Is Congo safe for a gorilla safari now?

September 12, 2025 | Bujo Safaris

Is Congo safe for a gorilla safari now?

Are you planning a gorilla trekking safari to Congo? This is one of the most incredible wildlife encounters which offers you a chance to meet the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Gorilla safaris are only conducted in three countries of the world where gorillas can be found, including Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While gorilla trekking safaris are more popular in Uganda and Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is also home to various gorilla species, including those found in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park, which offer a chance to trek these endangered species. Gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo has not been as popular in recent years due to the region's political instability, although it is currently safe for gorilla safaris. 

For travellers planning to embark on a gorilla trek in the Congo, today, we take you through all you need to know about gorilla trekking safaris in Congo, including where to do gorilla trekking in Congo, what to pack for gorilla trekking, where to stay for a gorilla safari and tips to have a successful gorilla safari in Congo. 

Is Congo safe for gorilla trekking? Yes, Congo is generally safe for gorilla safaris, especially in the main destinations of Virunga National Park, Kahuzi-Biega National Park and Odzala-Kokoua National Park, though visitors planning to embark on gorilla safaris in Kenya are advised to book their gorilla safaris with a reputable tour operator who can fully customise their safari and ensure a smooth gorilla trekking experience. Safety measures have recently been strengthened, thus making the parks a better place to visit.  

Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Gorilla trekking is one of the most unique wildlife encounters, offering travellers a chance to get up close with the gorillas in their natural habitats. In the Congo, gorilla trekking safaris are conducted in the Virunga National Park, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, and Odzala-Kokoua National Park, which are home to tropical rainforests that are inhabited by mountain gorillas and other animal species. 

During the gorilla trekking process, visitors embark on a trek through the thick forests with the help of a ranger guide as they search for the gorillas in their natural setting. Once the gorillas are found, visitors are allowed to spend 1 hour in the presence of mountain gorillas as they learn more about their behaviours and lifestyle.

Where can I do gorilla trekking in Congo?

Virunga National Park: The park is one of Congo’s popular gorilla trekking destinations, located in the western part of the country and is home to the world’s largest mountain gorillas. The park also hosts 218 mammal species, 706 bird species, 109 reptile species, and 78 amphibian species. Initially, the park was closed due to political instability in the region, which resulted in a significant decline in wildlife populations, thereby discouraging tourism activities. However, as of 2025, tourism activities, including gorilla trekking.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park: The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the western part of the country near Lake Kivu. Kahuzi-Biega is popular for harbouring the Eastern lowland gorillas and can only be seen here in the world. The park covers about 6,000 sq km of lush tropical rainforests, montane and swamps. The eastern gorillas are the largest subspecies of gorillas and also offer a chance of getting up close to these gentle, endangered species, which creates an adventure of a lifetime.

Odzala-Kokoua National Park: Odzala-Kokoua National Park is one of the regions where you can see a species of gorillas known as western lowland gorillas. The park covers an area of about 13,600 sq km, which forms the famous Congo Basin and some other forests. Odzala-Kokoua National Park is partly covered with tropical rainforests, which are home to the western lowland gorillas. While gorilla trekking here is not popular, other tourist activities, such as guided forest walks and birding activities, can be done here.

How much does it cost to see gorillas in Congo?

Unlike other regions, where you can see gorillas, DR Congo offers a chance to see the gorillas at a cheaper price. Seeing the gorillas requires a gorilla trekking permit in all the gorilla national parks in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where a gorilla trekking permit costs USD 400 for Foreign Non-Residents, USD 200 for East African citizens and USD 200 for citizens. 

What you need to know about Gorilla Trekking in Congo

Safety and security: While planning to embark on a gorilla safari in Congo, it is important to consider the safety and security measures to have a seamless adventure. 

Health requirements: A yellow fever vaccination is a mandatory requirement for both countries, and therefore, prophylaxis is always recommended. This is because gorillas are highly susceptible to human illnesses, which stops visitors from trekking when they are suffering from such diseases as Malaria. Face masks are mandatory requirements, especially while observing these species in their natural habitats. 

Trekking Conditions: Gorilla trekking in Congo can be more physically demanding than in Rwanda and Uganda since it is mostly covered by dense forests. After booking your safari, it is important to practice physical exercises before going on your trip.

Cultural Experience: Congo offers a deeper cultural immersion, especially around Bukavu and Brazzaville, where local communities live in close connection with the forests. Engaging with local culture can be an enriching part of the journey.

When is the best time to do a gorilla safari in Congo?

Generally, Congo can be visited at any time of the year, depending on the choice and preferences of the traveller. However, the best time to do a gorilla safari is typically during the dry season, which runs from December to February and June to September. During this time, the weather conditions are more favourable for outdoor activities such as gorilla trekking and nature walks.

In conclusion, Congo is generally safe for gorilla safaris, provided you follow the safety and security considerations. For those seeking adventure beyond the well-trodden paths of Rwanda and Uganda, Congo’s forests still hold an untamed allure, blending raw wilderness with unforgettable primate encounters.