D.R. Congo Gorilla Safaris – Track Both Mountain & Lowland Gorillas
Congo gorilla safaris offer something found nowhere else on earth – the chance to track both endangered mountain gorillas and the rare eastern lowland gorillas in a single country. The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park, and Kahuzi-Biega National Park, the world’s best place to see Grauer’s (eastern lowland) gorillas, the largest gorilla subspecies on the planet.
For adventurous travellers, a Congo gorilla safari combines world-class primate trekking with active volcanoes, dramatic rainforest scenery and far smaller crowds than neighbouring Uganda and Rwanda. Our tailor-made Congo safaris are arranged with trusted local operators and experienced guides, with safety, permits and logistics handled end to end.
Where to Go in Congo
The DRC’s eastern parks protect extraordinary biodiversity, from mist-shrouded volcanoes to lowland rainforest. Discover the top Congo safari destinations:
Experience the ultimate gorilla trekking adventure in D.R. Congo
D.R. Congo is one of the most thrilling destinations in Africa for wildlife lovers, offering a truly unique gorilla trekking experience. The country is home to the endangered mountain gorillas of Virunga National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic and biodiverse protected areas. Trekking here is an adventure like no other, taking you through lush, misty rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and rugged terrain where these gentle giants roam freely.
Gorilla treks in Congo usually begin early in the morning with a briefing from expert guides. You’ll hike through dense forest trails, following the tracks of gorilla families.
The treks can vary in difficulty, from a few hours to a full day, but the reward is unforgettable: sitting quietly as a gorilla family goes about its daily life, from playful youngsters to the powerful silverbacks.
Looking for classic savannah game drives instead? Explore our East Africa wildlife safaris in Uganda, Kenya & Tanzania – or combine both worlds in one combined safari.
Planning Your Congo Gorilla Safari
The best time for Congo gorilla safaris is during the drier seasons – June to September and December to February – when forest trails are firmer and trekking is easier. Gorilla permits in DR Congo are required and limited, so early booking is essential. Many travellers combine a Congo gorilla safari with gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda, crossing easily via the Gisenyi/Goma or Bunagana borders.
Because DR Congo is a remote and evolving destination, we monitor conditions closely and only operate when it is safe to do so. Tell us your dates and interests and we will craft a secure, tailor-made Congo gorilla safari itinerary around you, including permits, transfers, accommodation and expert local guides.
Combine Your Congo Gorilla Safari
One of the great advantages of a Congo gorilla safari is how easily it combines with neighbouring destinations. From Goma you can cross into Rwanda for a second gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park or a visit to Kigali, while the Bunagana border links directly to Uganda’s Bwindi and the wider Pearl of Africa circuit. Adventurous travellers often pair Virunga’s mountain gorillas and Nyiragongo volcano with Kahuzi-Biega’s lowland gorillas for a complete two-gorilla experience.
Because conditions in the region can change, we keep every Congo gorilla safari flexible and fully supported on the ground, with experienced local guides, secure transfers and carefully chosen lodges. Whatever route you choose, we will tailor a safe and seamless itinerary that makes the most of this extraordinary and little-visited corner of Africa.
Explore More Safari Experiences
A Congo gorilla safari combines easily with the wider region. Add a second gorilla trek in Rwanda or Uganda, or explore gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking and wildlife safaris across East Africa.
Congo Gorilla Safari FAQ
Is DR Congo safe for gorilla trekking? We monitor conditions continuously and only operate in Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega when it is safe to do so, with trusted local guides and full support.
Which gorillas can I see? DR Congo is the only country where you can track both mountain gorillas (Virunga) and rare eastern lowland gorillas (Kahuzi-Biega).
How much are Congo gorilla permits? Congo’s permits are the most affordable of the three gorilla countries. We arrange them for you.
Can I climb Nyiragongo volcano too? Yes – the overnight hike to the world’s largest lava lake pairs perfectly with a Virunga gorilla trek.
