Discover unparalleled wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes with guided tours through the Democratic Republic of Congo's iconic Virunga National Park.
Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, stands as one of Africa's most biodiverse and geologically active protected areas. This is not merely a park; it's a living testament to conservation efforts and a sanctuary for some of the planet's most sought-after wildlife. For travelers seeking an authentic and profound connection with nature, tours within Virunga offer an experience that transcends the ordinary. The park's dramatic landscapes, from the steaming slopes of Nyiragongo volcano to the dense rainforests teeming with life, provide a backdrop for adventures that are both exhilarating and deeply moving. These guided excursions are meticulously organized to ensure visitor safety while maximizing opportunities for incredible sightings and cultural immersion. Whether you're drawn by the allure of the endangered mountain gorillas, the fiery spectacle of an active volcano, or the sheer wildness of the African bush, Virunga promises an adventure etched in memory. Virunga National Park is renowned globally for being a critical habitat for mountain gorillas. Trekking to encounter these gentle giants in their natural environment is the park's most iconic activity. These tours are carefully managed, with limited permits issued daily to minimize impact on the gorilla families and ensure a respectful, intimate experience. Beyond the gorillas, Virunga offers a wealth of other experiences. Imagine standing on the rim of Nyiragongo, one of the world's largest and most active lava lakes, watching its fiery red glow paint the night sky. Or perhaps exploring the park's diverse ecosystems on foot, accompanied by experienced rangers who share their deep knowledge of the flora, fauna, and conservation challenges. These tours provide a unique window into a vital part of the world's natural heritage, highlighting the resilience of wildlife and the dedication of those working to protect it. For those ready to venture off the beaten path and witness the raw power and beauty of nature, Virunga National Park beckons with unparalleled opportunities.
Discover our top picks for virunga national park adventures in Democratic Republic of Congo

Gorilla trek & Nyiragongo hike is a learning and discovery experience that brings you to the legendary Virunga National Park and the majestic Nyiragongo volcano with the world largest crater lake. The package include transportation, visa, permits and a pick-up from Gisenyi or Kigali upon your arrival and the Goma city tour. We have partnered with a number of local hotels that offer up to 25% on your accommodation if you book the trip through our channel. Besides, we also provide you with a Goma surrounding Villages tour (on request) before or after the Gorilla trekking and Nyiragongo hike that helps you to know more about people and the area.

Spend one unforgettable night on the rim of a massive active volcano, and enjoy standing face to face with a magnificent mountain gorilla silverback in DR Congo Highlights · Africa Oldest Park · World Largest Gorillas · Varied Region of the continent · Eye to eye with the mountain Gorillas · Accommodation on Middle class Hotels · Largest lava lake · Overnight at crater rim · Side effects of eruption

A beautiful life experience tour with Kwafrika Travel Ltd at Nyiragongo volcano in the heart of Africa. Nyiragongo is a beautiful stratovolcano that features the world’s largest lava lake. The volcano’s forested lower slopes are home to a variety of animals, including chimpanzees, monkeys, and bushbuck. Nyiragongo’s summit rim is largely devoid of vegetation and is sometimes dusted with snow. From the rim, visitors can peer down into a churning lava lake and see and hear hot gases exploding up though a mosaic of molten lava. Although predictable and therefore safe for tourists, Nyiragongo is greatly feared during eruptions.

Kwafrika Travel Ltd brings you through the real Congo Adventure through this 9 days Congo Expedition exposing you to the world’s geological scandal. You will experience Nyiragongo which is stratovolcano that features the world's largest lava lake, you will encounter with the mountain gorilla exploring their general behavior and lifestyles (feeding, mating, nesting, body gestures and others) while they are in their natural habitat. After the challenging Nyiragongo Volcano hike, it will be place to a relax time in Eastern Congo’s iconic island. Tchegera Island is the greatest place to be and escape the hustles of the city more so after hiking Nyiragongo and tracking the gorillas. The trip ends in Kinshasa City where you will visit the Bonobos are our closest living relatives, go for a cruise on Congo river and hover through Kinshasa city like local.

