Gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) offers a thrilling and less crowded alternative to its neighbors, Rwanda and Uganda. The DRC is home to some of the most pristine and remote habitats for both mountain gorillas and eastern lowland gorillas, making it a top destination for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic wildlife experience.
Embark on a thrilling 2 Days Mountain Gorilla Trek in Virunga National Park adventure, one of Africa’s oldest and most biologically diverse protected areas. Located in eastern DR Congo near the Rwandan border, Virunga is world-renowned for its endangered mountain gorillas and dramatic volcanic landscapes. This short yet immersive itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking […]
If you are looking for an unforgettable and affordable gorilla trekking adventure, DR Congo stands out as the ultimate destination. Not only does it offer the cheapest gorilla permits in Africa — ranging from $400 to $500 — but it is also the only country where you can experience both Mountain Gorillas and the rare Eastern Lowland Gorillas in their natural habitats.
In Virunga National Park, trekkers encounter Mountain Gorillas in dramatic volcanic landscapes, often accompanied by armed rangers for added safety. Meanwhile, Kahuzi-Biega National Park near Bukavu offers a unique opportunity to trek the larger, more terrestrial Lowland Gorillas — a primate species found nowhere else on Earth.
Unlike Uganda and Rwanda, gorilla trekking in DR Congo is far less crowded, giving visitors a more authentic, raw, and intimate wildlife experience. Trails are wilder, and the feeling of being deep in untamed Africa is unmatched.
For thrill-seekers, Nyiragongo Volcano hikes — a climb to one of the world’s most active lava lakes — can be added to your itinerary when security permits, making Congo a diverse safari destination beyond gorillas.
Best of all, cross-border access from Rwanda is quick and easy, with smooth road transfers from Kigali to Goma or Bukavu, enabling you to fly into Rwanda and trek gorillas in Congo the very next day.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time safari-goer, gorilla trekking in DR Congo delivers one of Africa’s most extraordinary and affordable primate encounters.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is the only place in the world where you can trek both Mountain Gorillas and Eastern Lowland Gorillas — two subspecies, two national parks, one extraordinary journey. Whether you choose the legendary landscapes of Virunga National Park or the primal rainforest of Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Congo offers unmatched gorilla encounters away from the crowds and high prices of Rwanda and Uganda.
Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in eastern DR Congo near the Rwandan border. It is home to several habituated Mountain Gorilla families, offering intimate gorilla trekking experiences in a dramatically scenic, volcanic setting.
Permit Price: $400 USD (subject to park reopening)
Habitat: Rugged forest terrain, volcano backdrops
Base Town: Goma (easy access from Kigali)
Bonus Activity: Combine with a Nyiragongo Volcano hike (when open)
Unique Feature: Trekking groups are small, and sightings are near-guaranteed
Safety: Guided by highly trained rangers and armed escorts for protection
Despite temporary closures due to regional instability, Virunga remains a bucket-list destination for adventurous travelers seeking raw, untouched wilderness and authentic Mountain Gorilla trekking in Congo.
Located near Bukavu on the western shores of Lake Kivu, Kahuzi-Biega National Park is the only protected area in Africa where you can see Eastern Lowland Gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri). These massive, gentle giants live in the dense lowland rainforests of this remote UNESCO-listed park.
Permit Price: $400 USD
Gorilla Species: Eastern Lowland Gorillas – larger and more terrestrial than mountain gorillas
Base Town: Bukavu (accessible via Rwanda’s Rusizi border)
Difficulty Level: Easier treks, flatter terrain — suitable for families and older travelers
Group Size: Small, private encounters with expert trackers
Best For: Wildlife photographers, primate enthusiasts, and off-the-beaten-path explorers
Unlike anywhere else in East Africa, Kahuzi-Biega offers a rare chance to observe gorillas in lush lowland rainforest without the high costs or crowds. It’s the ideal destination for those seeking a less commercialized, highly personal wildlife experience.
For Mountain Gorilla lovers and volcano adventurers: choose Virunga
For rare species seekers and gentler treks: go for Kahuzi-Biega
Explore both parks with Jewel Gorilla Safaris — your trusted expert in affordable and private gorilla trekking tours in DR Congo.
