Gorilla Trekking Trip to DR Congo from Kigali

Gorilla Trekking Trip to DR Congo from Kigali

Are you looking to trek mountain gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo and you’re based in Kigali, Rwanda? Our Congo Gorilla Trip from Kigali is the perfect opportunity to visit Virunga National Park and experience unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking in one of Africa’s oldest and most diverse rainforests. Virunga is renowned for its mountain gorillas, alongside other activities such as Nyiragongo Volcano hikes, bird watching, nature walks, chimpanzee tracking, and habituation experiences.

The Virunga Massif—a region shared by three countries—includes Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo. Each country is home to its own population of mountain gorillas: Rwanda’s gorillas are in Volcanoes National Park, Uganda’s are in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Congo’s gorillas reside in Virunga National Park. These parks are all located close to each other, making it easy to explore more than one destination during your trip.

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we offer a range of budget and luxury DR Congo gorilla safaris from Kigali. For those seeking a luxury experience, our Luxury Congo Gorilla Trip provides a top-tier journey with private Land Cruiser vehicles, stays in high-end lodges, and personalized service.

Popular Congo Gorilla Trip options from Kigali include:

• 3 Days Gorilla Trekking in Congo

• 4 Days Nyiragongo Volcano Hike & Gorilla Trekking

• 6 Days Gorillas & Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

• 7 Days Gorillas & Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

How to Organize and Book Your Congo Gorilla Trip from Kigali

When planning your DR Congo gorilla safari from Kigali, look no further than Trek Africa Expeditions. Our expert team, based in Uganda, handles all aspects of your trip, from securing Virunga National Park gorilla permits to arranging your accommodation, transport, and all logistics.

We offer a seamless experience with 4×4 vans or jeeps, driven by experienced, knowledgeable guides who are familiar with the routes between Kigali and Virunga National Park. Our team ensures your safety and comfort, guiding you on your gorilla trekking adventure in Congo and back to Kigali International Airport for your return flight.

How Much Does a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Congo Cost?

Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park is a daily activity that begins with a 7:45 am briefing, followed by a trek into the forest. During the trek, you’ll be assigned a specific gorilla family to track and spend one hour observing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Like other parks, you’ll also have the chance to encounter various wildlife such as birds and other primates, and learn about the gorillas’ behavior and their survival in the forest.

Trek Africa Expeditions offers all-inclusive packages for gorilla trekking with no hidden costs. Our safaris cater to all types of travelers, from budget-conscious adventurers to those seeking a more luxurious experience. A 2-day trip from Kigali, including gorilla permits, transport, accommodation, meals, and guide services, costs approximately USD 1100 per person (based on a group of two).

Gorilla Permit Costs for Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Congo

When planning your mountain gorilla trek in Virunga National Park, securing your gorilla permit is essential. Compared to Uganda and Rwanda, Congo offers more affordable trekking permits.

During the high season (December, January, February, June, July, August, September, and early October), the gorilla permit for Virunga National Park costs USD 400 per person. This period is a peak travel time due to the dry season, which makes trekking easier and more accessible. Advanced booking is strongly recommended, ideally 3 months in advance, to secure your permits during this busy season.

For those planning to visit during the low season (early March, April, May, early October, November, and early December), discounted permits are available at USD 200 per person. This discount is available between March 15 and May 15 and October 15 to December 15. If you’re considering trekking during these months, we recommend booking your permits well in advance to ensure availability.

Once you confirm your trip and make payment for the permits, we will secure your permits from Virunga National Park’s headquarters and send you a scanned copy of the receipt. After the permit confirmation, you can finalize your international flight booking, and the balance for your services can be paid closer to your travel date.

What to Do and See on a Mountain Gorilla Safari in DR Congo from Kigali

If you’re planning a DR Congo mountain gorilla safari from Kigali, there are several incredible activities and experiences not to miss, especially in Virunga National Park. Known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, Virunga offers much more than just gorilla trekking. Here’s what you can expect to see and do:

1. Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Mountain gorilla trekking is the highlight of any trip to Virunga National Park. Virunga is home to a few mountain gorilla groups, with only six groups open for trekking. These include Kabirizi, Humba, Rugendo, Mapuwa, Lulengo, Munyaga, Nyakamwe, and Bageni. Among them, the Kabirizi group is the most popular due to its size, boasting over 30 gorillas. If you’re eager to trek this group, it’s crucial to book your gorilla permits at least three months in advance, as this group tends to fill up quickly.

