Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Deep in the lush heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo lies Kahuzi-Biega National Park, home to the rare and powerful Eastern Lowland Gorillas — also known as Grauer’s gorillas. Unlike the mountain gorillas of Virunga and Bwindi, these gentle giants inhabit the lowland rainforests at the foot of the Mitumba Mountains. Trekking here offers one of Africa’s most intimate and untouched primate encounters, combining adventure, conservation, and authentic cultural experiences.
Discovering Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Located near Bukavu, on the western shore of Lake Kivu, Kahuzi-Biega covers over 6,000 square kilometers of forest, rolling hills, and volcanic mountains. The park derives its name from Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, two extinct volcanoes whose fertile slopes sustain a rich ecosystem.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kahuzi-Biega protects not only the Eastern Lowland Gorilla but also numerous bird species, forest elephants, and unique plants found nowhere else on Earth. Its vast landscapes remain one of the most pristine rainforest environments in Central Africa.
The Eastern Lowland Gorilla – Congo’s Hidden Giant
The Eastern Lowland Gorilla is the largest of all gorilla subspecies. Adult males can weigh up to 250 kilograms, yet their calm demeanor and family-oriented behavior reveal their gentle nature. Unlike their mountain relatives, these gorillas live at lower altitudes, among thick forests filled with ferns, vines, and towering trees.
Their diet mainly includes fruits, leaves, and stems, and their large groups — sometimes up to 20 individuals — are led by a dominant silverback. Observing them in the wild offers a rare glimpse into a social structure that mirrors human family bonds.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience
Gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega begins at the park headquarters in Tshivanga, where visitors receive a briefing from experienced rangers. The trek usually starts early in the morning, winding through dense forest and bamboo thickets.
The hike can take between one and four hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location. Once located, trekkers spend a full hour in their presence. The experience is unforgettable — watching a silverback beat his chest in display, mothers cradling their young, and juveniles swinging through vines.
Every moment feels raw and real, surrounded by the deep calls of the forest and the earthy scent of rain-soaked leaves. The closeness to these magnificent creatures leaves a lasting emotional impact.
Habituated Gorilla Families
Kahuzi-Biega currently has several habituated gorilla families, including the Chimanuka and Mugaruka groups. The Chimanuka family is the most famous, led by a massive silverback that has been studied for years. Encounters with them are peaceful and personal, allowing visitors to observe natural behaviors at close range while maintaining respect for the animals’ space.
Permits are limited, ensuring minimal disturbance and a sustainable approach to tourism. This exclusivity also means that every trek feels private, offering travelers an experience rarely found elsewhere in Africa.
Beyond Gorilla Trekking – What Else to See
Kahuzi-Biega’s beauty extends beyond gorilla encounters. Hikes to the summits of Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega reward trekkers with panoramic views of the Congo Basin. Bird enthusiasts will find over 350 recorded species, including the rare yellow-crested helmet-shrike and the Rwenzori turaco.
Visitors can also take cultural tours to nearby Bashi and Barega communities, learning about traditional crafts, music, and local life. These interactions deepen the connection between conservation and community, showing how tourism supports livelihoods while preserving the forest.
Best Time to Visit Kahuzi-Biega
The best time for gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. Trails are easier to navigate, and wildlife sightings are excellent. However, the park remains open year-round, and the lush greenery of the wet season creates stunning photography opportunities.
Travelers are encouraged to book trekking permits in advance, as the park limits daily visitors to protect the gorillas.
Getting There and Entry Points
Most visitors reach Kahuzi-Biega via Bukavu, a town accessible by road from Rwanda’s Cyangugu border or by domestic flight from Goma. From Bukavu, it takes about an hour to reach the park headquarters.
The park staff and armed rangers accompany visitors throughout, ensuring safety and smooth coordination. Despite Congo’s challenging reputation, Kahuzi-Biega has remained a peaceful and well-managed destination for gorilla trekking.
Conservation and Sustainability
Kahuzi-Biega’s gorilla trekking program plays a crucial role in protecting Eastern Lowland Gorillas. Each permit sold contributes to ranger salaries, anti-poaching patrols, and local community projects. The park’s conservation success story stands as a symbol of hope in Central Africa, demonstrating how responsible tourism can safeguard endangered species and improve local welfare.
By trekking here, travelers become part of a broader mission — helping to preserve one of the last strongholds of the Eastern Lowland Gorilla.
Plan Your Gorilla Trek with GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS
Eastern Lowland Gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park offers an authentic and soul-stirring encounter with nature. It’s a journey into a quiet rainforest where the bond between human and gorilla feels pure and profound.
At GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS, we organize guided treks and handle permit bookings, transport, and accommodation, ensuring a seamless and safe experience. Whether it’s your first gorilla trek or a return to Africa’s wild heart, we craft itineraries that reveal the beauty and mystery of Kahuzi-Biega.
Inquire and book your Congo Gorilla Safari today with GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS and meet the rare Eastern Lowland Gorillas in their natural home.