As a result, Gorilla safaris in Congo are designed to provide our visitors with a less expensive but still unique opportunity to go gorilla trekking in Dr. Congo’s great Virunga National Park. Virunga is home to eight habituated gorilla families: Kabirizi, Humba, Mapuwa, Lulengo, Rugendo, Nyakamwe, Munyaga, and Bageni.

When is the best time to go Gorilla Trekking in DR Congo?

Gorilla trekking safaris in Congo are available all year. The Virunga National Park has a tropical climate, but the best time to visit Congo for gorilla trekking tours is from May to September, during the dry season. The driest month is July, followed by August and June. Temperatures also fall slightly during those months. From December to February, there is also a shorter dry period. The wet season in the Virunga National Park occurs in November, which is by far the wettest month of the year. This may not be the best time to visit Congo for gorilla trekking safaris and tours. However, if you travel between October and November or March and May, you may be able to get unmatchable deals from lodging properties due to low season and discounted gorilla permits.

Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park is located in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This reserve lies in the Virunga volcano ranges which extend into Rwanda (Volcanoes national park) and Uganda (Mgahinga gorilla national park). Virunga was established in 1925 and was one of Africa’s first protected areas. Over 300 mountain gorillas live in Virunga National Park, mostly in the park’s southern areas. The Congolese National Park Authorities and the Institute Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature manage Virunga National Park (ICCN)

Gorilla trekking tours and safaris in Congo are once-in-a-lifetime experiences, made possible by the presence of these primates in Virunga National Park. These primates are charming, intelligent, smart, and friendly to interact with. All treks in the Park begin at the Bukima Patrol post in Congo and last between 1 and 3 hours.

Trekking Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Congo.

The only national park in Congo where visitors can trek the infamous eastern lowland gorillas in their natural habitat is Kahuzi-Biega national park. It also has the largest population of eastern lowland gorillas, with approximately 250 individuals. The species, also known as Grauer’s gorilla, is the largest of four gorilla subspecies, which include Mountain gorillas, Western lowland gorillas, Eastern lowland gorillas, and cross river gorillas.

Their primary foods include fruit, bamboo shoots, and other herbaceous materials. The majority of the lowland gorillas in the park have been habituated, which means they are quite at ease in the presence of humans.

A gorilla permit for eastern lowland gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega national park costs USD 400 per person. Trekking usually starts at 7 a.m. with a briefing. Trekkers are then divided into groups of no more than eight people.

Trekking eastern lowland gorillas in the park can take 4 to 6 hours or more, depending on the gorillas’ location in the forest. Eastern lowland gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega can take even longer hours, especially if the gorillas have moved deep into the forest in search of food. This may make trekking difficult for visitors, especially if those who are not in peak physical and mental condition.

What is the cost of Gorilla Trekking in the DR Congo?

The cost of seeing mountain gorillas in DR Congo varies depending on the level of accommodation and mode of transportation used. Nonetheless, the gorilla trekking permit in Virunga National Park is currently $400. However, we arrange all-inclusive gorilla tour packages to the Democratic Republic of Congo for all visitors with no hidden costs based on your travel budget and time. Congo gorilla trekking safaris from Entebbe/Kampala may require at least four days, with an overnight stay in either Kabale or Kisoro before driving to and crossing into Congo’s Virunga National Park.

Virunga National Park in Congo provides both standard and discounted gorilla permits for mountain gorilla trekking. Permits are $400 per person during the high season or peak season of December, January, February, June, July, August, September, and early October. Due to high demand from tourists, visitors looking for gorilla safari experiences during those months are advised to book their permits before their gorilla trekking safari.

Gorilla trekking permits in Congo Virunga National Park are available for $200 per person during the low season; in March, April, May, November, and early December.

The national park is composed of the Virunga massif in the Eastern side as a result of tectonic forces which comprises of 8 volcanic mountains,7 of which are with in the Virunga national park. They include; Karisimbi measuring 4,507m above the sea level, Mikeno 4437, Muhabura 4,127, Bisoke 3711, Sabinyo 3671, Gahinga 3470, Nyirangongo 3470 and Nyamuragira being the smallest measuring 3058m above the sea level.

Out of these 8 volcanoes, only 2  are active volcanoes which include Mount Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira. Its believed that Nyamuragira is rich in massive potassium shield and its erupts roughly after every 2 years making it the Africa’s and worlds most active volcano. Nyirangongo is also active and often erupts and the last eruption happened in May 2021 producing large magma flows. These volcanoes shape the national parks habitat composed of forests, bamboos, swamps, open savannah and volcanic peaks.

Virunga national park is a home to over 3000 fauna and flora recorded species and over 300 bird species endemic to the Albertine Rift. Major Mammals include; elephants, lions, buffaloes, okapis, antelopes, warthogs, pelican.it also hosts other primate species and the famous ones are; mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, olive baboons, and many different monkey species including blue monkey, golden monkey, central African red colobus, grey checked mangabeys among others

Virunga national park as a UNESCO World heritage site;

Virunga National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it hosts the continent’s most biologically diverse protected area comprising of the spectacular massifs of Virunga mountains with the most 2 volcanic mountains in Africa, and the Rwenzori ranges. This gives the Virungas with exceptional biodiversity with the endemic bird species and the endangered mountain gorillas a few remaining in the world. It falls under the governance of ICCN (Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature) responsible for the conservation of national parks in DRC Congo. Also Virunga Charity Foundation founded in 2005 works together ICCN to support the conservation of the national park and also work with the neighbouring communities to help them get benefits from the national park. Congo has faced a lot of instabilities that has threatened the existence of this park with a lot of poaching. Instabilities have also affected tourism activities in this area. However, the park currently is heavily guarded with over 689 Rangers to ensure the safety of tourists going into the park and ensure conservation and protection of the existing fauna and wildlife

Major tourist attractions

Gorilla trekking;

You will have an opportunity to trek the endangered few remaining gorillas in the world in Virunga national park. There are about 8 fully habituated gorillas that facilitate gorilla tracking. They include; Kabirizi, Humba, Mapuwa, Lulengo, Rugendo, Munyaga, Bageni and Nyakamwe. The cost is $400 per day and can be booked directly with the Virunga national park or through your reliable tour operator. Gorilla tracking takes between 2 to 6 hours depending on the movement of the gorilla family you are tracking. Your guides will brief you before the activity on the dos and don’ts regarding gorilla trekking.

Birding;

Virunga national park hosts over 300 birds some are endemic and other non endemic which offer a good working experience to the bird lovers. Some of the existing birds include the following; Rwenzori turaco, Rwenzori batis,Kivu ground thrush, red throated alethe,mountain masked apalis,collared apalis,Archer’s ground robin, Rwenzori batis, thrush, dusky crimson-wing, red faced woodland warbler, blue headed sun bird, African olive pigeon, African hobby, African olive pigeon, red eyed dove among many other species.

Chimpanzee trekking;

Virunga national park is a home to chimpanzees commonly found in Rumagambo sector in Mahura forest. You can book directly with the Virunga national park or through your reliable tour operator. You will have a chance to see other species of primates including olive baboons, white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, red tailed monkeys among others.

Volcano climbing.

Volcanoes national park is composed of the Virunga massif that has 8 volcanoes, and 7 of them found in this national park. Only 2 out of 7 are active volcanoes that roughly erupt every after 2 years. The 2 active volcanoes are Nyirangongo which last erupted in May 2021 creating large larva fluids flowing and then Nyamuragira. You will embark on mountain climbing to one of the volcanoes or more than one depending on your fitness. These volcanoes will give you with spectacular beautiful scenery which you will enjoy while on your hike. Sabinyo peak stands with the boundaries of 3 countries and standing on its peak will give you an opportunity to be in 3 countries on Rwanda, Congo and Uganda at the same time.

Guided Nature walk

You can embark on guided nature walk to explore the park on foot which takes between 2 to 3 hours. Virunga national park gives spectacular views with its beautiful scenery with its Virunga massif,wetlands,grasslands.The park is composed of over 2,077 plant species which include; 264 tree species and 230 plants that are endemic to the Albertine Rift.

Accommodation in the park

Virunga National Park offers a wide range of accommodation ranging from budget, midrange to luxury that suit the interests of all the market. Some of them include; Mikeno Lodge, Lulimbi tented camp, Kibumba tented camp, Mt. Nyiragongo Summit Shelters and Bukima tented Camp.

