Kahuzi Biega National Park is one of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) premier national parks, offering a perfect blend of rich biodiversity, adventure, and conservation. Located in the eastern part of the DRC, it’s a haven for the critically endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas, Africa’s largest gorilla species. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its sprawling lowland and high-altitude rainforest, covers over 6,000 square kilometers. Whether you’re an experienced traveler, wildlife enthusiast, or looking for a unique family-friendly adventure, Kahuzi Biega National Park has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive guide, you will find everything you need to know, from activities and wildlife to logistics and safety tips, ensuring a smooth and memorable trip.

Overview of Kahuzi Biega National Park

Kahuzi Biega National Park was established in 1970 by Belgian conservationist Adrien Deschryver. The park takes its name from two dormant volcanoes: Mount Kahuzi, standing at 3,308 meters, and Mount Biega at 2,790 meters. These volcanic giants dominate the park’s landscape, dividing it into a lowland tropical rainforest and mountainous terrain.

The park is located 50 kilometers west of Bukavu, a bustling city on the shores of Lake Kivu. The landscape here ranges from lush, tropical lowland forests to bamboo-dominated high-altitude regions. Visitors are mesmerized by the park’s diverse ecosystems and its importance as a sanctuary for the endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas, also known as Grauer’s gorillas.

Kahuzi Biega is a critical stronghold for gorilla conservation, offering one of the last remaining homes for this species. With its abundant wildlife and incredible biodiversity, the park has earned a well-deserved reputation as a top destination for both gorilla trekking and ecotourism.

Activities in the park

2.1 Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is the crown jewel of Kahuzi Biega National Park, attracting wildlife enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. The park is home to over 200 Eastern Lowland Gorillas, and unlike other gorilla trekking destinations, Kahuzi Biega offers a more intimate and uncrowded experience. There are fewer tourists here compared to Uganda and Rwanda, making each trek feel exclusive.

The trek typically begins with a briefing at the park headquarters, where experienced guides and trackers prepare visitors for the adventure ahead. Gorilla groups are tracked daily, and finding them can take between 1 to 5 hours, depending on their location. Once a group is located, visitors are allowed to spend up to one hour observing the gorillas from a safe distance of at least 7 meters.

Gorilla trekking permits cost around $400 per person, which is more affordable compared to Rwanda’s $1,500 fee for mountain gorilla trekking. The permit fee directly contributes to conservation efforts, ensuring the protection of these critically endangered primates.

2.2 Hiking Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega

For those seeking an exhilarating adventure, hiking the two extinct volcanoes that give the park its name is a must. Mount Kahuzi, the taller of the two, offers a challenging but rewarding trek. The trail is well-marked, taking hikers through dense forest before reaching the summit. The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding forests and Lake Kivu in the distance.

Mount Biega, while shorter, provides a more relaxed hiking experience, making it ideal for less experienced hikers or those looking for a shorter adventure. Both volcanoes offer opportunities to witness the park’s rich plant life, unique bird species, and the sheer beauty of the Congo Basin.

2.3 Bird Watching

Kahuzi Biega is a birder’s paradise. With over 350 bird species, including 42 endemic species, the park is one of the best places for birdwatching in Africa. Birding enthusiasts can spot rare species such as the African green broadbill, yellow-crested helmet-shrike, and the Congo peafowl. Birding is excellent throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, when birds are most active and visible.

The park’s varied landscapes, from lowland forests to montane regions, offer diverse habitats for bird species. Birding tours are usually guided by experienced ornithologists who know the best spots to find rare and exotic birds.

2.4 Nature Walks and Guided Tours

Guided nature walks are a fantastic way to explore the park’s incredible flora and fauna without the strenuous demands of a hike. These walks take visitors deep into the park’s tropical rainforests, where expert guides share their knowledge about the diverse plant species, insects, and animals. Visitors will learn about medicinal plants used by the indigenous communities and discover the smaller wildlife that thrives in the forest, such as reptiles, amphibians, and a variety of insects.

The serene environment of Kahuzi Biega makes nature walks an ideal activity for families or those looking for a peaceful and educational experience.

2.5 Visiting Tshibati Waterfalls

Located within the park, the Tshibati waterfalls are a beautiful and lesser-known attraction. Visitors can hike to the falls through the park’s lush rainforest, where the sound of cascading water provides a tranquil escape. The waterfalls are an excellent spot for photography and a refreshing break from the rigors of trekking.

2.6 Cultural Visits

A visit to Kahuzi Biega isn’t complete without experiencing the local culture. The park is located near several indigenous Batwa communities. The Batwa people, also known as pygmies, have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. Through organized cultural tours, visitors can learn about their traditional way of life, see how they coexist with the park’s wildlife, and gain insight into their unique customs and rituals.

Cultural visits are an eye-opening experience that not only enriches the visit but also helps support local communities by contributing to their sustainable development.

Wildlife and Plant Life in Kahuzi Biega National Park

3.1 Wildlife

Kahuzi Biega is a wildlife lover’s dream, offering an impressive array of species beyond the famous Eastern Lowland Gorillas. Some of the key wildlife species include:

• Eastern Lowland Gorillas (Grauer’s Gorillas): As the park’s flagship species, these gorillas are the largest gorilla subspecies and one of the most endangered. They play a vital role in the park’s ecosystem by dispersing seeds and maintaining the health of the forest.
• Forest Elephants: These smaller and elusive elephants are an important part of the park’s biodiversity. They can be spotted in the park’s lowland areas, often heard before they are seen.
• Chimpanzees: Though less commonly seen, the park is home to several groups of chimpanzees. These intelligent primates are found in the dense forest areas.
• Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys: Visitors may encounter these striking primates, known for their long white tails and unique black-and-white coloring.
• Other Mammals: The park is home to a variety of mammals including leopards, giant forest hogs, forest buffaloes, and antelope species such as the bongo and duiker.

