KAHUZI BIEGA NATIONAL PARK, CONGO, KAHUZI BIÉGA NATIONAL PARK

Kahuzi-Biéga National Park is a vast and breathtaking protected area in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Located near Bukavu on the western bank of Kivu Lake, the park covers over 6,000 square kilometers of primary tropical forest.

Dominated by two extinct volcanoes—Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega—this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the last refuges for endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas (Grauer’s gorillas).

Visitors from around the world come to witness its rich biodiversity, rare species, and unique blend of forest ecosystems during Congo safaris/gorilla tours.

This is a detailed breakdown of what Kahuzi-Biéga National Park entails!

Location Of Kahuzi Biéga National Park 

Kahuzi-Biéga National Park lies about 50 kilometers west of Bukavu, in the South Kivu Province of eastern DRC.

It stretches from the Congo Basin lowlands to the Albertine Rift highlands, forming a natural ecological corridor stretching ~4 km (4.6 mi) wide.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park safeguards a mountain forest in eastern DRC, the country’s most densely populated region, and stands as the second most important site on the Albertine Rift for its rich biodiversity, high levels of endemism, and numerous threatened species.

It borders other protected areas like Virunga National Park and Salonga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Key Facts About Kahuzi-Biéga National Park

• Established: 1970
• Size: ~6,000 sq. km
• Status: Among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites (since 1980)
• Home to: Over 200 Eastern Lowland Gorillas
• Legal Status: Protected under Congolese law
• Management: Overseen by ICCN (Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation)

Geography Of Kahuzi-Biega National Park 

Kahuzi-Biéga National Park covers 6,000 km² of diverse terrain in South Kivu Province (Bukavu) in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

It’s split into two main zones: the highland sector with two spectacular extinct volcanoes—Mount Kahuzi (3,308 m) and Mount Biega (2,790 m)—and the lowland regions, or lowland terrain, at 600 meters above sea level with riparian forests and dense continuous vegetation that includes dense lowland rainforest, montane forest, bamboo thickets, and sub-alpine heather supporting abundant wildlife to sub-alpine vegetation above 2,600 meters.

Stretching from the Mitumba Mountain ranges of the Albertine Rift in the Great Rift Valley to the Congo Basin, this national park features a continuous forest gradient, making it one of Sub-Saharan Africa’s most ecologically rich and geographically unique protected areas.

Climate And Weather of Kahuzi-Biéga National Park

Kahuzi-Biéga National Park has a tropical rainforest climate with year-round humidity. Dry seasons occur from June to September and mid-December to mid-February, while wet seasons run from March to May and from October to early December.

Rainfall averages 1,800 mm annually. Temperatures range from 10.4°C to 18°C. Roads may be impassable during heavy rains, affecting access to the national park.

History of Kahuzi-Biéga National Park 

Established in 1970, Kahuzi-Biéga National Park was named after its two extinct volcanoes, Kahuzi (3,308 meters) and Biéga (2,790 meters).

Initially created to protect Eastern Lowland Gorillas (Grauer’s gorilla), it gained World Heritage Site status in 1980 due to its rich biodiversity.

The park spans two distinct ecosystems—montane and lowland forests—connected by an ecological corridor, which contributes to its vast biodiversity.

The creation and 1975 expansion of Kahuzi-Biega National Park led to the forced eviction of around 6,000 Batwa people, leaving them landless and impoverished and highlighting broader conservation issues that often exclude Indigenous communities from their ancestral lands.

While studies show traditional land rights holders can protect biodiversity more effectively than imposed strategies, efforts to involve the Batwa in park management have been limited, with many agreements remaining unimplemented.

This underscores the need for a new conservation approach that genuinely integrates Indigenous rights and perspectives to ensure both social justice and long-term ecological success.

Despite this status, it has suffered from armed conflict, deforestation, and human encroachment.

Nonetheless, its legal status and international attention have enabled continued conservation efforts.

Kahuzi-Biéga National Park Management 

The park is managed by the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN) under national park legal status in collaboration with global partners like the Wildlife Conservation Society, UNESCO, and the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

Park rangers are trained and equipped to protect both visitors and wildlife.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park faces major conservation challenges due to habitat loss from illegal mining and agriculture, as well as insecurity and the presence of armed groups, which hinder effective wildlife monitoring.

Although 90% of illegal farms in the park’s ecological corridor have been evacuated, the long-term impact of this intervention remains to be fully assessed.

The current management plan emphasizes ecological/habitat restoration, ecotourism development, community outreach/involvement, and the protection of threatened species through wildlife monitoring.

Fascinating Tourist Attractions in Kahuzi-Biéga National Park

Eastern Lowland Gorillas -Key Highlight 

These rare species (Grauer’s gorilla) are the main attraction, famous for their stocky build, and they are the largest gorilla subspecies of the four gorilla subspecies worth seeing during Congo gorilla tours.

Kahuzi-Biéga National Park is best known for harboring one of the last strongholds of the endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas.

With only around 250 individuals surviving in the park, gorilla trekking here is a rare and emotional experience to see the Grauer’s gorilla, classified as critically endangered category by the IUCN Red List due to a 77% population decline between the mid-1990s and 2016, and now found in its last stronghold in the KBNP-OCR region, which harbors an estimated 84–91% of the global population, making it a crucial area for conservation.

