Congo Gorilla Trekking Age Limit and Permit Guide

Congo Gorilla Trekking Age Limit and Permit Guide

Are you planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Congo and wondering about the age restrictions? The official age limit for gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is 15 years and older. This age rule is set by the government authorities managing the gorilla national parks to ensure both visitor safety and gorilla protection.

In Congo, you can experience two types of gorilla trekking: mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park and the rare lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park.

Discover Virunga National Park: Home to Congo’s Mountain Gorillas

Virunga National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and most biologically diverse tropical rainforests. It is renowned for its mountain gorilla trekking but also offers thrilling activities like hiking the Nyiragongo volcano, bird watching, chimpanzee tracking, and nature walks.

Mountain gorillas in Virunga belong to the Virunga Massif region, which stretches across three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. In Uganda, gorillas live in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, while Rwanda’s gorillas are found in Volcanoes National Park.

Kahuzi Biega National Park: Trekking the Largest Lowland Gorillas

Established in 1970, Kahuzi Biega National Park is the only place in the world where you can trek the Eastern Lowland gorillas, also known as Grauer’s gorillas—the largest of all gorilla subspecies.

Located just 30 km from Bukavu town and accessible by road and air, the park is home to 12 gorilla families. However, only two families, Chimanuka and Mugaruka, are habituated and open for visitors. Chimanuka is especially famous, hosting one of the largest gorilla groups in the world with over 36 individuals.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices in Congo

Gorilla trekking permits are mandatory for visiting gorillas in both Virunga and Kahuzi Biega National Parks. Trek Africa Expeditions will assist you in securing these permits and planning your trip seamlessly—no hassle, just unforgettable experiences.

Kahuzi Biega National Park Lowland Gorilla Permit Fees:

• Non-Residents: USD 400

• East African Residents: USD 200

• Congolese Nationals: USD 20

Virunga National Park Mountain Gorilla Permit Fees:

• High Season (Mid-Dec to Mid-Mar, June to Oct): USD 400

• Low Season (Mid-Mar to Mid-May, Mid-Oct to Mid-Dec): USD 200

Our gorilla trekking packages include all costs, from permits to accommodation and transportation. For example, a 2-day gorilla trekking trip starting from Kigali costs around USD 1100 per person in a group of two, covering permits, lodging, meals, and guiding.

When is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Congo?

Congo’s tropical climate means it experiences rain year-round, but the best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons: December to February and June to September. During these months, trails are less muddy, vegetation is thinner, and gorilla sightings are easier and more rewarding.

The wetter months (March to May and October to November) are less popular due to slippery trails and thick vegetation, but you can find discounted gorilla permits during this low season.

Family-Friendly Gorilla Trekking: Where to Stay in Congo

In Virunga National Park, accommodation ranges from budget to luxury:

• Budget: Bukima and Kibumba Tented Camps ($90–$100 per night)

• Mid-Range: Tchegera Island and Lulimbi Tented Camps ($100–$200 per night)

• Luxury: Mikeno Lodge ($200–$400 per night)

Near Kahuzi Biega National Park, you can choose from:

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

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

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

Let Trek Africa Expeditions know your preferences, and we will handle all bookings to ensure a comfortable stay for you and your family.

How to Get to Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Most travelers fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From Kigali, head to Gisenyi town near the Rwanda-Congo border, then cross into Goma town in the DRC. From Goma, it’s about a two-hour drive to the park headquarters of Virunga or Kahuzi Biega National Parks, where your gorilla trekking adventure begins.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Congo Gorilla Trekking?

Trek Africa Expeditions has years of experience creating exceptional gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. We are highly rated on TripAdvisor for offering authentic, eco-friendly adventures that support conservation and local communities.

Our tours combine gorilla trekking with wildlife safaris, chimpanzee tracking, mountain hiking, cultural encounters, and boat cruises across top African safari destinations, including Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Planning your Congo gorilla trek with us means peace of mind, expert support, and unforgettable memories. Contact us today to learn more about the Congo gorilla trekking age limit and start your dream safari journey.