Access to Virunga National Park.

The park is located in the eastern part of DRC making travel by road challenging. When it rains, access becomes very difficult even in the few existing roads. As such, flying to Kigali International Airport and then connect by road through Gisenyi town would be the best option. It takes about 2 hours from Gisenyi to Bukima where the park headquarters are located. Travelers through Uganda would cross to DR Congo through Bunagana boarder post in Kisoro town and it takes about 1 hour to reach Bukima headquarters.

Mountains that make up the Virunga massif.

Karisimbi Mountain.

Mount Karisimbi is the highest and the most scenic volcano in the Virunga mountain network. The name is derived from a local Kinyarwanda word “Amasimbi” meaning snow; which can be only found during the dry months of June to September. It is a dormant stratovolcano, lying at the border between Rwanda and the democratic republic of Congo. It towers at approximately 4,507 meters, part of the Albertine rift at the western flank of the East African Rift. Surrounding Mount. Karisimbi are; Mount. Mikeno at the north, Nyiragongo to the west and Bisoke to the west.

Mount. Karisimbi also ranks as the 11^th highest mountain in the continent of Africa. The last Eruption happened in about 8050 BC. Situated in the area between Mount Karisimbi and Bisoke is Karisoke Research Centre, established by the late primate researcher; Dian Fossey who sacrificed her entire life for the sake of protecting and habituating gorillas.

Mount. Mikeno.

Mount Mikeno the second highest volcanic mountain in the Virunga chain; at 4,437, and 13^th highest in the continent of Africa, seating at the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is side by side with mount. Nyamuragira, Mount Bisoke, Nyiragongo, and Mount Karisimbi. The name Mikeno in a local dialect means “poor”, due to its harsh slopes which never favored the local population. Gorillas can be found at its slopes, with the trekking commencing at the Bukima petrol station.

Mount. Muhabura.

Spanning across the Republic of Rwanda and Uganda; this is the third highest mountain of the eight major mountains in Virunga massif. It towers 4,127 meters above sea level, at the western flank of the East African Rift. The largest portion of the mountain is at Mgahinga national park, whereas the other at Volcanoes in Rwanda. The name was derived from a local Kinyarwanda word meaning “The Guide”.

Mount. Bisoke.

Last erupted in 1957, mountain Bisoke counts as the fourth highest summit of the Virunga ranges. Mount Bisoke is a dormant volcano, located at the western side of the East African Rift and sprawling through the East African Rift; about 35 km northeast of Goma town and close to Lake Kivu.

Mount. Sabyinyo.

Mount Sabyinyo name’s translates to a “Tooth” in local Kifumbira dialect “iryinyo”. It is the oldest mountain range northeast of Lake Kivu in Rwanda and west of Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda. The peak is 3,669 meters above sea level and shared by Rwanda and the democratic republic of Congo. A portion of the Mountain can be found in Volcanoes national park in Rwanda; Virunga national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga national park in Uganda.

Mount. Gahinga.

This is an extinct mountain on the border between Rwanda and Congo; right between Sabyinyo and Muhabura mountains. Locals call it Mountain Rufumbira, meaning “small pile of stones”. The park has a tiny swampy caldera at 180 meters wide. The mountain rises at 3,473 meters above sea level.

Mount. Nyiragongo.

Regarded by many as “General Nyiragongo” the Nyiragongo mountain is by far one of the most renowned Mountains in the Virunga chain. It is one of the most active mountains in the world. The summit has a mark of a blazing lava lake, of which reaching it needs about 5-6 hours. The mountain rises at 3470, about 20 meters north of Goma town.

Mount. Nyamuragira.

The smallest of all the 8 major mountains at Virunga chain of Mountains; Mount Nyamuragira is located about 25kilometres north of Lake Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo and regarded as the most active mountain in Africa, with the most recent eruption occurring in April 2018. No offense in calling it Mount. Nyamuragira. The name means “herd of cows” derived from a verb; Kurangira Ngavu from Kifuru and Kishi languages.

Other attractions in the Virunga conservation area.

