Kahuzi Biega national park

Lowland gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega national park – The best lowland gorilla trekking in Eastern DR Congo

The Kahuzi Biega National Park (Parc National de Kahuzi Biega) is a conservation area located in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo near Bukavu Town. The park is the epitome of those seeking Congo gorilla safaris. It is the last safe haven for the Eastern Lowland Gorillas. The lowland gorillas are described as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List with about 5000 members only remaining worldwide. Kahuzi-Biega national park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its distinctive. It is also a prolific bio-diversity of the rain forest and lowland gorillas.

About the gorilla Sanctuary

This sanctuary for lowland gorillas in Congo covers an area of 6000 square kilometers on the western bank of Lake Kivu near the Rwandan Border. It gets its name from the two neighboring volcanoes of Mt. Kahuzi and Mt. Biega. The park was condoned off in 1970 by Belgian photographer and conservationist Adrien Deschryver. The Zoological and Forest Reserve of Mt. Kahuzi was the earliest conservation area created in 1937 by the colonial government and later became part of the park in 1970.

For those looking to invigorate their wanderlust with a genuine African encounter, this world heritage site crowns the continent’s wealth with diverse 1178 plant species and 136 mammals. The eastern lowland gorilla is the most prominent of the fauna in the park. The park is also gifted with several other primates like the owl-faced monkey and eastern chimpanzees. The park also offers thrilling wildlife tours in Congo where you can sight the bush buffalo, African forest elephant, Alexander’s bush squirrel, Galago, horse shoe bat and the shrew.

In addition to that, the grounds have intoxicating swamps, marshlands and forests that thrive on hydromorphic ground at high altitudes that are scarce globally. The equatorial rain forest occupies the western park parts. The east is majorly mountainous unceasing vegetation cover that exhibits the prime vegetation forms of swamp, rain forests, bamboo, heath as well as savanna.

For a culminating African gorilla trekking experience, the Democratic Republic of Congo not only offers you the lowland gorilla experience but also the mountain gorilla encounter in the Virunga National Park. Hence Congo remain the best tourist destination where one can sight both the great apes and enjoy the finest tour activity in the world.

10 facts about Kahuzi Biega national park

Here are ten facts about Kahuzi Biega National Park:

• The Park is located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo and covers an area of 6,000 square kilometers.

• The park was established in 1970 to protect the habitat of the eastern lowland gorilla, which is one of the largest primates in the world.

• The park is named after two extinct volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, which are located within the park’s boundaries.

• The eastern lowland gorilla is the star attraction of the park, with an estimated population of around 250 individuals.

• The park is also home to other wildlife species, including forest elephants, chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and over 330 bird species.

• The Park is one of the few places in the world where visitors can see the eastern lowland gorilla in the wild.

• The gorillas in the park are habituated to human presence, allowing visitors to observe them in their natural habitat.

• Gorilla trekking is the most popular activity in the park, and visitors can also participate in bird watching, nature walks, and cultural tours to visit the nearby Pygmy communities.

• The park has faced several challenges, including poaching, encroachment, and political instability in the region.
• The Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important sites for biodiversity conservation in Africa.

Eastern lowland gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega national park

Eastern lowland gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park is a unique and exciting experience that allows visitors to observe these magnificent primates in their natural habitat. Here is what you need to know about gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park:

Gorilla trekking in the Park is the main attraction and requires a permit, which can be obtained through a tour operator or the park headquarters in Bukavu.

The cost of the permit

The cost varies depending on the season and the number of people in the group. Eastern lowland gorilla trekking in the park costs USD 400 per person. Visitors are required to have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate and to undergo a health check before the trek. Gorilla treks usually start early in the morning, and visitors are grouped into groups of up to eight people. The trek can take several hours, and visitors should be prepared to hike through dense forests and steep terrain. Once the gorillas are located, visitors are allowed to spend up to one hour observing them from a distance of at least seven meters.

Visitors are required to follow the park’s rules and regulations during the trek, including maintaining a safe distance from the gorillas and not using flash photography.

Gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park

Gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park is available throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from June to August and December to February.

Visitors are advised to use a reputable tour operator for their safety and comfort and to check the security situation in the region before planning a visit. Love Uganda Safaris and Tours Ltd offer one of the best lowland gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega national park, Check out the sample itinerary Here

The eastern lowland gorilla is the star attraction of Kahuzi-Biega National Park, with an estimated population of around 250 individuals. The gorillas in the park are habituated to human presence, allowing visitors to observe them in their natural habitat. Visitors to the Park can participate in gorilla trekking adventures, which involve hiking through the forest to locate one of the habituated gorilla families. The trek can take several hours and requires a reasonable level of fitness.

