Where to Stay in Kahuzi Biega National Park

Discovering Accommodation Options in Kahuzi Biega National Park – Bukavu Town in the Democratic Republic of Congo

When it comes to staying in Kahuzi Biega National Park, options are limited within the park itself. The primary choice is a campsite operated by the national park authorities. However, it’s important to note that if you choose this option, you will need to bring your own camping gear, as facilities are basic.

For those seeking more comfortable overnight accommodations, your best bet is to look to Bukavu town, which is the nearest city to Kahuzi Biega National Park. In Bukavu, you’ll find various hotels and lodges that offer a range of amenities and services to make your stay enjoyable while you explore the wonders of the park.

Accommodation Choices in Kahuzi Biega National Park

Several accommodation options in Bukavu cater to the needs of travelers visiting Kahuzi Biega National Park:

1. L’Orchids Safari Club: This is an excellent choice for those looking for a luxurious stay. The lodge offers comfortable rooms, delicious cuisine, and stunning views.
2. Coco Lodge: For a charming and cozy experience, Coco Lodge is a popular pick. It provides a serene environment to relax after your adventures in the park.
3. Hotel Begonias Bukavu: Offering a mix of comfort and affordability, Hotel Begonias is a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
4. Exodus Budget Lodge: As the name suggests, this lodge is perfect for travelers on a tight budget. It provides basic yet comfortable accommodation.
5. Lake Side Bukavu Hotel: With its lakeside location, this hotel offers beautiful vistas and a peaceful atmosphere.
6. Mount Kahuzi Hotel Bukavu: Enjoy a comfortable stay at Mount Kahuzi Hotel, which provides a range of services to make your visit pleasant.

Exploring Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking

Kahuzi Biega National Park is renowned for its Eastern lowland gorilla trekking experiences in the heart of the Congo. These gorillas are distinct from other gorilla species due to their stocky bodies, large hands, and short muzzles. They primarily feed on fruits and herbaceous materials.

The park offers opportunities to track two Eastern lowland gorilla families that have been exposed for tracking, while others are still undergoing habituation. These gentle giants live in peace and harmony within groups ranging from 5 to 30 members, with an alpha male leading the way, responsible for protection and establishing the family’s home.

Embarking on a trek with these lowland gorillas takes you off the beaten path, where the time and money you invest promise life-altering experiences that you will cherish forever. Trekking involves navigating the tropical rainforest along different trails, depending on where the gorillas spent the previous night. The treks can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 5 hours, with most visitors feeling the true essence of family life during the precious hour spent in the presence of these primates.

Mount Kahuzi & Biega Hiking

The adventure doesn’t end with gorilla trekking. Kahuzi Biega National Park offers spectacular views from the summits of two volcanic peaks, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, nestled within the heart of the park. These dormant volcanoes provide panoramic views of the park, its wildlife, neighboring communities, and even neighboring countries. The bamboo and sub-alpine vegetation on these peaks are home to various animals, offering opportunities to encounter owl-faced monkeys and a variety of bird species.

Bird Watching in Kahuzi Biega

Kahuzi Biega is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting approximately 342 bird species, with 42 of them being endemic to the park. Among the avian treasures you might spot are the yellow-crested helmet-shrike, African green broadbill, Congo peafowl, Rockefeller’s, and many more. The park’s commitment to conservation has led to its inclusion in the list of threatened sites under the protection of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Nature Walks

Nature enthusiasts can explore the tropical rainforest through a series of guided nature walks. These walks take you to various tourism sites, including the Tshibati waterfalls and three other falls. The journey exposes trekkers to different vegetation types, diverse wildlife, and the beautiful sounds of birds singing from the treetops, providing a soothing and relaxing experience. By the time you leave the forest, your mind will be clear, and your knowledge of the park’s wildlife will be enriched, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

Chimpanzee Tracking

In addition to gorillas, Kahuzi Biega National Park is home to another primate species: chimpanzees. These elusive creatures are known for their shyness, and encounters with them are often by chance. They primarily reside in the lower parts of the park, where their vocalizations can be heard from a distance of up to 3 kilometers.

For an exceptional adventure in Kahuzi Biega National Park and its surrounding areas, choose from a range of accommodation options in Bukavu town to suit your preferences and budget. Whether you’re trekking gorillas, hiking the volcanoes, birdwatching, embarking on nature walks, or hoping for a chance chimpanzee encounter, this national park promises unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo.