How much does it cost to trek gorillas in Virunga National Park
Are you planning and interested in visiting Africa to go Gorilla trekking to meet the Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat? would like to know how much the Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park before booking your safari, Explore Rwanda Tours explains the cost to trek gorillas in Virunga National Park. Virunga National Park is a breathtaking place in Africa, known for being one of the oldest national parks and home to diverse tropical rainforests. It’s especially famous for its mountain gorillas, which many visitors come to see up close through trekking. More so, this stunning national park is one of the three national parks that are found in the Virunga ranges, other national parks include Mgahinga Gorilla National Park found in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park found in Rwanda all these national parks are home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Other primates to see in Virunga National Park include Golden Monkeys, Chimpanzees, and various species of monkeys. Beyond gorilla trekking, there are a variety of fun activities you can enjoy, such as hiking up Nyiragongo volcano, bird watching, nature walks, and tracking chimpanzees as they adapt to their environment.
Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park is one of the main highlights and one of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences that attracts many tourists during their visit to the democratic republic of Congo. The Virunga National Park has 10 Gorilla families habituated. They are the only gorillas available for tracking and tourism purposes. This activity like any other gorilla trekking destination starts early in the morning at the park headquarters with a briefing at 7:45 am about the rules and regulations as well as the expectations abs carry-on items while in the forest. Thereafter you will be allocated an armed ranger guide who will lead you to the forest explaining to you each feature you’ll meet on your way. This activity involves on foot trek through the lush forests of Virunga in search of a habituated gorilla family. this activity is challenging and it requires one to be fit at the time of the trek.
Once you find them, you’ll be allowed to spend one hour interacting with them as they do with their daily activities such as playing, feeding, and grooming among others. You’ll have a chance to take photographs, see other attractions like birds and primates depending on your luck, and learn more about the mountain gorilla habitat and how they survive in Virunga National Park.
How much does it cost to trek gorillas in Virunga National Park
The cost of gorilla trekking permits in Virunga National Park is $400 per person per trek for foreign nonresidents and foreign residents and $200 per person for Congolese citizens. These permits are restricted to persons above 15 years to persons 85 years depending on the fitness levels. Obtaining gorilla permits in Congo can be done directly by booking them through Virunga National Park or through a trusted tour operator like Explore Rwanda Tours. Note that, tourists planning to embark on a gorilla trekking safari in Virunga National Park need to get a visa to be allowed to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Congo visa must be applied for in advance at the closest Consulate or Embassy.
What is the best time to trek gorillas in Virunga National Park
Gorilla trekking safaris in the Virunga National Park are carried out throughout the year. But the most rewarding time to embark on this exhilarating activity is during the dry season which runs from December to February and then June to early September. These months make it easier to navigate to the park and offer a clear view of gorillas given the vegetation cover is not too high grown. Other months that tend to be a bit rainy are March, April, May, October, and November. Many travelers steer clear of gorilla trekking during these times because the plants are really lush, making the paths muddy and more difficult to navigate. This can make the hiking experience a lot tougher.
Where to stay during your gorilla trekking safaris in Virunga National Park
While there are a range of accommodation options available in Virunga National Park, the accommodation facilities in the park range from luxury, and mid-range to budget-friendly. Some of the accommodation facilities options here include Bukima Tented Camp, Mikeno Lodge, Kibumba Tented Camp, Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp among others
What to pack for Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
Visitors planning to trek the gorillas in Virunga National Park will need a comfortable, hard-wearing, pair of walking shoes or boots. Conditions are generally very muddy in the forest when it is raining. It is also advisable to wear a long-sleeved cotton shirt and lightweight long trousers to protect yourself from the undergrowth, stinging nettles, and biting ants. Other essential items you shouldn’t forget to park is your visa, gorilla trekking permit, Camera, Insect Repellent, refilling Water Bottle, Gardening gloves for gorilla tracking, Hat and Sunscreen, Rain Jacket, Binoculars, cash, tip, and Sweater among others.
How to get to Virunga National Park for gorilla trekking safaris
Planning a trip to see the gorillas in Virunga National Park, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)? Here’s a breakdown of how to get there:
Your journey typically starts by flying into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From Kigali, you’ll travel to Gisenyi, a Rwandan town situated right on the border with the DRC. Gisenyi is a pleasant place to spend some time before crossing over.
Once you’re in Gisenyi, you’ll cross the border into the DRC and enter the town of Goma. Goma is a lively town that serves as a gateway to Virunga.
From Goma, the park headquarters is roughly a two-hour drive. This drive is often quite scenic, offering glimpses of the beautiful landscape you’ll be exploring. Once you arrive at the park headquarters, your gorilla trekking safari adventure can begin!