Through this transboundary 13 Days DR Congo gorillas and Nyiragongo hike combine with relax time in zanzibar you will visit a group of unique apes (Eastern Lowland Gorillas and Mountain Gorillas) which is undeniably one of the most thrilling and most sought-after adventures that you should count a must to include in your next safari holiday. Included in the package is a hike to Nyiragongo which is a beautiful stratovolcano that features the world’s largest lava lake. While the trek up to the volcano will not be the easiest (it takes 4 to 6 hours), it will completely worth it once at the top. You will end your adventure with relax time in Zanzibar. There you will spend nights at an amazing resort where rooms are pure luxury, with mosaic bathrooms, healing earth bath products and a huge comfy bed. The views over the ocean in the mornings, and later of the crimson sunset, are breath-taking. You will visit the prison island, famous for its history of slavery.

Are you looking for the most exceptional adventures that will reward you with lifetime experiences while on safari in Africa? When it comes to Africa safaris, gorilla trekking with Kwafrika Travel Ltd in the Democratic Republic of Cong (DRC) has got it all for you to make your dreams come true! This journey makes you experience both Eastern Lowland Gorillas and endangered mountain gorillas, you will have a glimpse at these unique creatures is such a dramatic experience and it comes once in a lifetime. People are equally struck by the tenderness and care that mothers show their young. And then, of course, there are the juveniles who spend most of every waking hour at play and never cease to make visitors smile.

A safari in Africa to view a group of these unique apes is undeniably one of the most thrilling and most sought-after adventures that you should count a must to include in your next safari holiday. This 4 days Gorilla safari takes you to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lowland Gorillas are found in Kahuzi Biega national park. Located in South Kivu, Kahuzi Biega is a World Heritage site and one of two homes of the Eastern Lowland Gorillas. Spending one to four hours on a face to face encounter with these dramatic creatures is such a magical experience that comes once in a lifetime! Visitor encounters with these Great apes entirely involves exploring their general behavior and lifestyles (feeding, mating, nesting, body gestures and others) while they are in their natural habitat

Kwafrika Travel brings you through a 13 Days Nyiragongo Volcano and Rwenzori Mountain Hiking. In this trek up the mountains, trekkers combine lava with glaciers. Nyiragongo is a beautiful stratovolcano that features the world’s largest lava lake. Rwenzori mountains are the Africa’s third highest peak, the Margherita Peak. Nyiragongo summit is located at 3470 m of altitude while Margherita Peak is located at 5109 m of altitude, the conditions at that altitude are mostly chilly, with the peaks covered in glaciers on many occasions. As you trek up the two mountains, the flora is diverse with trees and valleys of ferns. The trees are alive with many species of birds and animals (Rwenzori Turaco, Guerrezzas monkey, Cercopithecus (Red tailed monkeyguenon) and primates) in the forest. We provide some equipment necessary for the climb like crampons, ropes, harnesses, carabinas, you need to bring good hiking boots, warm clothing warm sleeping bag, and rain gear.

Kwafrika Travel brings you through a 7 Days Rwenzori Mountain Hiking. In this trek up the mountains, trekkers reach Pic Maria or WASUWAMESO (Pleasure of the eyes) for panoramic views. During your trek, you will enjoy the forests and valleys. The flora is diverse with trees and valleys of ferns. The trees are alive with many species of birds and primates. As you walk up the trail you will see chimp nests high up in the tall trees, if you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of the resident chimpanzee as they scamper away. From Pic Maria you will see Pic Marguerite (5119m alt) actually called Pic Stanley, Pic Alexandra (5098m alt), Pic Albert (5088m alt), Pic Mobeus and also glacier Stanley. From there, We provide some equipment necessary for the climb like crampons, ropes, harnesses, carabinas, you need to bring good hiking boots, warm clothing warm sleeping bag, and rain gear. We do hire sleeping bags for those who need.

