Cost of Congo Gorilla Trip to Virunga National Park in Congo

Cost of Congo Gorilla Trip to Virunga National Park in Congo

Cost of Congo Gorilla Trip to Virunga National Park in Congo — Embarking on a journey to discover the majestic mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park, Congo, entails various costs encompassing essential elements like the Congo gorilla permit, tourist visa, transportation, accommodation, meals, and a reasonable company service fee. Virunga National Park stands as one of Africa’s most diverse tropical rainforests and is celebrated as one of the oldest national parks on the continent. Renowned for mountain gorilla trekking in Congo, this park offers an array of activities such as Nyirangongo volcano hike, bird watching, nature walks, chimpanzee tracking, and habituation experiences.

It’s worth noting that among the few countries worldwide that are home to mountain gorillas are Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda. Each of these countries boasts its unique national park where these majestic creatures reside. In Rwanda, mountain gorillas inhabit Volcanoes National Park, while in Uganda, they dwell in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Congo’s mountain gorillas find their habitat in Virunga National Park. These parks are proximal to each other, forming what is referred to as the Virunga Massif.

Virunga National Park is home to ten habituated gorilla families available solely for tracking and tourism purposes. Although the precise number of gorillas remains uncertain due to the region’s instabilities, the last census estimated their population to be over 100, including about 7 newborns.

Cost of Congo Gorilla Trekking Permit in Virunga National Park

Gorilla trekking in Congo primarily occurs in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Beiga National Park. Similar to gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, a gorilla permit is mandatory for trekking mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park. Trek Africa Expeditions offers comprehensive gorilla permit booking information for Congo, ensuring efficient planning for your gorilla safari. With our Congo gorilla tours, you can avoid the hassle of permit booking as we handle availability checks, bookings, and purchases on your behalf. It’s advisable to obtain a gorilla permit several months in advance, with at least 5 months prior to your visit. Payment of the gorilla permit fee in advance is recommended to facilitate timely acquisition.

Gorilla trekking is a daily activity in Virunga National Park, with permit costs varying depending on the season. During the high season months of mid-December to mid-March and June to October, the permit costs USD400 per person per trek. In contrast, during the low season months of mid-March to mid-May and mid-October to mid-December, the permit fee is USD200 per person per trek. Trek Africa Expeditions offers all-inclusive gorilla tour packages with transparent pricing, ranging from budget to luxury options. Our packages, including the 2-day trip from Kigali, encompass gorilla permits, transportation, accommodation, meals, and guide services, catering to various preferences and budgets.

Ideal Time for Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Given Congo’s location in the tropics, Virunga National Park experiences a tropical climate year-round, characterized by uncertain rains. Optimal months for gorilla trekking in Virunga are during the dry season, occurring from December to February and June to September. During these months, trails are drier and vegetation is less dense, facilitating easier gorilla sightings. Conversely, the wetter months from March to May and October to November are less favorable for gorilla trekking due to slippery trails and dense vegetation, although special offers are available during this low season.

Accommodation and Transportation Costs

Accommodation options in Virunga National Park range from budget to luxury, catering to diverse preferences. Budget options like Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp offer rates ranging from 90-100 dollars per night per person, while mid-range options such as Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp range from 100-200 dollars per night per person. Luxury accommodations like Mikeno Lodge offer rates ranging from 200-400 dollars per night per person, all on a full board basis.

Transportation to Virunga National Park typically involves flying to Kigali International Airport, then proceeding to Goma town in DR Congo. From there, a 2-hour drive to the park headquarters is facilitated using 4×4 vehicles. Transportation costs include vehicle hire, driver guide allowance, and fuel, varying based on the duration and number of individuals on the safari.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Gorilla Safari?

Trek Africa Expeditions boasts extensive experience in organizing exceptional gorilla trekking safari experiences in Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda. Highly rated and reviewed on TripAdvisor, we combine gorilla trekking safaris with eco-friendly adventures that prioritize biodiversity conservation and community upliftment. Our packages include a range of activities such as chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural encounters, ensuring a memorable African safari experience. Contact us today to learn more about the cost of a Congo gorilla trip to Virunga National Park and embark on an unforgettable adventure with us.