself in river life. Participate in local fishing and enjoy the stunning views from the water.
Overnight: Menko (camping)

Day 4: Menko to Tshumbiri, then Drive to Nkala

Continue by boat to Tshumbiri, arriving around mid-afternoon. From there, take a 4×4 transfer to Nkala village, the base for your bonobo trek.
Overnight: Tent camping in Nkala

Day 5: Bonobo Trekking in the Rainforest

Rise early for your once-in-a-lifetime bonobo trekking experience. Hike through dense rainforest accompanied by expert trackers, and spend time observing bonobos in their natural environment. After lunch, enjoy a village tour and cultural interaction with the local Téké community, including a traditional dance performance.
Overnight: Camp or Mbomou Tour Guesthouse

Day 6: Nature Walk and Cultural Encounters

Take a guided walk through the forest and meet more members of the Téké community. Learn about their customs, history, and way of life. In the afternoon, return to Tshumbiri by vehicle.
Overnight: Tshumbiri (guesthouse or camping)

Day 7: Return to Kinshasa

Depart early by boat back to Maluku. Enjoy the peaceful morning river scenes and reflect on your journey. Once in Maluku, you’ll be transferred back to Kinshasa for your final night in the city.
Overnight: Hotel in Kinshasa

Day 8: Departure

Transfer to N’djili International Airport for your departure flight.

Trip Pricing

• 1 Person: $5,999 USD

• 2 People: $4,999 USD per person

• 3+ People: $3,999 USD per person

What’s Included:

• Private transportation (vehicle and motorbike)

• Accommodation (hotel, guesthouse, and tented stays)

• English-speaking guide and chef

• All meals as listed in the itinerary

• Visa Invitation Letter (VIL)

• Bonobo trekking permits and community entry fees

Not Included:

• International airfare

• Travel and medical insurance

• Airport taxes ($55 per person)

• Gratuities and souvenirs

Book Your Bonobo Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we craft tailor-made trips to explore the hidden gems of the Congo, including authentic bonobo trekking experiences. Our team is highly responsive and will work with you to plan and book every aspect of your trip. Whether you’re coming from Kinshasa or Kigali, we’ve got you covered.

We provide experienced, multilingual guides, handle all logistics, and ensure your safety and comfort throughout the expedition.

Ready to plan your journey to the Congo?
Contact us today to start planning your bonobo trekking adventure.