A true unique primate hub in the world. The endangered mountain gorillas are the prime attractions at the heart of the vast Virunga Chain of mountains. They live at the foothills, engulfed by lush forest cover with which the weather suits them. Only here do you find about 1060 Mountain Gorillas globally. The apes, which are our relatives with over 95% human DNA can be tracked in the different national parks spread in different countries; Virunga national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Volcanoes national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Bwindi impenetrable and Mgahinga national park on the Republic of Rwanda.

Other attractions include the Golden monkeys only found in Volcanoes and Mgahinga national parks in Rwanda, Birds, forest mammals, chimpanzees; though not open for trekking, and the Local Batwa communities residing outside the park.

Tourist activities in the park include among others; Gorilla trekking, Birdwatching, cave exploration, mountain hiking, guided nature walk, Golden monkey trekking and Cultural adventures.

It is now satisfactory that you know what it means to mention the word; Virunga chain of mountains; a chain with unique attractions, ranging from endangered mountain gorillas, bamboo trees and the cheerful golden monkeys.

Most significantly, it is a good idea that you listen to your park guide’s piece of advice while on a trek to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Each park ranger guide is equipped with a gun and the purpose is primarily to ensure visitors are safeguarded but this doesn’t mean that a mountain gorilla should be shot dead. Park ranger guides are well-trained on how to handle such matters as to when a gorilla charges that is why listening to what you tell you is very important.

It is Uganda, Rwanda and Congo’s obligation to ensure mountain gorillas are protected from any harm. For a long time that we have been organizing Uganda gorilla trekking safaris or Rwanda gorilla holiday safaris, such cases related to a gorilla charging against clients hasn’t been recorded.

All gorilla trekking adventures in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo are only done in already fully habituated gorilla family groups. Habituated groups underwent a process in which they were initiated to get used to human presence also popularly known as habituation. This takes about 2 or less years and other families even take less than the period planned for them to undergo habituated and they can be ready for trekking.

How gorillas charge?

There are many ways gorillas can show that they have charged against you. They can thump their chest several times, grunt loudly and / or release a strong smell. Gorillas have loud voices and when they charge, you can easily notice them throw vegetation at you. Once you notice such signs, then know that they are angry at you.

WHAT YOU CAN DO WHEN GORILLAS CHARGE AGAINST YOU?

Rarely do gorillas charge and the ones that charge are regarded as fake. Usually, they charge in order to give their group members time to locate to safer areas. In case the oppression continues, they can also attack with no fear. Therefore, here are some of the ways you can survive attack from gorillas or what you can do in case they charge.

Study how they behave.

A charged gorilla can shout loudly and can go ahead to thump its chest, the ground and throw vegetation at you then release a strong smell. However, when they get close to you with none of the above signs then they just want to socialize with you.

Look the opposite direction.

Even your park guide will remind you that once you come across a charged gorilla, never ever attempt to look directly to its eyes. You can choose to lower your head down and not have direct/straight eye contact which is a sign of challenging them. If you lower your head down, it is a sign that you have submitted to them. Note, mountain gorillas are stronger than humans-never try to challenge them to prove it.

Keep calm.

At that moment, it is of no doubt that you can be filled with fear. But don’t over react or be tempted to scream at a gorilla otherwise you will be worsening the situation at hand. Be humble, calm down and quiet.

Groom its hand.

In case a gorilla gets hold of your hand, begin to groom it. In the process, it can relax more and you can be in position to remove your hands.

Walk away but steadily.

Running away puts you at a higher risk of being attacked and the best is to simply walkaway one step at a time but without making any noise. In the process, you would have created a distance between you and the gorillas.

Observe all your guide’s instructions for safety.

Although you will be briefed on the same dos and don’ts, the park guide upon leading you through the jungles to look for a gorilla family will remind you of the same rules to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience.

Maintain a distance from gorillas at all times.

This is a standard rule ever trekker on gorilla trekking must observe. A distance of 8-10 meters must be kept away from gorillas once found in the wild. Don’t touch them otherwise such actions can mean to them as a threat and they can be forced to attack you in away to defend themselves.

What makes gorillas charge at you?

• Wearing brightly colored clothes-that is why it is recommended to wear those that blend with their natural habitat.
• Loud voice made by trackers/trekkers that is why you must keep your voices low.
• Sudden and unexpected movements while with gorillas.
• Meeting wild gorilla family.
• When you spend too much time with the family.
• Attempts to touch a gorilla.
• When you get close to a breastfeeding mother gorilla.
• Obstruction/surrounding a family of gorillas.
• Large number of people.

