How Long Does It Take to Get a DR Congo Visa?

How Long Does It Take to Get a DR Congo Visa?

If you’re planning a trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo), you might be wondering, “How long does it take to get a DR Congo Visa?” The process is relatively straightforward, especially if you choose to book your trip through Trek Africa Expeditions, which will assist you in obtaining your visa without requiring an application letter.

Typically, it takes around 2 to 3 weeks for a DR Congo visa application to be processed. For the best experience, it’s recommended to apply for your visa 1-2 months before your travel date, especially if you plan to visit locations like Bukavu, Kinshasa, or Goma. Each region may have slight differences in the processing times, so it’s important to plan ahead.

If you’re traveling to Bukavu to see the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park, access is available via the Ruzizi 1 Land Border from Kigali, Rwanda. This border is currently the safest route into the DR Congo and is located near Cyangugu, a city on the southern shore of Lake Kivu in Rwanda, just across from Bukavu. Crossing the Ruzizi River by way of two bridges and a dam offers a memorable and scenic entry into Congo.

You’ll need to fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, and from there, you can drive towards Rusizi District before reaching the border. This crossing leads you into DR Congo and sets the stage for an exceptional gorilla trekking experience in Kahuzi Biega National Park. In this expedition, you’ll have the rare chance to trek the Eastern Lowland Gorilla, a subspecies endemic to the DR Congo.

Which Part of DR Congo is Safe for Travelers?

For now, the only safe and accessible area for gorilla trekking in DR Congo is Kahuzi Biega National Park. While Virunga National Park—home to the Mountain Gorillas and the Nyiragongo Volcano—remains closed due to ongoing conflicts in the region, Kahuzi Biega continues to offer an incredible and safe experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

At present, areas around Goma and other parts of Virunga are affected by conflicts, particularly with the M23 rebels. However, Kahuzi Biega National Park, located in the eastern part of the country, remains open and safe for tourists. If you’re looking to experience a unique gorilla trekking adventure, this is the ideal destination.

You can book your tour directly through Trek Africa Expeditions, a local tour operator in DR Congo with extensive experience organizing safe and unforgettable trips to the Eastern Lowland Gorillas.

Sample Itinerary for a DR Congo Gorilla Trekking Tour

If you’re ready to explore the wonders of DR Congo and trek the incredible Eastern Lowland Gorillas, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your adventure:

Day 1: Arrival in Bukavu from Kigali

After breakfast at your hotel in Kigali, you’ll be picked up and drive towards Bukavu in the eastern part of DR Congo. You’ll cross the Cyangugu-Rusizi Border and proceed into Congo, where you’ll check into your hotel in Bukavu. The evening is free for you to unwind and prepare for the exciting adventure ahead.

Accommodation: Nediva Hotel, Bukavu
Website: Nediva Hotel

Day 2: Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park

Today, embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you trek the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park. These gorillas are larger than their mountain counterparts, and their families tend to be much bigger. Trekking typically takes between 1 to 4 hours. Once you meet these majestic creatures, you’ll understand why this is one of the most rewarding safari experiences in Africa.

After the trek, return to your hotel for the evening.

Accommodation: Nediva Hotel, Bukavu

Day 3: Return to Rwanda and Departure

After breakfast, you’ll make your way back to Rwanda via the Congo border. From here, you can proceed to the airport for your flight home or continue your travels.

End of the trip

Pricing and Inclusions

The 3-day, 2-night package for this unique gorilla trekking experience includes everything you need for a memorable adventure:

• $1,300 per person for a private trip shared with a group of 2

• $1,900 for solo travelers (single room accommodation)

Package includes:

• Transportation from Kigali to Bukavu and back

• Gorilla trekking permits

• Accommodation in Bukavu

• Meals and drinks during the trek

• Services of an expert local guide

Inclusions and Exclusions

What’s Included:

• 3 Nights Accommodation at selected hotels

• Bottled Water throughout your stay

• Meals as per the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)

• Professional Guide to enhance your experience

• Hotel/Airport Pickup and Drop-off for your convenience

• Park Entry/Admission Fees for the gorilla trek

• Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking Permit ($400 per person)

• Congolese Visa Fees ($100 per person, included in the package)

What’s Excluded:

• Travel Insurance (accident and sickness coverage)

• International Flights (arranged separately)

• Alcoholic Beverages (available for purchase)

• Souvenir Photos (available for purchase)

• Personal Items (such as souvenirs or extra expenses)

• Tips for your guide and hotel staff

Visa Information: You will need a Congo Visa to enter the country, which costs $100 per person. You can obtain this visa upon arrival at the Congo-Rwanda Border. Trek Africa Expeditions will assist you in securing this visa, which is included in the package price.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in DR Congo Cost?

Gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is an exciting adventure in both Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park. Similar to trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, you’ll need a gorilla trekking permit for access to the gorillas in these parks. Trek Africa Expeditions helps you navigate the permit booking process, ensuring you can easily plan your trek.

With our assistance, you don’t have to worry about booking your gorilla permit separately. We will check the availability of permits for your desired dates and handle the booking process after you make your payment. It’s recommended to secure your permit at least 5 months in advance, especially for Kahuzi Biega National Park, which only offers 2 gorilla trekking groups.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices for Kahuzi Biega National Park:

• Non-Residents: $400 per person

• East African Residents: $200 per person

• Congo Nationals: $20 per person

Gorilla Trekking Prices in Virunga National Park:

• High Season (Mid-Dec to Mid-Mar, June to Oct): $400 per person per trek

• Low Season (Mid-Mar to Mid-May, Mid-Oct to Mid-Dec): $200 per person per trek

Note: We recommend booking your gorilla trekking permit well in advance, as availability can be limited, particularly during peak seasons.

Where to Stay for Gorilla Trekking in DR Congo

Accommodation in Virunga National Park:

You’ll find a range of options in and around Virunga National Park, from budget to luxury. Here are some of the available choices:

• Budget: Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp (approximately $90-100 per night)

• Mid-Range: Tchegera Island Camp, Lulimbi Tented Camp (approximately $100-200 per night)

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

Let us know your preferences, and we will check availability and help with your booking.

Accommodation in Kahuzi Biega National Park:

You’ll also find various accommodation options near Kahuzi Biega National Park:

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

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

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

We can assist you in selecting and booking the best accommodation based on your preferences and budget.

How to Access DR Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in Congo takes place in Kahuzi Biega National Park and Virunga National Park, both located in the eastern part of the country. Here’s the travel process:

1. Fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda.

2. Drive from Kigali to Gisenyi, a town located near the Rwanda-Congo border.

3. Cross the border into Goma, DR Congo.

4. From Goma, it’s about a 2-hour drive to the park headquarters in either Kahuzi Biega National Park or Virunga National Park where your gorilla trek will begin.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking in DR Congo with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize unique and unforgettable gorilla safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Our team has extensive experience and is highly rated on TripAdvisor.

We combine exciting gorilla trekking experiences with eco-friendly, high-end adventure and wildlife safaris that prioritize biodiversity preservation, wildlife conservation, and uplifting local communities. In addition to gorilla trekking, we offer a range of safaris, including Big 5 safaris, chimpanzee trekking, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural encounters in Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Contact us today for more details or to book your DR Congo gorilla trekking adventure. Our team is here to help with everything from visa requirements to permit bookings and the best tour options for your trip!