Cost of lowland gorilla trekking in Congo: How much does it cost to see lowland gorillas in Congo is one of the frequently asked questions we get from our clients. That is why we have decided to write an article about the cost of lowland gorilla trekking in Congo. Lowland activity is done in Kahuzi Biega National Park. This park is located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The cost of the lowland gorilla trekking permit is 400 USD for foreign nonresidents in the high season, 200 USD for low seasons, 250 USD for foreign residents, and 25 USD for Congolese residents. Please note that the above prices do not include accommodation and transport. For a comprehensive price reach out to our travel experts and plan accordingly.
What is included in the lowland gorilla trekking permit?
While on a low-land gorilla safari, the gorilla permit that allows travelers to see the low-land gorillas includes the following;
- Park entrance fees
- Guide fee
- Conservation fees
- Community fee that is used to develop the surrounding communities.
Gorilla permit excludes the following
- Accommodation
- Transportation
- Tips
- Meals.
How to purchase a low-land gorilla trekking permit?
Travelers planning a land gorilla trekking safari are supposed to acquire a permit. To get this permit, travelers are supposed to use licensed tour operators like Native Africa Tours. After selecting a tour operator to handle your trip, send them an inquiry. They will design an itinerary that involves gorilla trekking in Congo. Confirm dates and send your travel documents like your passport. You will be required to make payment and your lowland gorilla trekking permit will be reserved. You don’t need to first come to get a gorilla trekking permit in Kahuzi Biega National Park. Why go through the hassle when we can get the job done in the shortest time possible?
How many gorilla permits are available in Congo per day?
There are about 72 lowland gorilla trekking permits that allow travelers to see the gorillas. These permits are limited in number due to the conservation efforts that are enforced to conserve the gorillas.
How many gorilla families are in Kahuzi Biega National Park?
There are over 9 gorilla habituated families that travelers can encounter in Kahuzi Biega National Park. Each gorilla family is tracked by a group of 8 people. These gorilla families are first habituated for them to get used to the human presence. This process takes about 2 years within their habitats. Some of the lowland gorilla families that are available for tracking include;
Mugahuka gorilla family
This family was named after their dominant silver back Mugahuka and it is one of the nearest families for travelers to track during their safaris. It is usually much attacked by the Chimanuka where it has lost its members through the fights.
Chimanuka family
It is one of the charming gorilla families in the area which is under the leadership of Chimanuka Silver Back. It is made up of 19 family members and it is one of the most popular family members its permits are usually sold out.
Bonnani gorilla family
It is the smallest gorilla family of the low land gorillas that is within the Democratic Republic of Congo which is made up of 5 members. It was habituated recently.
Mpungwe gorilla family
It is made up of 21 members which is one of the popular groups in the park that travelers usually encounter on their safaris.
How much does a lowland gorilla trekking safari in Congo cost?
Travelers planning a low-land gorilla safari to Congo should always consider the cost of the packages and what is included in the package. The estimated cost of the safari package is about 1800 USD to 2100 USD for one to engage in the safari. This price usually includes the following;
- Gorilla trekking permit.
- Transportation costs
- Meals
- Accommodation facilities
- Airport pick-ups and transfers.
- Water
- Guide
But the price excludes the following
- Tips
- Air tickets
- Visa
Lowland gorilla trekking rules and regulations in Congo
Travelers to ensure a successful gorilla safari in Congo, there are several dos and don’ts that travelers should follow and they include ;
- No feeding the gorillas.
- Always take your pace while in search of the mountain gorillas.
- Keep time on the gorilla trekking day since it starts at 0700 hours.
- Follow the guidelines set by the ranger guide.
- Maintain a distance of 7 meters while viewing the gorillas.
- Always sanitize before the gorilla safari.
- No spitting on the leaves during the gorilla trekking.
- Avoid direct eye contact with the gorillas.
Where to stay on a lowland gorilla safari in Congo?
While in Congo for the lowland gorilla safaris, there are several accommodation facilities that travelers on their safaris can stay in and they are situated in Bukavu. These facilities include; Hotel Panorama, Residence Hotel, Lodge Coco, Orchids Safari Club, Hotel du lac, Horizon Hotel, Eden Hotel, Lakeside Hotel, Bach Hotel, Elizabeth Hotel Bukavu, Beautiful Villa with Ruzizi, Hotel New Riviera, Beau Lieu, and many others.
What is the best time to visit Congo for the lowland gorilla safaris?
Congo can be visited throughout the year for travelers to see the lowland gorillas. The best time to see the lowland gorillas is during the dry season of the year June to September and December to February where it is the best time to see the gorillas since the area is dry and clear for the viewing of the low land gorillas.