Mountain gorillas are social animals that work in groups of about thirty members per group. Every group is led by a single alpha male and an older silverback. The silverbacks trace their name from the silver stripe developed on their back as they mature. They are strong, shy and aggressive once threatened; they beat their chests angrily while grunting and roaring led by group leaders taking charge of the threat. Mothers fight around the clock to protect their babies. The groups are made up of old males (about 12 years old), younger males, juvenile females and infants. Like any other family head, the silverbacks are responsible for order, decision making, scheduling feeding trips, resting time and travels.

NOTE; Female mountain gorillas carry one or two babies at a time and can start producing at the age of ten i.e. bearing between two and six offspring in a lifetime.

MOUNTAIN GORILLAS IN UGANDA.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP and Mgahinga Gorilla NP are the two gorilla trekking spots in Uganda. Gorillas do not abide by the political rules and regulations when it comes to movement thus a number of them cross to the Congo and Rwandan side however, Bwindi remains a home to a multitude of them.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Commonly referred to as the place of darkness because of its dense treetops, Bwindi impenetrable forest is an old 128 square miles montane and lowland forest that was named UNESCO world heritage site due to its magnificent biodiversity.

Gorilla tracking in the park is carried out in Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija and Nkuringo sectors, all the areas owning about eighteen families as of December 2018. Tracking permits have to be bought before tracking through Uganda Wildlife Authority or any legal tour agents. A company of UWA guides is a sure deal whereas eight people are permitted to track at ago and must be above fifteen years. Tracking happens any time of the day depending on the direction taken by the gorillas. Annual permits can also be secured in advance.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Mgahinga gorilla national park covers three of the eight peaks of Virunga i.e. mount. Gahinga, Sabyinyo and Muhabura. Mountain Gorillas are the major attraction of this area much as there are other numerous fauna and flora. Nyakagezi is the only habituated gorilla group that can be visited by tourists in Mgahinga comprising of nine members; two female adults, one juvenile, two infants and four silverbacks.

MOUNTAIN GORILLA DESTINATIONS IN RWANDA.

Wonders appear on Rwanda’s adventure menu; over one hundred bird types and wildlife are restricted to Rwanda’s park. It is a theatre of dreams! Only 8 visitors are permitted to glance at each gorilla family per day under the guidance of tour guides who dedicate their time to respond to a number of questions.

Volcanoes N/Park.

Also known as Parc National des Volcans, the Volcanoes National Park is located in Rwanda’s northwestern region. It protects steep rain forested slopes of Virunga which are a home to rare mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The Virunga slopes offer a gigantic experience as one views the nature of almost quarter of the world’s total population of mountain gorillas.

Driving from Kigali international airport to the park takes three hours; dare not to miss the supernatural experience with the gorillas.

MOUNTAIN GORILLAS IN D.R. CONGO.

Swamps, steppes to the snowfields of Mount. Rwenzori (over 5,000m altitude), lava plains of savannah on Volcanoes slopes are just a few of blessings offered by the 790,000ha Virunga National Park. In addition to the above, 20,000 hippos and birds from Siberia spend their winter in the rivers nearby.

A good number of mammal species, birds, reptiles and amphibians contribute to the beauty of Virunga NP. No wonder, the park is considered Africa’s most bio diverse protected area having a third of world’s mountain gorillas. It also provides habitat to more than 4,000,000 people affected by conflict. AS your plan for your African adventure, you hope you are now well versed with best Places to see Gorillas in Africa

Mountain gorillas that are trekked/or visited by travelers across the four national parks first go through a process of habituation to reduce their wildness and make them used to seeing visitors from time to time. However, this doesn’t stop them from being animals thus can become protective when threatened. This is probably the reason why several guidelines were drafted by the relevant wildlife governing bodies (Uganda Wildlife Authority, Rwanda Development Board and Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature) in the three countries to protect humans and mountain gorillas alike. For this article, we shall focus on the reasons why gorillas fight each other;

Mountain gorillas live in groups or families comprising of a dominant silverback (the head or leader of the family), other subordinate silverbacks, Alpha/or adult females, black backs, juveniles and infants. The dominant silverback has the responsibility of protecting his family from intruders (external threats) and resolving in-family conflicts. When threats are detected, silverbacks start by beating their chests while groaning and stamping their feet on the ground to express strength and authority.

