Best Time of Year to See Gorillas in Congo

Best Time of Year to See Gorillas in Congo

Wondering when to go gorilla trekking in Congo? The best time to see gorillas in Virunga National Park or Kahuzi-Biega National Park is during the dry seasons, which occur from December to February and June to September. During these months, the forest trails are drier and easier to navigate, and the vegetation is less dense—making it easier to spot and photograph gorillas.

Congo’s tropical location means that rain is possible year-round, but the dry season provides the most comfortable trekking conditions. During the wet months—March to May and October to mid-December—the trails become slippery and muddy, and thick vegetation can make gorilla sightings more difficult. For this reason, many travelers avoid trekking during the rainy season.

However, if you’re comfortable with a bit of rain, the wet season also offers discounted gorilla permits, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.

Discounted Gorilla Permits in Congo’s Low Season

If you’re looking to save on your gorilla trekking experience, consider visiting Congo during the low season. Virunga National Park offers a special permit price of just USD 200 per person during the rainy months—from 15th March to 15th May and 15th October to 15th December.

This is a significant discount from the standard price and can make a big difference for those planning a longer safari or traveling on a budget. Despite the wetter conditions, sightings are still possible, and you’ll enjoy fewer crowds on the trails.

Top Things to Do in Congo for Nature and Wildlife Lovers

Congo is one of Africa’s most adventurous and biodiverse destinations. From trekking endangered gorillas to hiking active volcanoes, here are the top experiences you shouldn’t miss:

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Home to one-third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Virunga National Park offers a rare chance to trek these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.

Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park

For a different gorilla experience, head to Kahuzi-Biega National Park, where you can track Eastern Lowland gorillas—the largest gorilla subspecies in the world.

Hiking Mount Nyiragongo

One of the most iconic volcanoes in Africa, Mount Nyiragongo is known for its dramatic summit and world’s largest lava lake. The hike is challenging but incredibly rewarding.

Visit Goma City

Explore the bustling border town of Goma, the gateway to Virunga. Here, you’ll find local markets, lakeside cafes, and a rich cultural atmosphere shaped by its unique geography and history.

Relax by Lake Kivu

After your adventures, unwind at Lake Kivu, a scenic freshwater lake on the Rwanda-Congo border. It’s perfect for kayaking, boat trips, and sunset views.

About Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest national park and one of the most ecologically diverse places on the continent. It’s located in eastern Congo and is best known for mountain gorilla trekking, but it also offers chimpanzee tracking, birdwatching, nature walks, and volcano hikes.

The park is part of the Virunga Massif, a transboundary conservation area shared by Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. In this region, mountain gorillas are found in three parks:

• Virunga National Park in DR Congo

• Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

• Bwindi Impenetrable & Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks in Uganda

Each park offers a unique trekking experience, and Virunga is particularly appealing for adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path wildlife encounters.

About Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Founded in 1970, Kahuzi-Biega National Park is the premier destination for trekking Eastern Lowland gorillas, also known as Grauer’s gorillas. Located about 30 kilometers from Bukavu, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a rare opportunity to observe the largest of all gorilla subspecies in the wild.

Kahuzi-Biega is home to 12 gorilla families, with two habituated groups open to visitors—Chimanuka and Mugaruka, both named after dominant silverbacks. The Chimanuka family, in particular, is one of the largest gorilla groups in the world, with over 36 individuals.

Gorilla trekking here is less crowded than in other destinations, making it an excellent option for travelers seeking a more intimate and authentic experience with nature.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost in Congo?

Gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo is an affordable and adventurous alternative to Uganda and Rwanda. Trekking experiences are available in two key destinations: Virunga National Park for mountain gorillas and Kahuzi-Biega National Park for Eastern Lowland gorillas.

Just like in neighboring countries, you’ll need a gorilla permit to participate. The cost varies depending on the park, the season, and your residency status.

Gorilla Permit Prices in Virunga National Park (Mountain Gorillas)

Virunga National Park offers a tiered permit pricing system based on the season:

• High Season (Mid-December to Mid-March, and June to October):
  USD 400 per person per trek

• Low Season (Mid-March to Mid-May, and Mid-October to Mid-December):
  USD 200 per person per trek

These permits are required for each person, per trek. During the low season, discounts make this one of the most budget-friendly ways to see mountain gorillas in Africa.

Gorilla Permit Prices in Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Eastern Lowland Gorillas)

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is the only place in the world where you can trek the Eastern Lowland gorilla, also known as Grauer’s gorilla—the largest of all gorilla subspecies.

Permit costs are:

• International Visitors: USD 400 per person

• East African Residents: USD 200 per person

• Congolese Citizens: USD 20 per person

Only two habituated gorilla families—Chimanuka and Mugaruka—are available for trekking, so permits are limited. We recommend booking at least 5 months in advance to secure your spot.

What’s Included in Gorilla Tour Packages?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we offer all-inclusive gorilla trekking packages—from budget to luxury—so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Our tour prices include:

• Gorilla trekking permits

• Ground transportation

• Accommodation and meals

• Guide and park entry fees

• Border crossing assistance (if starting from Rwanda)

For example, a 2-day mountain gorilla tour from Kigali to Virunga starts at USD 1100 per person (for two people traveling together), including all essential services and permits.

Where to Stay in Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Accommodation in Virunga National Park

Virunga offers a range of lodging options, from basic tents to upscale eco-lodges:

• Budget: Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
  (Approx. $90–$100 per night, per person)

• Mid-Range: Tchegera Island Camp, Lulimbi Tented Camp
  (Approx. $100–$200 per night, per person)

• Luxury: Mikeno Lodge
  (Approx. $200–$400 per night, per person)

Let us know your budget and preference, and we’ll check availability and handle bookings for you.

Accommodation in Kahuzi-Biega National Park

In the Bukavu area near Kahuzi-Biega, you’ll find everything from affordable hotels to boutique lodges:

• Budget: Hotel Begonias Bukavu, Exodus Bukavu, Lake Side Hotel Bukavu
  (Approx. $90–$100 per night, per person)

• Mid-Range: Coco Lodge Bukavu
  (Approx. $100–$200 per night, per person)

• Luxury: L’Orchids Safari Club
  (Approx. $200–$400 per night, per person)

We help secure and reserve accommodation based on your travel plans and comfort level.

How to Get to Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Accessing Congo for gorilla trekking is easier than many travelers expect. Most tours start in Kigali, Rwanda, which offers more international flight options. From Kigali:

1. Drive to Gisenyi town, on the Rwanda-DRC border (approx. 3 hours).

2. Cross into Goma, the gateway city for both Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega.

3. Continue by road to the park headquarters—about 2 hours from Gisenyi.

This route is not only efficient but also scenic, offering beautiful views of Lake Kivu and the rolling hills of Rwanda.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trek in Congo with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize affordable and eco-conscious gorilla trekking tours across East and Central Africa. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Expert planning: We handle everything—permits, logistics, border crossings, and more.

• Trusted service: Highly rated on TripAdvisor with a reputation for reliability.

• Sustainable travel: Our safaris contribute to conservation and community development.

• Custom itineraries: Combine gorilla trekking with game drives, chimp tracking, mountain hikes, and cultural experiences in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, and beyond.

We’re here to help you plan the best time to visit Congo for gorilla trekking and create a memorable safari tailored to your interests and budget.