About Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park is Africa's oldest national park, gazetted in 1925 and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Covering 7,800 square kilometers in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, it is renowned for its biodiversity and as a sanctuary for mountain gorillas.

The park features a dramatic landscape of volcanoes, forests, savannahs, and lakes. Virunga is part of the Virunga Massif, which spans the borders of Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda, and is home to endangered mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and a wealth of other wildlife.

Location

Eastern DRC, near Lake Kivu

Climate

Varied: tropical to alpine

Best Time

June-September, Dec-Feb

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Mountain Gorillas & More

Virunga is world-famous for its mountain gorillas, but also supports chimpanzees, golden monkeys, forest elephants, and over 700 bird species. Its diverse habitats make it a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike.

Primates

Mountain Gorillas
Chimpanzees
Golden Monkeys
Hamlyn's Monkeys

Mammals

Forest Elephants
Buffaloes
Leopards
Antelopes

Birds

700+ Bird Species
Rare Endemics
Forest Specialists
Migratory Birds

Adventure Activities

Gorilla Trekking

Track endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Virunga offers one of the most affordable gorilla trekking experiences in Africa.

Permit Required Expert Guides 1 Hour Viewing

Volcano Hiking

Hike the active Mount Nyiragongo volcano to witness the world's largest boiling lava lake. The ascent is challenging but rewarding, with overnight options at the summit.

Active Volcano Lava Lake Overnight Option

Chimpanzee Tracking

Track habituated chimpanzee families and observe their fascinating behaviors in the wild.

Habituated Groups Expert Guides Educational

Bird Watching

With over 700 bird species, Virunga is a paradise for birders. Spot rare endemics and migratory species with the help of expert guides.

700+ Species Rare Endemics Expert Guides

Conservation & Protection

Virunga faces significant conservation challenges, including poaching and regional instability. However, it remains a critical stronghold for mountain gorillas and other endangered species. Conservation efforts focus on anti-poaching, community engagement, and sustainable tourism.

Protection Status

UNESCO World Heritage Site

International Support

Multiple conservation partners

Community Involvement

Local community engagement

Getting There

Virunga National Park can be accessed by road or air. The park is close to Goma (DRC), and is also accessible from Rwanda and Uganda. Charter flights and 4WD vehicles are recommended for convenience and safety.

By Air

Fly to Goma Airport or Kigali International Airport

By Road

2 hours from Kigali via Gisenyi border

From Uganda

Via Bunagana border to Bukima (1 hour)

Accommodation

Virunga offers a range of accommodation, from basic camps to comfortable lodges. Popular options include Mikeno Lodge and Bukima Tented Camp. Book in advance and coordinate with tour operators for safety and logistics.

Virunga National Park

7,800

1925

UNESCO

196