Apart from gorilla trekking, other activities that visitors can enjoy in the Park include bird watching, nature walks, and cultural tours to visit the nearby Pygmy communities.

Gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows visitors to connect with nature and wildlife and contribute to the conservation of these magnificent primates.

Chimpanzee Habituation at Lwiro Sanctuary – Chimpanzee habituation 

Chimpanzee habituation at Lwiro Sanctuary is a unique experience that allows visitors to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation efforts. Here is what you need to know about chimpanzee habituation at Lwiro Sanctuary:

Lwiro Sanctuary is located in the Democratic Republic of Congo, near the city of Bukavu, and is home to over 70 chimpanzees that have been rescued from poachers and illegal wildlife trade. Chimpanzee habituation at Lwiro Sanctuary involves spending a full day with a group of chimpanzees that are undergoing the process of habituation, which means they are gradually becoming accustomed to human presence.

The habituation process

It is conducted by a team of experienced researchers and guides who ensure the safety of both visitors and chimpanzees. Visitors are required to undergo a health check before the habituation. They must wear protective clothing, including gloves and face masks, to prevent the transmission of diseases to the chimpanzees. During the habituation, visitors can observe the chimpanzees as they move, play, and interact with each other and their environment.

Visitors can also learn about the behavior and social dynamics of chimpanzees and the efforts to conserve and protect them. The proceeds from the chimpanzee habituation program go towards the care and rehabilitation of the chimpanzees at Lwiro Sanctuary and the conservation of chimpanzees in the wild.

Chimpanzee habituation at Lwiro Sanctuary is available throughout the year, but visitors are advised to book in advance and to use a reputable tour operator for their safety and comfort.

The experience of chimpanzee habituation at Lwiro Sanctuary is a unique. It is an educational opportunity to connect with these intelligent and fascinating primates and to contribute to their conservation and protection.

Visitors should follow the rules and regulations of the sanctuary during the habituation, including maintaining a safe distance from the chimpanzees and respecting their natural behavior and environment.

Birding tours

Birding in Kahuzi Biega National Park is a wonderful experience for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The park is home to over 330 bird species, including several endemic and rare bird species. Here is what you need to know about birding in Kahuzi Biega National Park:

The park is home to a variety of bird species. They include African green broadbill, Rockefeller’s sunbird, Congo peafowl, and the yellow-crested helmet-shrike. Bird watching in the Park can be done throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from June to August and December to February.

Visitors can participate in guided bird-watching tours with experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the park’s bird species. The bird-watching tours can be customized to suit the interests and preferences of visitors and can be combined with other activities such as gorilla trekking and nature walks.

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and footwear and to bring binoculars, a field guide, and a camera.

The bird-watching tours in Kahuzi Biega National Park provide a unique opportunity to observe and learn about the park’s bird species and their habitats.

Visitors should follow the rules and regulations of the park during the bird-watching tours, including respecting the park’s wildlife and environment.

Bird watching in Kahuzi Biega National Park is a great way to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the park’s bird species.

Hiking tours 

Hiking tours in the park offer visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and cultural heritage. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the eastern lowland gorilla, forest elephants, chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and over 330 bird species.

Hiking tours in the Park can be customized to suit the interests and preferences of visitors. Popular hiking tours in the park include hiking to the summit of Mount Kahuzi. This is one of the two extinct volcanoes that gave the park its name. Other hiking tours in the park include nature walks through the park’s rainforest. Visits to waterfalls and rivers, and cultural tours to nearby Pygmy communities.

Hiking tours in the Park can be combined with other activities such as gorilla trekking, bird watching, and wildlife safaris. Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and footwear, and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. The hiking tours in Kahuzi Biega National Park provide a unique opportunity to explore the park. Enjoy its  natural beauty and learn about its wildlife and cultural heritage.

Cultural tours

Cultural tours in Kahuzi Biega National Park offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the cultural heritage and traditions of the local communities surrounding the park.

The park is also surrounded by several local communities, including the Pygmy communities, who have lived in the region for centuries and have a rich cultural heritage.

Cultural tours in Kahuzi Biega National Park offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the traditional way of life, customs, and beliefs of the local communities. Visitors can participate in guided tours with experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the local culture and traditions.

