Visit the Senkwekwe Mountain Gorilla Orphanage in DR Congo

Visit the Senkwekwe Mountain Gorilla Orphanage in DR Congo

Get up close with rescued mountain gorillas at the world’s only mountain gorilla orphanage. Located within the lush forests of Virunga National Park in eastern DR Congo, the Senkwekwe Mountain Gorilla Orphanage is the only sanctuary in the world dedicated to the care of orphaned mountain gorillas. Named in memory of a beloved silverback gorilla, Senkwekwe, who was tragically killed in 2007, this center offers a rare and moving opportunity to witness conservation in action.

Here, you’ll see experienced caretakers feeding, comforting, and even hugging young gorillas rescued from poacher traps or militia attacks. Gorillas like Ndakazi and Ndeze, the first orphans to arrive, have found a second chance at life thanks to this facility.

Why Visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage?

• World’s only sanctuary for orphaned mountain gorillas

• Witness intimate gorilla care routines

• Support vital conservation and anti-poaching efforts

• Located within Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park

The Senkwekwe Center not only rescues gorillas but also symbolizes resilience and hope in the face of threats like poaching, habitat destruction, and militia activity in the region.

How to Get to the Senkwekwe Mountain Gorilla Orphanage

The Senkwekwe Center is located near Mikeno Lodge in Virunga National Park, close to Goma in eastern DR Congo.

Travel route to the orphanage:

1. Fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda

2. Drive to Gisenyi (approx. 3 hours)

3. Cross the border into DR Congo at Goma

4. Proceed by road to Virunga National Park

Note: All equipment must be declared at the border for security purposes. Trek Africa Expeditions will assist with all logistics and documentation.

Entry Requirements: DR Congo Visa and Permits

To visit the Senkwekwe Mountain Gorilla Orphanage, you must secure a DR Congo visa in advance. Unlike some neighboring countries, Congo does not offer visas on arrival.

Visa types and costs:

• 1-month single entry: $100

• 2-month single entry: $135

• 6-month single entry: $400

You’ll also need:

• A valid yellow fever vaccination card

• An official invitation letter, which Trek Africa Expeditions can help you obtain

Apply for your visa at least 2–3 weeks before travel at your nearest DR Congo embassy or consulate.

Is It Safe to Visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage?

While DR Congo has experienced instability in the past, the areas around Virunga National Park and Senkwekwe Orphanage are now considered safe for tourism. Trek Africa Expeditions continuously monitors the security situation in partnership with local authorities and the park itself. We prioritize your safety and will advise you accordingly before your journey.

Where to Stay Near the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage

There are several comfortable lodging options near the orphanage, catering to different budgets:

Budget Lodges ($90–$100 per night)

• Kibumba Tented Camp

• Bukima Tented Camp

Mid-range Lodges ($100–$200 per night)

• Lulimbi Tented Camp

• Tchegera Island Camp

Luxury Lodges ($200–$400 per night)

• Mikeno Lodge (closest to the orphanage)

• Serena Hotel Goma

Trek Africa Expeditions will help you select and book the best option based on your preferences and itinerary.

Best Time to Visit the Senkwekwe Mountain Gorilla Orphanage

The orphanage is open to visitors year-round, but the dry seasons—from December to February and June to September—offer the best conditions for travel and exploration.

Virunga National Park lies in a tropical climate zone, so brief rains can occur any time. However, the drier months are ideal for better accessibility and clearer views.

Vehicle Hire and Transport in DR Congo

Trek Africa Expeditions provides customized transport options for all trips in DR Congo. For visits to Virunga and other remote areas, we recommend 4×4 Land Cruisers to navigate rugged terrain safely and comfortably.

We also arrange:

• Scheduled and charter flights

• Private vehicle transfers based on your itinerary

Let us know your travel route, and we’ll calculate fuel and transport costs accordingly.

Why Book Your Visit with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions is a trusted tour operator offering exceptional safari and trekking experiences across DR Congo, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania. With deep local knowledge and a dedicated team both in the field and office, we ensure every detail of your adventure is expertly handled.

Why travelers choose us:

• Specialists in Congo safaris and gorilla conservation tours

• Up-to-date travel information and logistics

• Highly rated on TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings

• Proud members of AUTO (Association of Uganda Tour Operators)

• Locally owned and operated by Ugandans—we know what we sell

Let us help you plan a meaningful and unforgettable visit to the Senkwekwe Mountain Gorilla Orphanage.