The Democratic Republic of Congo, in Central Africa, is a biodiversity hotspot with rich central africa wildlife, including about a quarter of the world’s mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park. The landscape features dense rainforests, active volcanoes, rivers, and savannah plains.
Visitors can explore unique wildlife like gorillas and chimpanzees, hike volcanic sites such as Nyiragongo, and experience the Congo River’s natural beauty. The DRC is also known for its strong conservation efforts despite regional challenges.
Travel requires careful planning due to limited infrastructure and security considerations, with main access through Kinshasa and Lubumbashi.
Why choose Natural World Safaris for your DRC Safari?
We originally started back in 2005 as World Primate Safaris. Our CEO and Founder Will Bolsover spent many years in the jungles of Central and East Africa, working in the gorilla parks of Uganda and Rwanda, the Eastern Lowland Gorilla and Mountain Gorilla parks of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and tracking the chimpanzees of Tanzania in Mahale and Gombe. He was the first person to lead gorilla treks in Gabon working with Emmanuel de Merode who now runs Virunga National Park in DRC.
Our clients will be accompanied by experienced guides with in-depth knowledge of the region and the issues it faces. It is possible to visit the DRC safely - subject to security updates at the time of travel - with careful planning and travellers will be accompanied by armed park rangers at all times. Our on-the-ground contacts keep a close eye on the security situation and new, welcoming facilities offer excellent places to stay for pioneering visitors.
For a 7-day safari in the DRC, we recommend a starting price of $5,000 per person. This will generally include accommodation at three different lodges, transfers and private guides.
Accommodation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) ranges from eco-luxury safari lodges to simple guesthouses. In Virunga National Park, top options include Mikeno Lodge, known for its comfort and sustainability, and Bukima Tented Camp, ideal for gorilla trekking access. Near Kahuzi-Biega National Park, travellers can stay at the Orchids Safari Club, offering lakeside charm, or Lwiro Primates, a research centre with guest facilities. In the capital, Kinshasa, choices span from the five-star Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel to budget-friendly stays like the Beatrice Hotel.
The best time to visit the DRC depends on your destination. For gorilla trekking in Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega National Parks, the dry seasons (June–September and December–February) offer the easiest conditions. These months are ideal for wildlife viewing and trekking. Kinshasa is best visited between May and September when the weather is drier and slightly cooler. Gorilla trekking is available year-round, with the rainy season offering fewer crowds and more availability.
Primates are where we started over 15 years ago. Specialising in primate safaris worldwide we were the sole global specialists in this field. While we've come a long way since, now covering 42 destinations around the globe, encounters with our primate relatives remain close to our hearts.
Discover the ultimate packing list for gorilla trekking. Learn what to bring for wet and dry seasons, including clothing, gear, and personal items to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
The best time to visit the DRC for gorilla trekking is June to September and December to February, when rainfall is lighter and trekking conditions are more comfortable in Virunga National Park.
Gorilla trekking in DRC takes place in Virunga National Park, home to several habituated mountain gorilla families on the slopes of the Mikeno volcano.
Virunga has had periods of instability, but guided tourism has resumed in specific areas under park supervision. Travel only through official Virunga partners and follow up-to-date security guidance before booking.
Mount Nyiragongo’s lava lake trek is currently suspended following volcanic activity, but the park plans to reopen once safety is confirmed. It remains one of Africa’s most iconic adventure climbs.
Most travellers fly to Kigali, Rwanda, then cross into Goma via the Gisenyi border. Virunga staff assist with transfers, permits, and logistics once inside the park.
Beyond gorillas, Virunga offers forest elephants, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and diverse birdlife. In western DRC, the Congo River basin hosts bonobos and endemic rainforest species.
Yes. A gorilla trekking permit is required for Virunga and must be booked through the park’s official channels. It’s one of Africa’s most affordable permits compared to Rwanda or Uganda.
Tourism in Virunga directly funds park security, wildlife protection, and community projects. The park employs hundreds of rangers who safeguard mountain gorillas and local livelihoods.
Pack waterproof hiking boots, gaiters, gloves, and long-sleeved clothing. Include a rain jacket, insect repellent, and durable backpack for mountain conditions.
Yes. Many travellers visit Rwanda or Uganda first, then cross into DRC for gorilla trekking or adventure travel. These multi-country routes offer great diversity and easier flight access.
Raw & Remarkable Encounters
The DRC offers a truly wild frontier. Trek through the forests of Virunga or Maiko to witness critically endangered eastern lowland or mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This is no ordinary wildlife experience, it’s immersive, unpredictable, and deeply moving, far from the crowds and cliché safari routes.
Wealth of Experience
With years of experience designing gorilla tracking safaris across Central Africa, we understand the unique challenges and incredible rewards of travel in the DRC. Our long-standing connections with expert guides, trackers, and researchers mean your journey is in the hands of those who know this complex landscape best.
Purpose-Driven Travel
We only work with partners who prioritise long-term conservation and community empowerment. Your visit supports ongoing efforts to protect vital ecosystems and species, while also helping to create sustainable livelihoods for those living alongside this extraordinary biodiversity.
