Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is one of the most remarkable destinations in Africa, drawing adventurous travelers who wish to come face-to-face with the magnificent Eastern lowland gorillas. Set in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, this vast expanse of primary tropical forest is dominated by two spectacular extinct volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, creating an unforgettable and dramatic landscape. The park's extraordinary biodiversity extends far beyond gorillas. Visitors can explore dense forests, bamboo woodlands, and sub-alpine heathers, home to a variety of primates, forest elephants, and endemic bird species. The hiking trails not only lead to gorilla encounters but also offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous terrain and the sprawling Kivu region. To reach the park, most tourists travel through the city of Bukavu, which is easily accessible via the border with Rwanda. In Bukavu, visitors can enjoy local Congolese hospitality and savor fresh fish dishes from Lake Kivu. The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to August, when the forest trails are more accessible and the gorilla trekking experience is most enjoyable.

Nearby cities

Bukavu

Bukavu is the capital of South Kivu Province, located at the extreme eastern end of the country on Lake Kivu.

Uvira

Uvira is a city in South Kivu Province, located at the northern tip of Lake Tanganyika, near the Burundi border.

Kalehe

Kalehe is a town on the western shore of Lake Kivu in South Kivu.

Walungu

Walungu is located in the fertile highland regions of South Kivu.

Idjwi Island

The second-largest inland island in Africa, Idjwi offers a peaceful, untouched retreat with lush landscapes and welcoming local communities.

Lake Kivu

One of Africa's Great Lakes, forming the border between the DRC and Rwanda, known for its stunning mountain scenery, clear waters, and ge…

Mwenga

Mwenga is a mining and agricultural town in South Kivu province.

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Kamituga

Kamituga is a city in South Kivu Province, historically significant for its large-scale gold mining operations.

Shabunda

Shabunda is the capital of a vast, remote forested territory in South Kivu.

Baraka

Baraka is a city in South Kivu Province, situated on the shores of Lake Tanganyika within the Fizi Territory.

History & landmarks

Concord Stadium (Bukavu)

The main stadium of Bukavu, located in the Kadutu district.

Our Lady of Peace Cathedral

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de la Paix in Bukavu is a beautiful Catholic cathedral with stunning views over Lake Kivu.

Collège Alfajiri

Collège Alfajiri in Bukavu is one of the most prestigious secondary schools in the DR Congo, known for its academic excellence.

St. Kizito Cathedral (Idjwi)

The main church on Idjwi Island in Lake Kivu.

More places

Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is a protected area near Bukavu, established to protect the Eastern Lowland gorillas.

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Katana Cement Plant

The cement plant in Katana on the western shore of Lake Kivu supplies the South Kivu region with essential building materials.

Bukavu Children's Park

Children's parks in Bukavu provide scenic and safe spaces for play overlooking the beautiful shores of Lake Kivu.

Port of Bukavu

The port of Bukavu at the southern end of Lake Kivu is a central port of call for ships from Goma and Idjwi.

Pharmakina Factory

Pharmakina in Bukavu is the largest factory in Africa for producing quinine from cinchona bark to combat malaria.

Historical Costermansville

Founded as Ruzizi and later named after Governor Costermans, Bukavu was a fashionable resort with European flair on Lake Kivu.

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Uvira Coast

The Uvira coast on the northern Lake Tanganyika was a strategic starting point for inland expeditions in the 19th century.

Historical Ruvubu Valley

The valley region in the east of the country was an ancient migration and trade route between the Great Lakes, used for the exchange of i…