The best time for gorilla trekking in the DRC aligns with the dry seasons, which are generally from June to September and December to February. These months offer better trekking conditions with less mud and rain, making the trails more accessible and the wildlife easier to spot.
Gorilla trekking permits in the DRC are more affordable compared to Rwanda, costing approximately $400 to $450 per person for mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park.
Permits for eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park are also required, with limited groups available, so booking at least five months in advance is recommended due to limited availability and to ensure conservation efforts are supported.
Permits grant trekkers the opportunity to spend one hour with the gorillas once they are located, under the supervision of expert guides and rangers
Gorilla trekking in Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega usually starts early in the morning with a briefing around 7:00 AM.
The trekking duration varies widely depending on gorilla location and terrain but generally lasts between 2 to 8 hours, followed by a one-hour close encounter with the gorillas.
Trekkers should plan for at least 2 to 3 days in the region to accommodate travel, briefings, and the actual trekking experience.
At Jewel Gorilla Safaris, we believe in full transparency and seamless safari planning. Our Congo gorilla trekking tours are thoughtfully designed to include everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable experience — with no hidden costs.
Here’s what’s typically included in your Congo gorilla safari package:
Your tour includes the official Congo gorilla permit (either Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega), which allows you to trek and spend one precious hour observing a habituated gorilla family. These permits are $400 to $500, significantly lower than Rwanda or Uganda.
Enjoy carefully selected midrange or budget lodges near Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega, based on your preferences. All lodges offer ensuite rooms, meals, and safe locations near park entry points.
We provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner during your safari (vegetarian and special diets available on request). Packed lunches are included on trek days.
Travel in a private 4×4 Land Cruiser or safari van with a professional English-speaking driver-guide. Vehicles are equipped for rough terrain and include fuel and park entry logistics.
We assist with Congo tourist visas, Rwanda transit visas (if arriving from Kigali), and border logistics at Goma or Bukavu — no stress, just smooth travel.
Porter services for carrying bags during the trek
Extra night stays in Goma, Bukavu, or Kigali
Add-on safaris to Nyungwe, Volcanoes Park, or Queen Elizabeth NP (on request)
Your comfort, safety, and satisfaction are our priority. All Congo gorilla tours are customizable to match your budget, travel style, and timing — from solo adventurers to family groups.
Safety is a top priority when traveling in Eastern DR Congo, especially for gorilla trekking tours. At Jewel Gorilla Safaris, we are committed to your well-being and work closely with local authorities, park rangers, and border officials to ensure smooth, secure experiences in both Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Parks.
Every gorilla trek is conducted under the protection of armed, trained park rangers. Whether you’re hiking through Virunga’s volcanoes or the lowland jungles of Kahuzi-Biega, your safety is supported by well-coordinated teams from ICCN (Congolese Wildlife Authority).
As of 2025, Virunga National Park’s tourism operations are temporarily suspended due to regional security concerns. We closely monitor the situation and will resume treks in Virunga as soon as it’s officially open and deemed safe by authorities. In the meantime, Kahuzi-Biega National Park remains fully operational and safe for gorilla trekking.
The most popular and secure entry to DR Congo is via Rwanda. Whether you cross at Goma (for Virunga) or Bukavu (for Kahuzi-Biega), we handle all logistics — from visa arrangements to border pickup, passport stamping, and vehicle transfers. Most travelers fly into Kigali International Airport, making it a seamless journey.
With years of experience guiding travelers across Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo, our team at
is well-equipped to navigate regional dynamics, coordinate last-minute changes, and handle all aspects of travel — even in remote areas. We stay updated on travel advisories, permit policies, and ranger-led protocols to ensure a safe and successful gorilla trekking adventure.
