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Virunga National Park
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Virunga National Park, established in 1925, is Africa's oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spanning nearly 7,800 square kilometers in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, it gives extraordinary biodiversity, ranging from the glaciers of the Ruwenzori Mountains to savannas and tropical rainforests. The park is world-renowned for protecting critically endangered mountain gorillas, which inhabit the slopes of the Virunga volcanoes. Additionally, the park is home to Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world's most active volcanoes featuring a permanent lava lake. Despite decades of armed conflict and poaching, dedicated rangers risk their lives to preserve this unique ecosystem. The park is a crucial driver for ecotourism and sustainable development in the North Kivu region.
- Location: Congo - Kinshasa
- Nearby: Virunga National Park (24 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Jun, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 78 | 86 | 137 | 125 | 107 | 69 | 61 | 108 | 141 | 162 | 154 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best time for gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February, when trails are less muddy. However, sightings are possible year-round, as the animals live in the park permanently.
Best time of day
Gorilla treks typically start very early in the morning, often before 7 am, as the animals are most active in the early hours. Plan to be at the meeting point before sunrise to maximize your chances of an encounter.
Etiquette
Keep a strict minimum distance of 7 meters from the gorillas to prevent disease transmission. Flash photography, eating, or drinking near them is strictly forbidden - always follow the guide's instructions.
What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are essential for the steep and muddy trails. Bring rain gear, long-sleeved clothing for sun and insect protection, as well as binoculars for bird watching.
Getting there
Most visitors fly to Kigali (Rwanda) and then drive to the park entrance at Goma (DRC). Alternatively, you can fly directly to Goma Airport and arrange a park-authorized transfer to the headquarters.
What to expect
A gorilla trek can involve several hours of strenuous hiking through dense forest - sightings are never guaranteed. Be prepared for physical exertion and changeable weather; the reward is unforgettable.
Geography
Facts
- Originally established under the name Albert National Park.
- Home to approximately one-third of the world's mountain gorilla population.
- Mount Nyiragongo features the largest permanent lava lake on Earth.
- UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979 (on the danger list since 1994).
- More than 180 rangers have lost their lives in the line of duty.
- Spans altitudes ranging from 680 to over 5,100 meters above sea level.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What animals are the main attraction in Virunga Park?
Mountain gorillas are the most famous attraction of the park.
Is Virunga National Park safe for tourists?
The security situation can fluctuate; tourists should always check beforehand and use official rangers.
Can you climb the Nyiragongo volcano?
Trekking tours to the summit and its lava lake are often offered, but depend on volcanic activity.
How do you get to Virunga National Park?
Most people travel via Goma, which has an airport and is located near the park boundary.
When is the best time for gorilla trekking?
The dry seasons from June to September and December to February are convenient for hiking.
Virunga National Park: where is it located?
Virunga National Park is located in Congo - Kinshasa.
Virunga National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Jun, Jul.
Virunga National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Virunga National Park, established in 1925, is Africa's oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Nearby cities
Goma
Goma is the capital of North Kivu Province, located on the northern shore of Lake Kivu, near the Nyiragongo volcano.
Butembo
Butembo is a major commercial city in North Kivu Province, known as a hub for cross-border trade with East Africa.
Beni
Beni is a city in North Kivu Province, located at the edge of the Virunga National Park and the Rwenzori Mountains.
Rutshuru
Rutshuru is located in a fertile volcanic region north of Goma in North Kivu.
Oicha
Oicha is the administrative center of the Beni Territory in North Kivu Province, located north of Beni city.
Lubero
Lubero is a high-altitude town in North Kivu with a temperate climate.
Virunga National Park
Virunga National Park is Africa's oldest national park, famous for its incredible biodiversity and endangered mountain gorillas.
Masisi
Masisi is known for its green hills and significant cattle ranching in North Kivu.
Walikale
Walikale is a remote mining town in North Kivu, rich in mineral resources.
History & landmarks
St. Therese Cathedral, Butembo
The imposing cathedral of Butembo, a symbol of Christian faith in the northeast.
Unity Monument (Goma)
A prominent monument in Goma city center symbolizing peace and cohesion.
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Chukudu Monument
The Chukudu Monument in Goma honors the unique local wooden scooters used to transport goods through the city's rugged terrain.
St. Joseph Cathedral Goma
The Cathédrale Saint-Joseph in Goma is the city's primary Catholic church, serving as a beacon of hope and faith for the community.
More places
Congo Tea Cultivation
Tea cultivation is a specialized industry in the high-altitude regions of the eastern DR Congo, known for its premium quality.
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Congo Coffee Plantation
Coffee plantations in the DR Congo produce both Arabica and Robusta beans, renowned for their rich and complex flavor profiles.
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Ishango Archaeological Site
At Ishango on Lake Edward, the famous Ishango bone was found, an over 20,000-year-old mathematical artifact with incised markings.
Lubero Mountain Farms
Due to the cool high altitude, European vegetables such as potatoes and cabbage are grown in Lubero.
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Mount Tshiaberimu
An isolated mountain massif on the western edge of Lake Edward.
Tayna Nature Reserve
A community-managed reserve specifically dedicated to the protection of Grauer's gorillas.
Goma Children's Park
Children's parks in Goma provide much-needed spaces for play and community healing in the city's unique volcanic landscape.
Port of Goma
The port of Goma connects the provincial capital of North Kivu with Bukavu and Rwanda via Lake Kivu.