The cultural tours include visits to Pygmy villages, traditional dance performances This is an opportunity to learn about local crafts and food. Visitors also learn about the challenges and opportunities facing the local communities. These make efforts to promote sustainable tourism and conservation in the region. Cultural tours in Kahuzi Biega National Park provide a unique opportunity to connect with the local communities.

Note: Visitors should respect the local culture and customs. During the cultural tours, follow the rules and regulations of the park. Cultural tours can be combined with other activities such as gorilla trekking, bird watching, and hiking tours to provide a comprehensive and enriching experience.

How safe is Kahuzi Biega national park?

Kahuzi Biega National Park has faced security challenges due to the political instability and armed conflict in the region. However, the park and the surrounding areas have seen improvements in recent years. Efforts have been made to ensure the safety of visitors.

This is what you need to know about the safety of Kahuzi Biega National Park:

• The park is located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• The park management, local communities, and government agencies have taken steps to improve security.
• Visitors are advised to check the security situation in the region before planning a visit. They also ought to use reputable tour operators who are experienced in operating in the region.
• Visitors should follow the rules and regulations of the park and local authorities, including respecting the park’s wildlife and environment.
• The park management and local communities have worked together to promote sustainable tourism and conservation. This has contributed to the improvement of the security situation.
• The park has a team of experienced rangers who are trained to ensure the safety of visitors. They  also protect the park’s wildlife and environment.
• Visitors are required to undergo a health check before entering the park. This is meant to prevent the transmission of diseases to the park’s wildlife.
• Visitors should avoid traveling at night and should be cautious when traveling outside the park.

Despite the security challenges, Kahuzi Biega National Park remains a unique and valuable destination for nature. Wildlife enthusiasts, and visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience by following the guidelines and using reputable tour operators.

How to access Kahuzi Biega national park

By air: The closest airport to the Park is Kavumu Airport, which is located in Bukavu. Visitors can fly to Kavumu Airport from Kinshasa or other major cities in the region. From Kavumu Airport, visitors can take a taxi or arrange with a tour operator for transportation to the park.

By road: Visitors can also access Kahuzi Biega National Park by road from Bukavu or other nearby towns. The road to the park is usually in good condition during the dry season. However, it can be challenging during the rainy season. Through Rwanda, one can access the park.

By boat: Visitors can take a boat from Bukavu to Tshivanga, which is located near the park’s entrance. The boat ride takes about 2-3 hours and offers scenic views of Lake Kivu.

Accommodation in Kahuzi Biega national park

The Park offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from basic campsites to comfortable lodges. Here are the accommodation options in Kahuzi Biega National Park:

Tchegera Island Camp

Tchegera Island Camp is located on a small island in Lake Kivu, near Bukavu. The camp offers comfortable tented accommodations, each with a private bathroom and a view of the lake.

Kahuzi Biega Lodge

Kahuzi Biega Lodge is located near the park’s entrance. It offers comfortable accommodations in chalets, each with a private bathroom and a view of the forest.

Lwiro Primates

Lwiro Primates is a research and conservation center that offers basic accommodation in dormitories and tents. The center is located near the park and offers an opportunity to learn about the park’s wildlife and conservation efforts.

Campsites

The park offers several campsites for visitors who prefer to camp in the park. The campsites offer basic facilities such as toilets and showers.

Bukavu Hotels

Visitors can also stay in hotels in Bukavu, which is the closest city to the park. Bukavu offers a range of accommodation options, including budget guesthouses and luxury hotels.

Note: Visitors should book their accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to avoid disappointment. The accommodation options in Kahuzi Biega National Park provide visitors with a comfortable. A convenient base to explore the park’s natural beauty and wildlife is also available.

In conclusion, therefore, Kahuzi Biega National Park is a unique and valuable destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including endangered species such as the eastern lowland gorilla. It offers a range of activities, including gorilla trekking, bird watching, hiking tours, and cultural tours. Visitors can access the park by air, road, or boat. They can choose from a variety of accommodation options, ranging from basic campsites to comfortable lodges. Efforts have been made to improve the security challenges  the park has faced in the past. Visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience by following the guidelines and using reputable tour operators.

A visit to Kahuzi Biega National Park provides an opportunity to connect with nature. They get to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the park’s wildlife and landscapes. Learn about the cultural heritage and traditions of the local communities.