Ultimate Guide to Visiting Virunga National Park, Congo

Virunga National Park, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is one of Africa’s most remarkable destinations for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. As the oldest national park on the continent, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979 and offers a unique combination of stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, including the endangered mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and much more. Here’s everything you need to know to make your trip to Virunga National Park unforgettable.

About Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park, known for its rich biodiversity, is situated in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas, alongside other incredible wildlife. Virunga’s dense tropical rainforests, active volcanoes like Nyiragongo Volcano, and diverse range of ecosystems make it a must-visit destination. Visitors can also track golden monkeys, and chimpanzees, or embark on nature walks through this incredible landscape.

How to Organize and Book a Safari Trip to Virunga National Park

When organizing and booking a safari trip to Virunga National Park, look no further than Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, the premier destination management outfit. With offices in Uganda, Monumental Expeditions takes care of all the logistics, including securing your gorilla permits, arranging accommodations, and organizing transportation to and from the park. Whether traveling from Kigali or Uganda, Monumental Expeditions offers a fleet of 4×4 vehicles to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey to Virunga National Park.

Tour Packages in Virunga National Park

Monumental Expeditions offers a variety of gorilla trekking tours, including:

Getting Your Congo Visa

All travelers need a visa to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo. Unlike Uganda and Kenya, where visas are available on arrival, you must apply for a Congo visa in advance. Single-entry visas for up to one month cost $100, and for longer stays, the prices can range up to $400 for a six-month visa. Make sure to apply at least 2-3 weeks before your trip, as the visa cannot be obtained on arrival. An invitation letter and a yellow fever vaccination certificate are required for your application.

Is It Safe to Visit Virunga National Park?

Despite the past challenges faced by the region, including civil unrest and the Ebola outbreak, Virunga National Park is now considered safe for visitors. Monumental Expeditions monitors the situation closely and ensures your safety during your safari. As a visitor, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines provided by your safari guide and park rangers.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park costs $400 per person for a gorilla trekking permit. This permit is the primary cost you’ll incur for the trek. The trek itself begins with a briefing at 7:45 am, followed by the trek into the Virunga forest to find the gorillas. Once you encounter them, you will spend an hour with the gorillas, taking photos and learning about their habitat and behavior.

How to Get Gorilla Trekking Permits

To secure your gorilla trekking permit in Virunga National Park, simply contact Monumental Expeditions, and we’ll handle everything for you. Once you confirm your trip and make payment, we will secure your permits and send you a confirmation receipt. This ensures a smooth booking process for your gorilla trek.

Other Safari Activities in Virunga National Park

Chimpanzee Tracking and Habituation: You can track chimpanzees or engage in a more immersive chimpanzee habituation experience, which involves spending an entire day with the chimpanzees.
Nature Walks: Explore the stunning Virunga forest with a nature walk, where you can see a wide variety of plant species, birds, and other wildlife.
Nyiragongo Volcano Hike: A hike up the Nyiragongo volcano to witness its active lava lake is an adventure not to be missed.
Bird Watching: With over 700 species of birds, Virunga National Park is a bird-watcher’s paradise.
Lowland Gorilla Trekking: Visit Kahuzi Beiga National Park for lowland gorilla trekking, a unique experience available in only a few places on Earth.

Best Time to Visit Virunga National Park for Gorilla Trekking

The best time to visit Virunga for gorilla trekking is during the dry season, which typically occurs from December to February and June to September. During these months, the trails are drier, and the gorillas are easier to spot. The wet months (March to May and October to November) tend to make the trekking more difficult due to muddy trails and thick vegetation.

Where to Stay in Virunga National Park

Accommodations in Virunga National Park cater to a range of budgets, from basic tented camps to luxurious lodges. Options include:

Budget: Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Mid-Range: Tchegera Island Camp, Lulimbi Tented Camp
Luxury: Mikeno Lodge

How to Access Virunga National Park

To access Virunga National Park, fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, then drive to the Rwanda-Congo border at Gisenyi. From there, you will cross into Goma, DR Congo, and continue to the park’s headquarters, which is approximately two hours by car.

Conclusion: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Virunga National Park offers one of the most remarkable wildlife experiences in the world. Whether you’re trekking to see the mountain gorillas, exploring the park’s diverse habitats, or hiking the Nyiragongo volcano, a trip to Virunga is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Let Monumental Expeditions and Safaris help you plan the perfect journey to this extraordinary destination.

Book Your Virunga Adventure Today

Don’t wait to embark on this life-changing adventure! Contact Monumental Expeditions and Safaris to book your gorilla trekking experience in Virunga National Park. Our team of experts will ensure your trip is seamless, from securing permits to providing expert guides. Book now and make memories that will last a lifetime!