The Democratic Republic of Congo is both intimidating and exciting. Straddling the equator and spanning across Africa from east to west, its appeal to safari adventurers lies in the special rainforest parks. Much of the country is essentially inaccessible, but in the east around Lake Kivu is the perfect place to explore one of Africa’s most awe-inspiring regions. The prime attraction is trekking to see two different gorilla subspecies. With less people visiting, the park experiences are also generally more private with a wonderful wilderness feel in the mountains.
Much of the amazing wildlife in the eastern DRC is endemic to the rift valley region. Aside from gorillas and chimpanzees, one can expect to see anything from the variety of Monkeys and colourful Turacos to chameleons and even elephants, whilst the mythical Okapi lurks unseen! To make the most of the safari in this part of the world, we highly recommend being led by one of our experienced professional Africa guides.
Highlights
- Experience the indescribable thrill of an encounter with wild gorillas in Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega
- Hike up Mt. Nyiragongo to spend a surreal night peering into the world’s largest active lava lake and wake with a view over the entire Virunga mountain chain.
- Relax on the shores of Lake Kivu after the rigours of the hike and enjoy the birdlife and scenes of distant forests and fisherman
- Enjoy an intimate visit to Senkwekwe gorilla orphanage or Lwiro Primate centre to meet the primates and the people doing the hard yards in forest conservation.
- Take in the local Congolese culture with a fun walking tour through either Goma or Bukavu
Animals you’ll see
Linyanti and Selinda in Botswana offer very high densities of elephant in the dry winter months, an attraction all on its own. The diversity of antelope and predators is good here too, including species like the majestic Sable and Roan. The endangered African Wild Dog thrives offers incredible safari viewing in this habitat and denning season from July – Sept is a particular highlight. The now famed Selinda Canoe Trail is another great feature of this particularly wild part of Botswana.
The Okavango is the one destination I will always return to for wildlife action and personal tranquility.
James Johnson, USA
Currently, our tourism activities focus on two of Africa’s oldest national parks, both World Heritage Sites, the parks of Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega.
Both are just across the border from Rwanda, so combine very well with a safari here and also other East Africa countries to include more traditional savanna-based safaris.
Learn more about safaris in Democratic Republic of Congo