Kwafrika Travel brings you through a 8 Days Congo Rwenzori Mountains Hiking. In this trek up the mountains, trekkers reach the glacier and drink from black and green water. As you hike, the flora is diverse with trees and valleys of ferns. The trees are alive with many species of birds and primates. Walking up the trail you will see chimp nests high up in the tall trees, if you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of the resident chimpanzee as they scamper away. Trekkers will trek up to Moraine at 4350m of alt. Moraine means, a place where there were used to be glacier but it has disappeared. You will sleep in basic huts and will be accompanied by rangers, porters and guide. We provide some equipment necessary for the climb like crampons, ropes, harnesses, carabinas, you need to bring good hiking boots, warm clothing warm sleeping bag, and rain gear. We do hire sleeping bags for those who need.

Kwafrika Travel brings you through a 9 Days Congo Rwenzori Mountains Hiking. In this trek up the mountains, trekkers reach the Africa’s third highest peak, the Margherita Peak. Margherita Peak is located at 5109 m of altitude, the conditions at that altitude are mostly chilly, with the peaks covered in glaciers on many occasions. As you trek up the mountains, the flora is diverse with trees and valleys of ferns. The trees are alive with many species of birds and animals (Rwenzori Turaco, Guerrezzas monkey, Cercopithecus (Red tailed monkeyguenon) and primates) in the forest. As you walk up the trail you will see chimp nests high up in the tall trees, if you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of the resident chimpanzee as they scamper away. We provide some equipment necessary for the climb like crampons, ropes, harnesses, carabinas, you need to bring good hiking boots, warm clothing warm sleeping bag, and rain gear. We do hire sleeping bags for those who need.
These tours offer a chance to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, a truly life-changing experience guided by expert trackers.
Experience the dramatic spectacle of hiking to the summit of an active volcano and witnessing its mesmerizing lava lake up close.
Virunga is a hotspot of biodiversity, with tours providing opportunities to spot diverse wildlife beyond gorillas, including chimpanzees, okapis, and numerous bird species.
Your tour participation directly contributes to the vital conservation initiatives and anti-poaching efforts within Virunga National Park.
Travel alongside knowledgeable and well-trained park rangers who ensure your safety and enrich your understanding of the park's ecosystem and wildlife.
The park's scenery is breathtaking, featuring active volcanoes, lush rainforests, and sweeping savanna, offering stunning photographic opportunities.
These tours are the highlight for many visitors, focusing on tracking and spending time with habituated mountain gorilla families. Treks vary in difficulty and duration depending on the gorilla group's location.
Embark on an overnight trek to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo. This adventure involves hiking through varied terrain to witness the world's largest lava lake, often with an overnight stay at the summit.
Explore the park's lower-lying forests in search of wild chimpanzees. These tours offer a different primate viewing experience, often involving less strenuous trekking than gorilla treks.
These excursions focus on experiencing the wider biodiversity of Virunga, often involving scenic drives, nature walks, and opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife and bird species.
Tours typically range from 1 day for shorter hikes to 5 days for comprehensive volcano and gorilla trekking combinations. Gorilla treks themselves can last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours.
Expect a tropical climate. Temperatures can vary significantly with altitude, from warm in the lowlands to cooler at higher elevations, especially on the volcano. Rain is common year-round.
Group sizes are generally kept small for a better experience and to minimize impact. Gorilla trekking groups are typically limited to a maximum of 8 visitors per gorilla family.
Tours often include park entrance fees, ranger guides, accommodation (especially for volcano treks), and sometimes meals. Permit costs for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking are usually separate.
Most tours originate from Goma, the closest major city to the park. Specific meeting points and times will be provided upon booking, often at your accommodation in Goma or the park headquarters.
Beyond tour prices, expect to pay for gorilla and chimpanzee permits (which are substantial), porter services, personal expenses, tips for guides and drivers, and potentially visa fees.
Book your permits for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking well in advance, as they are limited and sell out quickly.
Pack light but bring essentials: waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle.
Be prepared for variable weather conditions; layers are key. A rain jacket is essential.
Consider hiring a porter for your treks, especially for the gorilla and volcano hikes. They are invaluable for carrying your gear and can offer support.
Physical fitness is important, particularly for the Nyiragongo hike and some gorilla treks which can involve steep ascents.
