Tips for Planning a Perfect Gorilla Trek in Congo

Are you planning to visit DR Congo to go meet the Mountain Gorillas in Virunga National Park or the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park and you would like to read about the Tips for Planning a Perfect Gorilla Trek in Congo? Read this article, Congo is one of the countries where you can go gorilla trekking. The cost of a gorilla trekking tour in Congo can vary depending on several factors, including the tour operator you choose, the duration of your trip, and whether you are a foreign or local visitor. Here are some of the best Tips for Planning a Perfect Gorilla Trek in Congo:

1. Research and Choose the Right Destination:
   • Congo is home to both lowland and mountain gorillas. Research and choose the specific gorilla species you want to trek.
   • Popular destinations include Virunga National Park to see the Mountain Gorillas and Kahuzi-Biega National Park to see the Eastern Lowland Gorillas
2. Obtain Necessary Permits:
   • Gorilla trekking requires a permit, and it’s crucial to obtain it in advance. You can book the Gorilla trekking permit in advance through a trustworthy local tour operator Eco Adventure Safaris a specialist for booking trips to Congo.
3. Plan Your Itinerary:
   • Plan your trip itinerary with a local tour operator Eco Adventure Safaris, considering travel time, accommodation, and the duration of the trek. Gorilla trekking often takes several hours, so plan accordingly.
4. Physical Fitness:
   • Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding. Ensure you are in good health and physical condition. The terrain can be challenging, so be prepared for a moderate to strenuous hike.
5. Pack Appropriately:
   • Pack sturdy and comfortable hiking boots, rain gear, long-sleeved shirts, and pants. It’s important to blend in with the natural surroundings and protect yourself from the elements.
6. Follow Guidelines:
   • Respect the guidelines provided by the park authorities. This includes maintaining a safe distance from the gorillas, minimizing noise, and following the instructions of your guide.
7. Book with a Reputable Tour Operator:
   • Choose a reputable tour operator Eco Adventure Safaris Limited with experience in organizing gorilla trekking tours to Congo. They can help with permits, and logistics, and provide knowledgeable guides.
8. Photography Etiquette:
   • While photography is allowed, be mindful of the gorillas’ comfort. Avoid using flash photography and keep a respectful distance. Your guide will provide guidance on the appropriate behavior.
9. Travel Insurance:
   • Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Gorilla trekking is a significant investment, and insurance can provide peace of mind.
10. Respect Local Culture:
    • Learn about and respect the local customs and cultures. Interact politely with the local communities and be conscious of your impact on the environment.
11. Check Visa Requirements:
    • Verify visa requirements for entering Congo. Ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents well in advance.
12. Be Flexible:
    • Weather conditions and the movements of gorilla groups can be unpredictable. Be flexible with your schedule in case there are any changes to the trekking plans.

What is the best time for Gorilla trekking in Congo?

Congo is located in the tropics and with this it experiences tropical climate and weather throughout the year, and Virunga National Park experience the same weather, the Park is prone to receiving uncertain rains any time of the day or week, good months to visit Virunga for gorilla trekking are dry season months which occurs in the months of December, January, February, June, July, August and September during these months it always easy to walk through the trails which are drier compared to the wet months then as well the vegetation is not fully grown and this makes sighting of gorillas easy and more clear. Other months which are slightly wet that is March, April, May, October and November most travelers avoid visiting gorillas during these months because the vegetation is fully grown and trails are much slippery making the trekking much harder.

For tourists interested in gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park have a special gorilla trekking offer during the wet season that is low season, during this time the gorilla permit costs USD200 per person per trek during the months from Mid-March to May and Mid-October to Mid-December (15th March to 15th May and 15th October to 15th December every year).

What is the cost of accommodation on a gorilla safari to Virunga National Park?

Accommodations in Virunga National Park ranges from budget, mid-range to luxury. Budget options include Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp among others fares range from 90-100 dollars a night per person, mid-range options include Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp among others fares range from 100-200 dollars a night per person and then Luxury options include Mikeno Lodge fares range from 200-400 dollars a night per person, All rates are on Full board basis. You let us know the best option that works for you and we will for availability and book you according.

What is the cost of transportation Congo?

You will fly to Kigali International Airport then connect to Gisenyi town; from Gisenyi town you will cross the Rwanda-Congo boarder to Goma town in DR Congo then drive towards the park headquarters of Virunga National Park from where you will do start the gorilla trek from, it is approximately a 2 hours’ drive from Gisenyi town to reach the park headquarters and we do use 4×4 vehicles. The transportation cost is inclusive of Vehicle hire per day which ranges from USD80-150, Driver guide allowance ranges from USD50 per day, and Fuel for the round trip.( Depending on the days you would like to spend in Congo. The transport cost can be reduced depending on the number of People on the safari as it can be shared.

Why book Gorilla Safari Congo Through Eco Adventure Safaris?

Eco Adventure Safaris is experienced in organizing amazing gorilla trekking safari experiences to Congo, Uganda and Rwanda. We are also highly rated and reviewed on trip Advisor. We combine gorilla trekking safaris with eco-friendly and unforgettable high-end adventure and wildlife safaris that help preserve biodiversity, conserve wildlife and uplift local communities, these include chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris and game viewing, Mountain Hiking, Boat cruises excursions and Cultural encounters to give you a memorable and best African Safari experience including popular and great African safari destinations Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana and Namibia. Feel free to contact us about the Tips for Planning a Perfect Gorilla Trek in Congo.