Salonga National Park: Track Bonobos in Africa's Largest Rainforest Reserve 2025
About This Experience
Deep in the heart of the Congo Basin lies Salonga National Park—Africa's largest tropical rainforest reserve and one of the most remote protected areas on Earth. This is the kingdom of the bonobo—humanity's closest living relative alongside the chimpanzee, found nowhere else on Earth outside the Democratic Republic of Congo. Tracking them through Salonga's swampy forests is not just wildlife viewing—it's a profound encounter with our evolutionary cousins in one of the planet's last truly wild places.
Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Arrival and orientation meeting
- City tour and National Museum
- Pre-expedition briefing
- Overnight Kinshasa hotel
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (Recommended)
June - September & December - February
- Best trekking conditions
- Clearer views and visibility
- Optimal wildlife viewing
Rainy Season
March - May & October - November
- Fewer tourists
- Lush green landscapes
- Muddy trails possible
What to Bring
Clothing
- • Sturdy hiking boots
- • Long pants & sleeves
- • Rain jacket
- • Warm layers
- • Sun hat
Equipment
- • Camera
- • Binoculars
- • Daypack
- • Water bottle
- • Headlamp
Essentials
- • Passport
- • Travel insurance
- • Sunscreen
- • Insect repellent
- • Personal medications
What's Included
- Charter flights (round-trip)
- River transport throughout
- Park fees and permits
- Bonobo tracking (3 days)
- All camping equipment
- All meals during expedition
- Expert guides, trackers, porters
- Research station fees
- Kinshasa hotel (1-2 nights)
Not Included
- International flights
- DRC visa (€100-150)
- Yellow fever vaccination
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation (essential)
- Personal camping gear (sleeping bag, etc.)
- Tips for guides and staff
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
Important Information
Visa Requirements
Most nationalities require a visa to enter DRC. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival at major airports (€92-150) or through DRC embassies.
Health Requirements
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. We recommend consulting a travel medicine specialist 6-8 weeks before departure. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended.
Fitness Level
This tour requires moderate to good fitness for hiking activities. Please consult with us if you have any health concerns.
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