Planning a Visit to Congo in 2026

Planning a Visit to Congo in 2026: Your Guide to Gorilla Trekking

If you’re considering a trip to Congo in 2026 and wondering, Where can I see gorillas in Congo?, you’ll be pleased to know that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) offers two incredible locations for gorilla trekking: Virunga National Park for mountain gorillas and Kahuzi Biega National Park for the unique lowland gorillas.

Virunga National Park: A Hub for Gorilla Trekking and More

Virunga National Park, one of the oldest and most biodiverse parks in Africa, is renowned for its mountain gorilla trekking. This park is not just about gorillas; it also offers visitors the chance to hike the stunning Nyiragongo Volcano, explore nature trails, spot unique bird species, and track chimpanzees.

Virunga is part of the Virunga Massif, a region that spans Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC. This massif is home to the world’s mountain gorillas, with each country offering different trekking experiences:

• Rwanda’s mountain gorillas are found in Volcanoes National Park,

• Uganda’s in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga National Parks,

• And Congo’s mountain gorillas are in Virunga National Park.

Kahuzi Biega National Park: The Land of Lowland Gorillas

If you’re keen to track lowland gorillas, Kahuzi Biega National Park is the place to visit. Created in 1970, Kahuzi Biega is home to the Eastern Lowland gorillas, the largest of all gorilla subspecies. These fascinating creatures are only found in this park, making it a unique experience.

The park is located 30 kilometers from Bukavu, and access is possible by both road and air. Established to protect the Grauer’s gorilla species, Kahuzi Biega offers treks into the wild where you can meet these incredible primates up close. There are currently 12 gorilla families in the park, with two habituated families – Chimanuka and Mugaruka – available for trekking. Chimanuka, in particular, is famous for being home to one of the largest gorilla families in the world, with over 36 individuals.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Congo Cost in 2026?

Gorilla trekking in Congo requires a permit for entry to both Virunga and Kahuzi Biega National Parks. Trek Africa Expeditions can assist you with the booking process, making your gorilla trek planning seamless. Gorilla permits typically need to be booked months in advance, especially for Kahuzi Biega, where only two habituated groups are open for trekking.

Gorilla Permit Pricing for Kahuzi Biega (2026):

• Non-Residents: USD 400

• East African Residents: USD 200

• Congolese Nationals: USD 20

For Virunga National Park, the prices vary based on the season:

• High Season (Mid-December to Mid-March, June to October): USD 400 per person per trek

• Low Season (Mid-March to Mid-May, Mid-October to Mid-December): USD 200 per person per trek

Trek Africa Expeditions offers all-inclusive tour packages to Congo, with no hidden fees. These packages range from budget to luxury, and we customize each trip to suit your preferences. For instance, a 2-day trip from Kigali to Virunga costs USD 1,100 per person in a group of two, including the gorilla permit, accommodation, meals, transportation, and guide services.

How to Access Congo for Gorilla Trekking

To reach Virunga and Kahuzi Biega National Parks, you can fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From there, it’s a 2-hour drive to the park headquarters in Gisenyi, Rwanda, followed by a border crossing into Goma, DRC, before continuing on to the parks.

The Best Time to Visit Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Congo’s tropical climate means it experiences rainfall throughout the year, so the best months to visit for gorilla trekking are during the dry season, which runs from December to February and June to September. These months offer drier trails and less dense vegetation, making it easier to spot gorillas.

While the wet season (March, April, May, October, and November) sees more rainfall and muddier trails, some visitors prefer this time for fewer crowds and discounted permits. If you visit during the wet season, you can trek in Virunga for as low as USD 200 per person.

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Accommodations near Virunga National Park range from budget to luxury. In the Virunga region, you’ll find options like:

• Budget: Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp (USD 90-100 per night)

• Mid-Range: Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp (USD 100-200 per night)

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

For Kahuzi Biega, accommodations include:

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

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

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

Trek Africa Expeditions can help you book your accommodations based on your budget and preferences.

Visiting Congo with Trek Africa Expeditions in 2026

Trek Africa Expeditions organize memorable gorilla trekking tours to Congo. Whether you’re trekking for mountain gorillas in Virunga or lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega, we offer well-planned itineraries that combine thrilling wildlife encounters with eco-friendly travel experiences. Let us handle all your bookings and provide expert guides for an unforgettable adventure. We focus on sustainable travel that benefits local communities and preserves the natural beauty of Congo’s wildlife.

Contact us to start planning your 2026 Congo gorilla trekking adventure.