Location
Kahuzi-Biega National Park, South Kivu
Duration
3–5 days
Group Size
1–8 people
Difficulty
Moderate to Challenging
Overview
Meet the giants of the primate world—Grauer's gorillas (Eastern Lowland Gorillas). These magnificent creatures are the largest of all great apes, with silverbacks weighing up to 250 kg, yet they remain far less visited than their mountain gorilla cousins. Kahuzi-Biega National Park offers an intimate, crowd-free gorilla experience in the misty highlands of eastern DRC. Named after the two extinct volcanoes that dominate its landscape—Mount Kahuzi (3,308m) and Mount Biega (2,790m)—this UNESCO World Heritage Site protects one of the last strongholds of Grauer's gorillas. With fewer than 4,000 individuals remaining in the wild, seeing them here is both a privilege and a conservation imperative. The highland sector where gorilla tracking takes place features montane rainforest, bamboo groves, and stunning volcanic scenery. Trails are less steep than Virunga, making this an excellent option for those seeking a gorilla experience with slightly easier terrain.
Tour Highlights
Track Grauer's gorillas—the world's largest great apes
Smaller visitor numbers for a more intimate experience
Explore montane forest and bamboo zones
Learn from ICCN rangers who have protected gorillas for decades
Optional summit hike on Mount Kahuzi
Visit local conservation communities
Combine with Lake Kivu relaxation
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Bukavu
Arrive in Bukavu (via Kigali overland or flight). Transfer to lakeside hotel with stunning views of Lake Kivu. Evening briefing on gorilla trekking and park regulations.
Gorilla Trekking Day
Early morning drive to Kahuzi-Biega National Park headquarters (1.5 hours). Ranger briefing and assignment to a gorilla family. Trek through montane forest (2-6 hours) to find your gorilla group. Spend one magical hour observing their behavior. Return to Bukavu.
Second Trek or Mount Kahuzi Hike
Option A: Second gorilla trek to visit a different family. Option B: Climb Mount Kahuzi (3,308m) for panoramic views of the Albertine Rift. Evening celebration dinner.
Community & Culture
Morning visit to Pygmy villages near the park. Learn about traditional forest knowledge and conservation partnerships. Afternoon at leisure on Lake Kivu or exploring Bukavu.
Departure
Transfer to Bukavu airport or overland to Kigali. Optional extension to Nyungwe Forest or Lake Kivu islands.
What's Included
- Gorilla trekking permit (€370 value)
- Park entrance fees
- ICCN ranger guides
- All ground transportation
- 4 nights hotel accommodation
- All meals during the trek
- Bottled water and trekking snacks
- Trekking poles
- Certificate of completion
Not Included
- International flights
- DRC visa (€97) or Rwanda visa for border crossing
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal expenses
- Optional Mount Kahuzi climbing fee
- Alcoholic beverages
Practical Information
Conservation & Community Impact
Grauer's gorillas have suffered catastrophic declines—from an estimated 17,000 in the 1990s to fewer than 4,000 today. Armed conflict, habitat loss, and poaching have devastated populations. Your visit directly supports: • Park ranger salaries and anti-poaching operations • Gorilla monitoring and veterinary care • Community conservation programs in 23 surrounding villages • Environmental education reaching 15,000+ students annually • Habitat restoration in degraded forest areas Kahuzi-Biega represents hope for Grauer's gorillas. Tourism revenue provides essential funding during periods when other income sources are limited, ensuring rangers can continue their vital protection work.
Best Time to Visit
Best season: June-September and December-February
Physical Requirements
Moderate fitness required (ability to hike 3-5 hours on forest trails)
