Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest national park and one of its most biologically rich. Here, mountain gorillas live on the forested slopes of the Virunga volcanoes, sharing a landscape shaped by fire, mist, and fertile soil. Treks in Virunga are comparable in intimacy to those in Uganda and Rwanda, with habituated families and experienced rangers guiding visitors through the forest.

The park’s conservation story adds depth to every encounter. Rangers risk their lives to protect wildlife, and every permit directly supports conservation, community development, and park security.

Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is home to the eastern lowland gorilla, the largest gorilla subspecies on Earth. These gorillas inhabit expansive lowland and montane forests near Bukavu, creating a trekking experience that feels broader and more open than mountain gorilla habitats.

Encounters here are powerful and humbling, with gorilla groups moving calmly through vast forest spaces. The park’s size and biodiversity reinforce the sense of scale and wilderness that defines gorilla trekking in DRC.

Conservation and Responsible Tourism

Gorilla trekking in DRC plays a critical role in conservation funding. Permit revenue supports ranger patrols, habitat protection, and local livelihoods, helping safeguard gorillas in regions facing significant pressure. Responsible tourism is not optional here, it is essential.

Visitors are expected to follow strict health and behavior guidelines to protect gorillas from disease and stress, reinforcing the shared responsibility between traveler and conservationist.

Safety, Planning, and Practical Considerations

Travel in DRC requires careful planning and up-to-date information. Gorilla trekking is conducted in secured park areas with ranger escorts, and trips are typically organized through reputable operators working closely with park authorities. Conditions can change, making flexibility and preparation key elements of the experience.

Those who travel to Congo do so with awareness, respect, and a willingness to adapt, qualities that are rewarded with deeply meaningful encounters.

Who Gorilla Trekking In DRC Is Best For

This experience appeals to seasoned travelers, conservation-focused visitors, photographers, and those seeking authenticity over polish. It is ideal for people who value rarity, impact, and immersion rather than convenience alone.

For many, trekking gorillas in DRC becomes the most memorable wildlife experience of their lives precisely because of its intensity and depth.