This also means aggressiveness and fighting, sometimes until death. They fight with their strong hands, legs and even teeth (sharp canine teeth) until penetrating the flesh of their opponents. Therefore, the following are the reasons why gorillas fight;

Gorillas fight to protect their family from intruders or external threats.

Mountain gorillas, especially dominant silverbacks usually fight when they encounter other gorilla groups or wild/unhabituated silverbacks. Each silverback of the respective groups has to fight, using teeth, hands and legs to show strength and gain confidence of respective group members. These fights cause injuries and sometimes death of opponents, and in some cases winners grab members of the losers.

To break away from their natural families/groups and start their own groups/families.

In typical gorilla groups, only the dominant silverback has the right to make decisions on where the group feeds and nests as well as the right to mate with females of the group. When other silverbacks are denied this opportunity, they resort to leaving (peacefully or after fights) to form their own groups/families. Fights usually come when the silverback planning to leave has to grab some group members to start a new group.

Fighting for mating partners.

Because only the dominant silverback has the right to mate with all the females of the group, attempts by other silverbacks to mate with the females bring about fights. In few and extraordinary cases do group leaders allow other silverbacks to mate with the females. All in all, mountain gorillas are generally gentle and peaceful animals that live harmoniously in their groups and become aggressive where need be.

Booking for gorilla safaris in the mentioned destinations will introduce you to these and more fascinating gorilla behavior.

This Unique nation; is the second-largest country in the continent of Africa in the central part, engulfed by the Central African Republic and South Sudan to the north, Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda to the east, Zambia to the south, Angola to the south-west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. You may have your honeymoon, family safari, student trip, research, photography, and wildlife safari among others, for whatever number of days, and whatever group size in this fascinating destination.

INTERESTING ACTIVITIES IN D.R. CONGO.

Gorilla trekking.

Gorillas are shy gentle apes, with over 95% human-like DNA, and characteristics. They live in a group, led by a dominant silverback whose role is to bring harmony, settle disputes, and find new territories for the family members. These are some of the most endangered and rarest creatures on earth, only found in the continent of Africa with Congo as one of the finest Gorilla wonder worlds.

Gorilla trekking is the main safari in the country, with several tourists arriving from all corners to reunite with their relatives. This begins with a pre trekking briefing early in the morning at the park headquarters, by the park rangers. It can take about 30mins to one hour for the briefing, and then up to 6 hours trekking. An extra hour is offered for familiarizing with the Apes, taking photos, and making inquiries.

Whereas other gorilla trekking destinations namely; the Republic of Uganda and Rwanda talk of only one gorilla species, Congo is unique with two species; eastern lowland gorillas at Kahuzi- Biega national park, and the mountain gorillas at Virunga national park. Virunga national park is one of the largest and oldest national parks in Africa gifted a variety of flora and fauna, mountains, and very suitable climatic conditions day and night. One difference you may appreciate between these two gorilla species is their distinct body size, fur on their body, and also how much time the lowland gorillas spends on the ground, thus a reason for picking Congo as a preferred gorilla destination.

The Cheap Gorilla trekking Permits.

Hundreds of people have a desire to encounter the Gorillas but are always turned off by the cost attached to the mountain gorilla trekking permits. However, why not visit the Congo, hosting about a quarter of the world’s mountain Gorilla population, as well as the eastern lowland Gorillas, yet offering their Gorilla trekking permits at the lowest price in comparison with the rest of the destination. With only 400USD, a foreigner can now meet face to face rare with these gorillas in their natural habitat.

Mountain Hiking.

In Congo, we don’t talk of a mere hike or a common mountain but rather one of the world’s most active mountain volcano; with an eye-catching blazing lava lake at the summit. Records suggest it has erupted about 32 times, with the most recent happening in 2002, claiming lives and destroying property.

Nonetheless, that should be a reason enough to win your heart for a trip to hike Mountain Nyirangongo, situated in the heart of Virunga national park. Ascending and descending this mountain is less hectic, requires no skills and takes only two days.

Best time to visit D.R. Congo.