Important: We always provide updated travel information before your trip and offer flexible itineraries in case of changes in park access.
| Feature | Budget Gorilla Trekking | Luxury Gorilla Trekking |
|---|---|---|
| Gorilla Permit | Included – $400 to $500 | Included – with concierge processing |
| Accommodation | Simple lodges or guesthouses near parks | Boutique or lakeside lodges with full service |
| Meals | Full board (basic options) | Full board with gourmet options and dietary customization |
| Transport | Shared or standard 4×4 vehicle | Private 4×4 Land Cruiser with expert guide |
| Extras | Porters optional, basic assistance | Dedicated support, VIP service, guided border crossings |
| Ideal For | Backpackers, solo travelers, students | Couples, families, VIPs, photographers |
Whether you’re a backpacker on a shoestring or a high-end traveler seeking exclusivity, Congo offers both budget-friendly and luxury gorilla trekking options — all with the same awe-inspiring encounter with endangered gorillas.
Congo is arguably the most affordable destination in Africa to see gorillas. With permits costing just $400–$500, compared to $800 in Uganda and $1,500 in Rwanda, it’s ideal for travelers on a tight budget.
Affordable Lodging: Stay at comfortable guesthouses or eco-lodges in Goma or Bukavu, offering clean rooms and local hospitality
Small-Group Treks: Join a small group to reduce vehicle and guide costs
Porters Optional: Keep it lean — use a porter only if needed
Best For: Solo travelers, students, backpackers, and adventurers looking for a raw experience
This style of travel still provides the same gorilla experience — with the bonus of smaller crowds and wilder trails.
For those wanting more comfort, Congo now offers elevated safari options:
Upgraded Accommodation: Boutique lakeside lodges near Bukavu or upscale properties in Rwanda before/after your trek
Private Vehicles & Guides: Enjoy a fully customized experience, with professional guides and flexibility
Helicopter or fly-in add-ons (via Rwanda)
Extra activities: Cultural visits, photography treks, or overnight volcano excursions
Luxury treks are ideal for families, photographers, couples, or VIPs who want privacy, comfort, and support from arrival to departure.
Both options lead to the same life-changing moment — standing face-to-face with a wild gorilla in the forests of Congo. Whether you’re looking to save money or savor comfort, our team will tailor the perfect experience for you.
Still unsure? Request a Free Quote and we’ll customize your trip based on your budget and travel style.
Security concerns have occasionally affected access to Virunga National Park, with some areas temporarily closed due to conflict. However, Kahuzi-Biega remains open and safe for tourists.
The trek is physically demanding, often through dense forest and challenging terrain, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
The DRC offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience with fewer tourists, making it ideal for travelers seeking solitude and adventure while contributing to vital conservation and community projects
Yes — when done with a licensed operator and in coordination with park rangers, gorilla trekking in Congo is safe. All treks are escorted by armed rangers from ICCN, and tourism areas like Kahuzi-Biega are considered secure and stable. We monitor all park updates and travel advisories closely and only operate when conditions are favorable.
Absolutely. Congo offers the cheapest gorilla permits in Africa, ranging from $400 to $500 — compared to $800 in Uganda and $1,500 in Rwanda. It’s the best destination for travelers seeking budget gorilla trekking without sacrificing the experience.
Yes. Most travelers fly into Kigali International Airport and transfer by road to Goma (for Virunga) or Bukavu (for Kahuzi-Biega). The journey takes 4–6 hours, and our team provides full border assistance and visa coordination.
Virunga National Park offers treks to mountain gorillas in a dramatic volcanic setting.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park is home to the larger eastern lowland gorillas, only found in Congo.
If Virunga is closed, we operate tours exclusively to Kahuzi-Biega, which remains open and safe.
The trek’s difficulty varies depending on where the gorilla family is located. In Kahuzi-Biega, hikes can take 2–4 hours through dense forest. A reasonable level of fitness is helpful, and porters are available to assist with bags. We brief all clients beforehand and match treks to their ability.
Yes. Depending on safety conditions, you can add:
Nyiragongo Volcano hikes
Nature walks
Cultural visits near Bukavu
Cross-border extensions to Rwanda or Uganda
We’ll help you plan a seamless and enriching itinerary.
Our Congo gorilla tours typically include:
Gorilla permit
Accommodation
Meals
Transport with a guide
Border and visa assistance
Optional porter services