Carry sufficient cash in USD or Congolese Francs for permits, tips, and personal expenses, as ATMs are scarce outside of Goma.
Listen carefully to your ranger guides and follow their instructions at all times for your safety and the well-being of the wildlife.
Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially with the gorillas. Follow the ranger's guidance on interaction.
A: Virunga National Park has a dedicated team of rangers working to ensure visitor safety. While there have been historical security concerns in the region, the park is generally considered safe for tourists undertaking organized tours with experienced operators and guides, especially in the core tourist areas like those for gorilla trekking and volcano hikes.
A: The park is open year-round. However, the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) generally offer easier trekking conditions with less rain and mud, making it a popular choice for many visitors.
A: The cost of a mountain gorilla permit in Virunga National Park can vary. As of recent information, it is typically around $400 USD for foreign non-residents, but it's always best to check the latest official rates when booking.
A: Yes, many visitors combine these two iconic experiences. Tours are often structured to allow for both activities, typically requiring at least 3-4 days to comfortably undertake both the volcano hike and a gorilla trek.
A: Wear long, sturdy trousers and a long-sleeved shirt to protect yourself from vegetation and insects. Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots are essential. Layers are recommended as temperatures can change.
A: Yes, most foreign nationals will require a visa to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo. It's advisable to apply for this well in advance of your travel dates through the Congolese embassy or consulate in your country.
A: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry. It is also highly recommended to consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis and other recommended vaccinations before your trip.
A: Gorilla treks can range from easy to strenuous, depending on the gorillas' location and terrain. The Nyiragongo hike is considered challenging due to its steep ascent over 5-7 hours. Visitors should assess their fitness levels accordingly.
Discover the untamed heart of Africa, teeming with unparalleled biodiversity and vibrant cultures.
Experience the raw beauty of the Congo Basin rainforest, a vital ecosystem for the planet.
Engage with resilient communities and witness ancient traditions that endure through time.
Explore a rich tapestry of history, from pre-colonial kingdoms to more recent, complex narratives.
Embark on an adventure that offers profound encounters with wildlife and unique landscapes.
Uncover the true spirit of adventure in one of the world's most captivating destinations.
The Democratic Republic of Congo experiences a tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures and humidity year-round. The country is largely divided into two main climatic zones: the equatorial zone with consistent rainfall, and the savannah zones in the south and north which have distinct wet and dry seasons.
The best months to visit Democratic Republic of Congo are generally during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, which offer more accessible travel conditions and reduced humidity.
The peak season for tourism often coincides with the main dry periods, particularly July and August, offering the most favorable weather for wildlife viewing and trekking, but also meaning higher visitor numbers and potentially increased prices.
The wet seasons, from September to November and March to May, represent the off-season. While roads can be more challenging, this period offers fewer crowds and potentially lower costs for accommodation and transport.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Embark on transformative tours of the Democratic Republic of Congo's vast Congo Basin Rainforest, a global biodiversity hotspot.
Explore the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo through authentic cultural experiences, from vibrant city life to traditional village customs.
Encounter the majestic Eastern Lowland gorillas in their natural habitat with guided treks through the lush Virunga National Park. These tours offer a rare glimpse into the lives of these gentle giants.
Discover the vibrant heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo with expertly guided tours of Kinshasa, showcasing its rich culture, history, and dynamic urban landscape.
Discover the vibrant flavors and bustling marketplaces of the Democratic Republic of Congo on authentic culinary and market exploration tours.
Getting around Democratic Republic of Congo can be an adventure itself. For longer distances between major cities like Kinshasa and Goma, domestic flights are the most reliable, though often costly. Within cities, taxis and moto-taxis are common, but negotiate fares beforehand. For exploring national parks, hiring a 4x4 vehicle with a driver is highly recommended due to the often challenging road conditions. River travel on the Congo River is also a significant mode of transport for some regions. Planning ahead is crucial for navigating the vastness of Democratic Republic of Congo.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Democratic Republic of Congo adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.