D.R. Congo has one of the best climates in the world, thus no much stress on picking your travel time. But from us to you, June to October and December to March are the most suitable months. The country is safe all year round.

Visiting Congo is pocket-friendly, and exposes you to a variety of wildlife, primates, and several other attractions several countries can’t offer. Add it to your bucket list and have a memorable safari experience. As you plan your African safari, we hope we have answered the question why Visit The Democratic Republic of Congo.

However, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) listed mountain gorillas as “critically endangered” considering a number of factors that threaten to extinction. Interestingly, hope isn’t lost yet because according the current census, the population of these fragile primates began growing and their status upgraded to ‘endangered.’

Today, the new survey indicates a rise in mountain gorilla population to 1063 individuals. These rare and fragile apes range only within Uganda, Rwanda and The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Though their population is still low, the rise in their number is an indication of positive conservation efforts. The recent survey that was carried out on mountain gorilla population in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Southwestern Uganda and Sarambwe Nature Reserve in the DR Congo accounted for 459 mountain gorillas and this was an increase from the 400 as of 2011.

Another survey that was carried out from 2015 to 2016 indicated a rise in mountain gorilla population to 604 individuals within the Virunga Massif, a chain of 8 volcanoes that extend to Rwanda, Uganda and DRC. When all the results were combined, the mountain gorilla population today accounts for 1063, a remarkable increase from 680 as of 2008.

Survival of mountain gorillas in the wild has been and still being impacted by a number of factors or threats despite the gradual increase. For long, mountain gorilla population has continuously been affected by poaching, spread of human infectious diseases, habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict and others. They remain threatened to extinction despite the great news in their population rise. This article therefore provides in-depth explanation as to why mountain gorillas have been

Habitat loss.

Most people live around the remotest areas where mountain gorillas exist. Too much pressure is exerted on mountain gorilla habitat as a result of high demand for land. Areas adjacent to gorilla safari parks are densely populated and locals are forced to clear part of gorilla habitat to carry out farming activities, settlement purposes. In the long run, the habitat is lost and making them homeless hence endangering their lives.

Mountain gorillas depend much on vegetation and feed less on insects. By encroaching on their habitat which puts their lives at danger. Most local residents also keep different livestock which bring about competition on limited resources.

Poaching/illegal hunting.

For the past 2 decades, about 50 mountain gorillas were killed and poaching still continues to be a major threat to the survival of these apes. This is one reason why mountain gorillas still remain endangered. While the traps set target small mammals especially forest antelopes, mountain gorillas in most cases get trapped in the process in the set wire snares.

Others hunt for mountain gorillas to extract their body parts for them to sell to researchers and others especially infants are traded as pets.

Human infectious diseases.

Human infectious diseases have continuously impacted on the lives of mountain gorillas. Their genetic DNA is 98% same to that of humans and this makes them susceptible to human infectious diseases. Like other creatures, mountain gorillas have their own diseases that are suffering from.

Addition of human infectious diseases like cold, flu puts them at higher risk. Other threats mountain gorillas still face that have made them endangered include war and instability, oil and gas exploration.

Nyamuragira Volcano is 25kms North of Lake Kivu and stands at elevation of up-to 3063m. This volcano mountain lies just near Goma city of Congo in the Kivu Province, 13kms North of Mt. Nyiragongo. It is Africa’s most active volcano known to erupt at least after every 2 years emitting a large fluid lava flow.

Mount Nyamuragira is a vast high-potassium basaltic shield volcano lying 25kms North of Lake Kivu along the East African Rift Valley, Northwest of Nyiragongo. It spreads to cover an area of 1500sq.kms in the East African rift with volume of 500 cubic kilometers. The broad shield volcano features a summit caldera, 2kms wide and walls rising up to over 100m high. It is a typical shield volcano that has had eruptions inside the summit caldera and from the extensive rift zones along its flanks, resulting into several fissures and cinder cones.

2011 to 2012; Kimanura flank eruption.

Mount Nyamuragira recorded a new flank eruption on 6^th November 2011 where a series of E-W aligned fissures occurred 10kms east of the caldera’s summit. The eruption began with massive ground fracturing and tall lava fountains from most vents which built themselves faster on the western Kimanura cone complex. Its lava flows moved several kilometers to the North, burning a bigger area of forest cover though it didn’t cause any damage on the infrastructure.