3.2 Plant Life

The vegetation in Kahuzi Biega is incredibly diverse, ranging from lowland tropical forests to bamboo-dominated highlands. The lower regions of the park are covered in dense rainforests, home to towering trees like mahogany and African teak. As you ascend the mountains, the landscape shifts to bamboo forests and alpine regions, where giant lobelias and other subalpine plants thrive.

The park’s plant diversity supports the rich wildlife and provides vital resources for local communities, who rely on certain plants for traditional medicine, food, and shelter.

4. How to Get to Kahuzi Biega National Park

4.1 By Air

The most convenient way to access Kahuzi Biega is by flying into Kavumu Airport, located about 40 kilometers from Bukavu. Kavumu Airport has regular flights from major cities in the DRC, including Kinshasa and Goma. From Bukavu, the journey to the park is around 1.5 to 2 hours by road.

4.2 By Road

If you are already in Bukavu, getting to Kahuzi Biega by road is relatively straightforward. The park is located about 50 kilometers west of the city, and the roads are generally in good condition. It’s recommended to hire a private vehicle or arrange transport through a tour operator to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.

5. Accommodation Options

While Kahuzi Biega National Park does not have accommodations inside the park, there are several excellent lodges and hotels in and around Bukavu:

• Orchid Safari Lodge: Located near the park, this luxury lodge offers stunning views of Lake Kivu and the surrounding mountains. It is an ideal base for visitors looking for comfort and excellent service.
• Coco Lodge Bukavu: A charming and eco-friendly lodge, Coco Lodge is known for its peaceful setting, friendly staff, and commitment to sustainability.
• Hotel Begonias: A mid-range option in Bukavu, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, good food, and close proximity to the park’s headquarters.

Visitors are encouraged to book accommodations well in advance, especially during the peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.

6. Park Rules and Regulations

To preserve the park’s natural beauty and protect its wildlife, Kahuzi Biega National Park has strict rules in place. Some of the key regulations include:

• Keep a safe distance from wildlife: Visitors must maintain a distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas and other animals to minimize disturbance and prevent disease transmission.
• Do not feed or touch animals: Feeding animals disrupts their natural behavior and can make them reliant on humans.
• No flash photography: Flash can startle wildlife and disrupt their natural habitat, so it’s important to turn off the flash when taking photos.
• Stay on designated trails: To protect the fragile ecosystem, visitors must stay on marked trails and avoid damaging plants.
• Carry out what you bring in: Littering is strictly prohibited. Visitors must take all waste with them and dispose of it properly.

Following these regulations ensures the park remains a pristine sanctuary for future generations.

Safety and Preparation Tips for Visiting Kahuzi Biega

Visiting Kahuzi Biega requires careful preparation, especially since the park is in a remote part of the DRC. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

• Hire a local guide: Guides are essential for navigating the park safely, especially during gorilla treks or hikes. They are knowledgeable about the terrain and wildlife, and they can enhance your overall experience.
• Bring proper gear: Pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so it’s advisable to carry a waterproof jacket and layers for warmth.
• Stay healthy: Make sure to get all necessary vaccinations before visiting the DRC, including yellow fever and malaria prophylaxis. Drink bottled water and avoid consuming food from street vendors to prevent illness.
• Respect local customs: The local communities near the park, especially the Batwa, have unique traditions and customs. Visitors should be respectful and open to learning about the local culture.
• Purchase travel insurance: Given the remote location, it’s highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations.

8. Conservation Efforts in Kahuzi Biega National Park

Kahuzi Biega National Park plays a crucial role in the conservation of endangered species, particularly the Eastern Lowland Gorillas. The park’s management, in collaboration with international organizations, has implemented several conservation initiatives aimed at protecting the park’s biodiversity and combating illegal activities such as poaching.

One of the most significant conservation projects in the park is gorilla habituation. Through this process, small groups of gorillas are gradually accustomed to the presence of humans, allowing for safe and sustainable tourism. This project not only helps fund conservation efforts but also raises awareness about the plight of these magnificent creatures.

The park also works closely with local communities, offering employment and education opportunities to reduce human-wildlife conflicts. By engaging local populations in conservation efforts, the park ensures a long-term future for its wildlife and ecosystems.

9. Other Activities Near Kahuzi Biega National Park

Kahuzi Biega is ideally situated for visitors looking to explore more of eastern Congo and neighboring regions. Here are some additional activities to consider:

• Exploring Lake Kivu: Just a short distance from the park, Lake Kivu is one of Africa’s Great Lakes and offers a serene setting for boat rides, swimming, and fishing.
• Nyungwe Forest National Park (Rwanda): If you have more time, Nyungwe Forest in neighboring Rwanda is a fantastic destination for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks. It’s located just a few hours from Kahuzi Biega and provides a complementary wildlife experience.
• Idjwi Island: This tranquil island on Lake Kivu offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities to hike, visit local villages, and learn about traditional Congolese culture.

Conclusion

Kahuzi Biega National Park is a hidden gem that offers a truly unique safari experience. From gorilla trekking to volcano hikes, bird watching, and cultural encounters, the park is a paradise for adventurers and wildlife lovers alike. With its incredible biodiversity, dedicated conservation efforts, and the opportunity to see Eastern Lowland Gorillas in their natural habitat, Kahuzi Biega is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the heart of Africa.

For a seamless and unforgettable trip, be sure to plan your visit well in advance, follow the park’s rules, and take necessary safety precautions. Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or group, Kahuzi Biega promises an adventure like no other.

Book your trip to Kahuzi Biega National Park today and experience the beauty and wildlife of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.