2. Chimpanzee Tracking and Habituation

After mountain gorillas, chimpanzee tracking and Chimpanzee Habituation are the next most popular activities in Virunga National Park. On a chimpanzee tracking safari, you’ll have a one-hour encounter with chimpanzees in their natural habitat. If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, chimpanzee habituation offers a full day with the chimpanzees. You’ll join researchers and trackers to observe their natural behaviors, feeding habits, and social interactions. For those who wish to partake in either of these activities, it’s important to book permits well in advance—at least three months prior—to secure your spot.

3. Nature Walks through Virunga’s Forest

Virunga National Park is one of Africa’s oldest tropical rainforests, home to dense vegetation and a variety of wildlife. Taking a nature walk through the forest is a great way to explore the park’s incredible biodiversity. You’ll have the chance to see unique plant species, spot exotic birds, and—if you’re lucky—encounter mammals or reptiles in the wild. The breathtaking Virunga landscape is a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.

4. Hiking the Nyiragongo Volcano

For adventure seekers, hiking Nyiragongo Volcano is an unforgettable experience. As one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Nyiragongo stands at 3,470 meters (11,380 feet) and has erupted at least 34 times since 1882, with the most recent eruption occurring in 2002. The hike to the summit is challenging but rewarding, offering spectacular views of the lava lake at the crater’s top—an experience that only a few have the privilege to witness.

5. Bird Watching in Virunga

With over 706 bird species recorded in Virunga National Park, bird watching is a must-do activity for any nature enthusiast. The park’s diverse habitats—including forest, swamps, and grasslands—provide ideal conditions for a wide variety of birdlife. Whether you’re an avid birder or just enjoy spotting wildlife, a birding safari in Virunga is an opportunity to see some of the rarest and most fascinating birds in Africa.

When is the Best Time to Visit Congo for Mountain Gorilla Trekking?

The best time for mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park, DR Congo, largely depends on the weather, as the park is located in the tropics and is covered with lush tropical rainforest vegetation. Due to the tropical climate, rain is frequent, but there are still favorable months to visit.

The dry season, which occurs from December to February and June to September, is the ideal time to visit. During these months, the trails are drier, making the trek easier and more comfortable. Additionally, the vegetation is not as thick, which improves visibility and makes it easier to spot the gorillas.

However, if you are traveling on a budget, the rainy season (from March to May and October to November) may offer discounted gorilla permits for only $200. While the trails can be slippery and the vegetation more dense, this is an opportunity to trek gorillas with fewer tourists. We recommend booking your trip in advance if you are planning to visit during the rainy months to secure your spot.

Where to Stay During Your Congo Gorilla Trekking Trip from Kigali

Accommodation options around Virunga National Park cater to all budgets, from budget-friendly to luxurious choices. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Budget options: Tented camps like Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp, with rates between $90 and $100 per night per person.

• Mid-range options: Camps such as Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp, with prices ranging from $100 to $200 per night per person.

• Luxury options: Mikeno Lodge is a top choice for those seeking a more indulgent stay, with rates between $200 and $400 per night per person.

Let us know your preferences, and we’ll book the best accommodation for you based on availability and your budget.

How to Access Congo for Mountain Gorilla Trekking from Kigali

To reach Virunga National Park in DR Congo from Kigali, Rwanda, your journey will begin with a flight to Kigali International Airport. From there, you’ll travel to Gisenyi by road, which takes about two hours. After crossing the Rwanda-Congo border, you’ll reach Goma, a town in DR Congo. From Goma, it’s another short drive to the Bukima area, where you’ll begin your trek at the Virunga National Park headquarters.

This route makes it easy to access the park from Kigali in just a few hours, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience.

When to Book Your Congo Gorilla Trekking Trip from Kigali

When booking your Congo mountain gorilla safari from Kigali, the timing of your booking depends on your budget. Gorilla permits in Virunga National Park are limited, especially during the high season, and they tend to sell out quickly. To avoid missing out, we recommend booking your gorilla trek at least 3 months in advance.

By booking early, you’ll secure your permits and have the best chance of getting your preferred trekking dates. Contact Trek Africa Expeditions as soon as possible, and we will ensure your permits are reserved and your trip is seamlessly planned.

Why Book Your Congo Gorilla Trip from Kigali with Trek Africa Expeditions?

When you book your Congo mountain gorilla safari with Trek Africa Expeditions, you’re choosing a trusted and reliable local operator. We have a professional team that handles all aspects of your trip, from gorilla permits to transportation and accommodation. We are members of AUTO (Association of Uganda Tour Operators), ensuring that we meet the highest industry standards.

Our company is highly rated on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, with positive reviews from past travelers. Trek Africa Expeditions is Ugandan-owned and managed, so when you book with us, you are working with a team of experts who genuinely know and love East Africa. We’ll provide you with the most up-to-date information and help you plan the perfect trip to Virunga National Park for an unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience.