Cheapest Place to See Gorillas

Embark on an Affordable Gorilla Expedition: Unveiling the Cheapest Place to See Gorillas

Are you an avid traveler planning a sojourn to Africa with a fervent desire to witness the majestic gorillas? Are you scouring the internet for the most economical destination to experience these awe-inspiring creatures up close? Your quest for the Cheapest Place to see Gorillas leads you to the captivating landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Beinga National Park in Congo, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Additionally, gorilla enthusiasts can explore other territories like Gabon and the Central African Republic.

Congo: The Budget-Friendly Gorilla Haven

When it comes to budget-friendly gorilla encounters, Congo emerges as the top choice. A gorilla permit in Congo is remarkably affordable, priced at USD 400 per person per trek during the high season (Mid-December to Mid-March and June to October) and a reduced rate of USD 200 during the low season (Mid-March to Mid-May and Mid-October to Mid-December annually).

In Congo, mountain gorilla trekking is exclusively conducted in Virunga National Park, renowned for being one of Africa’s most diverse tropical rainforests. Besides gorilla trekking, the park offers a plethora of activities, including Nyiragongo volcano hikes, bird watching, nature walks, chimpanzee tracking, and habituation experiences. It’s important to note that mountain gorillas are found in only three countries worldwide: Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda. Rwanda’s gorillas reside in Volcanoes National Park, Uganda’s in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, while Congo’s gorillas call Virunga National Park home. These parks are in close proximity, forming the Virunga massif.

Virunga National Park is home to 10 habituated gorilla families available for tracking and tourism. Despite instabilities in the region, recent estimates suggest a gorilla population of over 100, including approximately 7 newborns.

Congo Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs

Securing a gorilla trekking permit is a prerequisite for exploring Virunga National Park. Trek Africa Expeditions, a trusted tour operator, streamlines the permit booking process. For a hassle-free experience, the recommendation is to book several months in advance, preferably five months or more prior to your visit. Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park during the high season costs USD 400 per person per trek, while the low season offers a reduced rate of USD 200 during Mid-March to May and Mid-October to Mid-December.

As part of Trek Africa Expeditions’ commitment to transparency, all-inclusive gorilla tour packages are offered, ranging from budget to luxury options. For those embarking on a 2-day trip from Kigali for the DR Congo mountain gorilla safari, the cost is USD 1100 per person in a group of two, inclusive of gorilla permits. The packages cover transportation, accommodation, meals, and guide services.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Congo, being situated in the tropics, experiences a tropical climate year-round, as does Virunga National Park. Dry season months, including December, January, February, June, July, August, and September, are ideal for gorilla trekking. During these months, the trails are drier, facilitating easier walks, and the vegetation is less dense, enhancing gorilla sightings. Wetter months, such as March, April, May, October, and November, are less favored due to slippery trails and denser vegetation.

For those seeking the most economical gorilla trekking experience in Virunga National Park, special offers are available during the low season. The permit cost is reduced to USD 200 per person per trek from Mid-March to May and Mid-October to Mid-December annually.

Accommodation Options in Virunga National Park

Accommodations in Virunga National Park cater to various preferences, including budget, mid-range, and luxury. Budget options like Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp range from 90-100 dollars per night per person. Mid-range choices, such as Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp, fall within the 100-200 dollar range per night per person. Luxury accommodations, exemplified by Mikeno Lodge, span from 200-400 dollars per night per person, all on a full-board basis. Travelers can select the option that best aligns with their preferences.

Transportation Logistics to Virunga National Park

Reaching Virunga National Park in Congo involves flying to Kigali International Airport, connecting to Gisenyi town, crossing the Rwanda-Congo border to Goma town in DR Congo, and finally driving to the park headquarters of Virunga National Park. The approximate 2-hour drive from Gisenyi town is covered in 4×4 vehicles. Transportation costs include vehicle hire per day (USD 80-150), driver-guide allowance (USD 50 per day), and fuel for the round trip, with costs varying based on the number of individuals sharing the transport.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for the Cheapest Gorilla Tours in Congo

Trek Africa Expeditions, with its wealth of experience in organizing exceptional gorilla trekking safaris to Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda, stands out as a reputable and highly rated tour operator on TripAdvisor. The company seamlessly integrates gorilla trekking with eco-friendly adventures and wildlife safaris, contributing to biodiversity conservation, wildlife preservation, and community upliftment. From chimpanzee trekking to Big 5 safaris, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural encounters, Trek Africa Expeditions offers a diverse and memorable African safari experience. Whether opting for budget or luxury safaris, the tour packages are tailored to individual preferences, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable journey. For inquiries about the Cheapest Place to see Gorillas, feel free to contact Trek Africa Expeditions.