Kahuzi-Biega National Park Congo
Kahuzi-Biega National Park is the best place in the world to meet eastern lowland gorillas, the largest of all gorilla subspecies. It lies in eastern DR Congo, west of Bukavu town and the southern tip of Lake Kivu. Although it is less well known than the mountain gorilla parks, it offers a quiet, memorable trek. Also known as Parc National de Kahuzi-Biega, it has a landscape that ranges from high montane forest to lowland rainforest.
The park takes its name from two extinct volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega. Both rise in the Mitumba Mountains, a range that runs along the Albertine Rift. In fact, Mount Kahuzi is the highest peak in this part of the range.
History and UNESCO status
Mount Biega was first protected as a forest reserve in 1937. Later, in the 1970s, it was joined with Kahuzi and expanded into a national park. Today it covers about 6,000 km², which makes it one of the larger protected areas in Africa.
Because of its unique wildlife and habitats, UNESCO listed Kahuzi-Biega as a World Heritage Site in 1980. Moreover, scientists have recorded about 1,178 plant species, 349 bird species and 139 mammal species here. You can read more on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Wildlife in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Eastern lowland gorillas, also called Grauer’s gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri), are the main attraction. They are the biggest of all gorillas, and they live only in eastern DR Congo. Sadly, their numbers have fallen sharply since the 1990s because of human pressure. As a result, every visit helps support their protection.
Beyond the gorillas, the park shelters African forest elephants, buffaloes, baboons, several monkey species, bush babies, forest hogs and antelopes. However, many of these animals are shy and live in thick forest, so sightings are never guaranteed.
Birds of Kahuzi-Biega
Kahuzi-Biega is also a rewarding birding destination, with about 349 species. For example, look out for the rare Congo peafowl and the crested helmet-shrike. In addition, many Albertine Rift endemics live in the montane forest.
Things to do in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
A gorilla trek here follows a simple pattern. First, you meet the rangers at the park headquarters for a short briefing. Then you walk into the forest, while trackers who left earlier guide your team towards the family. Once you find them, you spend about an hour watching the gorillas feed, rest and play. Finally, you hike back with memories that last a lifetime.
Besides the gorillas, there is plenty more to enjoy:
- Gorilla trekking: hike with rangers and trackers to spend time with a habituated family of eastern lowland gorillas.
- Mountain hiking: climb Mount Kahuzi or Mount Biega in the Mitumba range for wide views.
- Bird watching: search the forest for Albertine Rift specials.
- Nature walks: explore forest trails, streams and swamps with a guide.
- Camping and community tours: learn about life in the villages around the park.
To see the gorillas, join our 3-day Congo lowland gorilla safari. Alternatively, the park is part of our 11-day Uganda, Rwanda and Congo safari, which also visits Nyungwe and Bwindi.
How to get to Kahuzi-Biega
You can reach the park from Rwanda, Uganda or Burundi through Bukavu town. From the border, it is roughly 30 km to the park headquarters. From Kigali airport the trip is about 230 km by road, which takes around four to five hours.
Alternatively, if you are short on time, you can book a charter flight to Kavumu airport near Bukavu. Many travellers also combine the park with chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest, which lies close to the Rwanda–Congo border.
Best time to visit Kahuzi-Biega
The park is open all year, and the gorillas can be tracked in any season. However, their movements change through the year. From June to September, they often travel long distances in search of food. In contrast, from April to May food is close by, so they move less. Then, in October and November, bamboo shoots become one of their main foods.
In general, the drier months make the forest trails easier to walk. Still, you should pack a rain jacket and good boots, because rain can fall at any time. For more on seasons, see our guide to the best time to see gorillas.
Where to stay and travel conditions
There are no lodges inside the park. Instead, you stay in Bukavu town, where hotels range from comfortable mid-range options to simple guest houses.
Please note that travel conditions in eastern DR Congo change. For this reason, Roots checks the current situation and the park’s operating status before confirming any trip. We will share this with you when you enquire.
Tips for trekking lowland gorillas
- Wear sturdy boots and long trousers: trails can be steep, muddy and full of nettles.
- Bring gardening gloves: they help when you grab branches on slippery slopes.
- Pack rain gear and water: treks can take a few hours, depending on where the family is.
- Keep your distance: stay with your ranger, speak softly and never eat near the gorillas.
- Stay home if you are unwell: gorillas can catch human illnesses, so rangers may turn away anyone who is sick.
Plan your Kahuzi-Biega National Park trip
Roots Tours & Travel plans tailor-made primate trips across Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. Simply tell us your dates and interests. Then we will suggest the best route, including permits and transfers. To compare other parks, see our guide to Congo’s national parks, or read about gorilla permits across the region.
Not sure where to start? Chat with our safari specialists. We’ll help you find the perfect adventure.Every great journey begins with a conversation. Let’s plan yours.
Contact Us
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