Tall fountaining took about one week and traveled to intense spattering from active lava lake filled vents and strombolian explosions. Considering the wind direction, places around the vents got about 1m of lapilli and scoria fallout. A 2^nd cluster of vents opened about 1km down slopes along the same fissure system in the early January and resulted into lava fountains. The similar sized complex of vents also built up best described as Kimanura vent complex and the western complex lava fountaining merged into a form of intense spattering from boiling lava lake activity. This action continued to move to the north and on 2^nd February, the eruption kept on occurring. This is considerably one of the largest eruptions to occur in the last 100 years.

Mt. Nyamuragira can take hikers a day and each group is led by an experienced an armed guide. It is 3-4 hours’ trek to the summits of this volcano and the preferred accommodation is camping. To enjoy the best of Nyamuragira tour, you need a rain jacket, waterproof hiking boots, sun screen, walking stick, camera, snacks, bottled water, and insect repellents.

Best time to climb.

The best time to hike Mount Nyamuragira Volcano is during the drier months; January, July and August. But note, the weather conditions do fluctuate because it can rain at any time of the day or year.

Getting there.

Nyamuragira is found in eastern Congo, near Virunga National Park, 2 hours’ drive from Kigali to Goma Town of Congo. From Goma, proceed North of Lake Kivu to begin your Nyamuragira adventure.

This Mountain’s name – Mikeno literally means “poor”, attributed to its harsh slopes that inhibit human settlement but is known for sheltering the endangered mountain gorillas that occupy its lush and densely forested slopes. Virunga National Park, where this Mountain is found was gazetted in 1925 making it one of the oldest Protected Areas in Africa and presently extends for over 7,800 square kilometers.

Hiking/Climbing Mount. Mikeno.

Much as majority of hikes within Virunga National Park are conducted for Mount Nyiragongo, hiking expeditions for Mount Mikeno reward visitors with remarkable views of other Virunga Mountains and other mind-boggling parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The first person to have conquered the slopes of Mount. Mikeno was W.J Wanshoff Van Meesch in 1932. Others were Lewis Mudge, Cai Tjeenk and Pierre Peron who climbed the Mountain for the first time in 28 years and first reached the five unreal summits before getting to the real summit. Hiking trips usually begin from Kigali and involve driving for 3-4 hours to the mountain, with border crossing at Gisenyi border point.

Actual hikes begin with briefing at Bukima Ranger Post then begin slowly while encountering several wildlife and bird species. During your hike, you will come across the gravesite of Carl Akeley, a nature photographer and conservationist that allegedly died of fever in 1926. It takes 4 hours to get to this Gravesite at Kabara Campsite and continue for another 4 hours to reach the peak of this Mountain.

Because this mountain is one of the toughest-to-hike Volcanoes, physical fitness is required and hiring a porter is also advised. However, views of verdant coffee plantations, breathtaking waterfalls and villages should be expected by hikers. Hiking gears can be obtained from Mikeno Lodge although hikers can come along with their own gear

Permits for hiking Mount Mikeno can be obtained from Grande barrier border post at Goma Town of the Rwanda-Congo border.

Best time to hike Mount. Mikeno.

The perfect time of hiking Mount Mikeno is the dry season-December to February as well as June to September when hiking trails are drier (not muddy and slippery) thus making them less challenging. However, if the idea of being wet and more challenging delights you, then book for the hike during the rainy/wet season.

What to Park?

If you are planning to hike Mt Mikeno, you should pack a strong pair of hiking boots, safari pants, gardening gloves, warm sweater, rain jacket, sunglasses, backpack, energy-giving snacks, insect repellant, hat, first-aid kit and enough drinking water. Walking stick and hiring porters ease your hike and can be got from Bukima Ranger post during briefing.

Where to stay?

There are a number of accommodation choices for visitors planning to hike Mount Mikeno and these include Tchegera Island Tented Camp, Mikeno Lodge, Lake Kivu Lodge, Lulimbi Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Lodge and Bukima Tented Camp among others.

How to get there?

Kigali International Airport in Rwanda is the main gateway to D.R. Congo where visitors first have to fly-in then continue by road via Goma border point near Gisenyi. This journey lasts 3-4 hours.