Reliable Tour Operators in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Reliable Tour Operators in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Planning a trip to the DR Congo? Here’s how to find trusted local tour companies. Traveling in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) requires careful planning, especially when it comes to choosing reliable tour operators. With limited tourism infrastructure and safety concerns in some regions, it’s crucial to work with reputable companies that understand the terrain and logistics. Trek Africa Expeditions is a trusted operator with extensive experience in organizing safaris and gorilla trekking adventures in eastern Congo.

Where to See Gorillas in Congo: A Complete Guide

Discover the best places to track mountain and lowland gorillas in DR Congo.
Congo is home to three distinct gorilla species, each found in different national parks. Virunga National Park is the only place in the country where you can trek endangered mountain gorillas. For eastern lowland gorillas, visit Kahuzi-Biega and Maiko National Parks, while western lowland gorillas are found in Lesio Louna Reserve, accessible via boat in northern Congo.

Virunga National Park: Gorilla Trekking and Beyond

Explore Africa’s oldest national park and its incredible biodiversity.
Located in eastern DR Congo, Virunga National Park is famed for its mountain gorilla trekking, but that’s just the beginning. Visitors can also hike the active Nyiragongo Volcano, go birdwatching, enjoy guided nature walks, and experience chimpanzee tracking and habituation. Virunga forms part of the Virunga Massif, a transboundary conservation area shared by Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda—home to the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park: The Best Place to See Eastern Lowland Gorillas

Track the world’s largest gorilla species in their natural habitat.
Established in 1970, Kahuzi-Biega National Park offers one of the most unique primate experiences in Africa: trekking to see Grauer’s gorillas, also known as eastern lowland gorillas. These gentle giants are larger than their mountain cousins and only found in this region. The park lies just 30 km from Bukavu, and is home to 12 gorilla families, two of which—Chimanuka and Mugaruka—are habituated and open to tourists.

Gorilla Trekking Permits in Congo: Costs and Booking Info

Everything you need to know about securing your gorilla permit.
To trek gorillas in DR Congo, you’ll need a valid permit. Trekking mountain gorillas in Virunga or lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega requires advance booking. Trek Africa Expeditions helps arrange gorilla permits, lodge reservations, and complete tour logistics.

Permit costs:

• Virunga (Mountain Gorillas):

  • $400 per person in high season

  • $200 per person in low season (Mid-March–May & Mid-Oct–Mid-Dec)

• Kahuzi-Biega (Eastern Lowland Gorillas):

  • $400 for foreign tourists

  • $200 for East African residents

  • $20 for Congolese nationals

We recommend booking permits at least 4–5 months in advance, especially for Kahuzi-Biega where only two habituated groups are available.

Best Time to Visit Congo for Gorilla Trekking

When to go for the best trekking conditions and wildlife sightings.
Congo’s tropical climate means rain is possible year-round, but there are two main dry seasons that offer the best trekking conditions: December to February and June to September. Trails are drier and less slippery during these months, and vegetation is thinner, improving gorilla visibility. Wet months—March to May and October to November—are less ideal but offer discounted permit rates and fewer crowds.

Budget and Luxury Lodges for Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Top accommodation options near Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Parks.

Where to Stay near Virunga National Park:

• Budget: Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp ($90–$100/night)

• Mid-range: Tchegera Island Camp, Lulimbi Camp ($100–$200/night)

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

Where to Stay near Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Bukavu):

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

• Mid-range: Coco Lodge Bukavu ($100–$200/night)

• Luxury: L’Orchidées Safari Club ($200–$400/night)

Trek Africa Expeditions will help you select the best accommodation to suit your budget and preferences, and handle all bookings on your behalf.

How to Get to Congo for Gorilla Trekking

Step-by-step guide to accessing Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Parks.
Most travelers fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, then drive approximately 4–5 hours to Gisenyi, near the Congo border. From there, cross into Goma, DR Congo, and continue by road to either Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega National Park. The journey to Kahuzi-Biega takes about 2 hours from Goma. Trek Africa Expeditions can organize private transfers, accommodation, and border support for a seamless experience.

Book Your Congo Gorilla Trekking Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions

Expertly crafted safaris in Congo, Uganda, Rwanda, and beyond. Trek Africa Expeditions specializes in authentic gorilla trekking tours across DR Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda, combining conservation-conscious travel with immersive wildlife and cultural experiences. Our packages include chimpanzee tracking, big game safaris, hiking expeditions, boat safaris, and community tours in top destinations such as Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, and Botswana.

Let us help you plan an unforgettable safari in Congo with trusted local expertise. Contact us today to learn more about gorilla trekking packages and how to travel safely and responsibly in DR Congo.