These are found in ~ 5+ gorilla families available for tracking and live at elevations between 2,100 and 2,400 meters.

These gorilla families are habituated to human presence, including.

• Mpungwe: The largest habituated family, with 21 members.
• Chimanuka: The second-largest gorilla family, with 19 members, is popular for dynamic group interactions.
• Bonnani: The smallest and newest family to be habituated, with only 5 members.
• Mugahuka: A unique family consisting of a single silverback, Mugahuka, due to past disputes. Etc.

These allow tourists to track and observe the Grauer’s gorilla in the wild during Congo gorilla trekking tours/Congo gorilla safaris as well as other diverse and abundant fauna.

it is also worth noting that Kahuzi-Biega National Park is the only place in the world where visitors can see Grauer’s gorillas in the wild but other gorillas and gorilla trekking safari excursions can be done in other gorilla parks in Africa, such as Virunga National Park (Democratic Republic of Congo), Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP (Uganda), Mgahinga Gorilla NP (Uganda), and Volcanoes NP (Rwanda), to see endangered mountain Gorillas, or in Odzala NP (ROC) to see the western lowland gorillas.

OTHER THINGS TO SEE IN KAHUZI BIEGA NP

1)    Other Wildlife Species

Kahuzi-Biega is a sanctuary of diverse and abundant fauna that is home to 136 mammal species, making it the most diverse site in the Albertine Rift.

Apart from gorillas, you can find the bush elephant, antelopes, African forest elephants, bush buffalo, bongos, hylochere, and rare species like the aquatic genet and giant forest genet.

It is worth noting that in Kahuzi-Biega, forest elephant numbers have drastically declined, particularly in the low-altitude regions, due to intense poaching for ivory and bushmeat.

2)    Other Primates

The park also protects 14 other species of primates besides the endemic Grauer’s gorilla like red-faced chimpanzees and Colobus monkeys, among others, that can be seen during Congo gorilla safaris/Congo wildlife safaris.

3)    Diverse Array of Bird Species

Kahuzi-Biega National Park also boasts over 349 bird species, including 42 endemics, making it an Important Endemic Bird Area (IBA) as designated by BirdLife International.

Some of the birds identified in the park include the Congo Peafowl, Ruwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s swamp warbler, among other birds that can be seen during Congo gorilla trips/Birding tours in Congo.

4)    Mountains (Mount Kahuzi & Biega)

The two extinct volcanoes—Mt. Kahuzi and Mt. Biega dominate the skyline and can be seen during Congo trips.

5)    Lake Kivu and Surroundings

Located near the western bank of L. Kivu, the park offers scenic views and opportunities for extended safaris to this great African lake.

Tourists can combine a visit to Kahuzi-Biega National Park with nearby protected areas like Virunga National Park, Salonga National Park, Garamba National Park, and L. Kivu for unforgettable experiences.

The proximity of L. Kivu to the Rwandan border makes it accessible from both Bukavu and Goma.

6)    Other Lakes and Rivers

Such as Lake Kahuzi, River Luka, and River Lugulu, which support fish fauna, crocodiles, hippos, and various water birds, are also beautiful things to see in Kahuzi-Biega National Park during Congo trips.

7)    Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary (Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Center)

Located 4 km from the park, this Lwiro chimpanzee sanctuary supports effective conservation of primates, especially huge chimps, making it a major highlight for this park, worth seeing during Congo tours.

8)    Diverse Flora and Vegetation in Kahuzi-Biega

The park’s forest vegetation is among the richest in Central Africa. Over 1,178 plant species have been recorded in the highland zone alone, with the lowlands still being explored.

The flora includes bamboo, swamp and bog vegetation, riparian forests, and endemic species like Senecio kahuzicus, found only at high elevations.

Other vegetation includes hypericum, mahogany, and savannah grasslands, forming a dense primary tropical forest dominated by biodiversity.

This flora variety makes the park an important center of plant diversity, recognized by IUCN and WWF in the whole of sub-Saharan Africa.

9)    Local Communities

These include the Batwa people, who have a deep connection to the land. Community development programs aim to promote peaceful coexistence and reduce the dependency of the Batwa on park resources through the involvement of them in conservation initiatives, tourism, and education, which is essential to sustainable management.

Visit Congo’s Kahuzi-Biega NP today for the most unforgettable safari experiences!

Tourist Activities in Kahuzi Biéga NP | What Can You Do at The Kahuzi-Biega National Park?) 

Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking 

Eastern Lowland Gorilla trekking is the park’s prominent tourist activity that most travelers go to partake in during Congo gorilla trekking tours/Congo safaris.

Lowland Gorilla treks begin at the park headquarters, where trained guides and rangers lead small groups (8) through dense forest trails lasting ~30 minutes to 8 hours, depending on the location of the habituated gorilla family (Five habituated gorilla families).

A gorilla permit, which goes for ~$400, is required per person and allows you to spend an hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat, foraging, eating, nurturing, or building sleeping nests in stinging nettles and bamboo trees, as well as other diverse and abundant fauna, including mammal species.

The best time to go to Congo’s Kahuzi-Biega NP for Grauer’s gorilla sightings is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February.

It is worth noting that Lowland Gorilla trekking not only supports nature conservation but also benefits local communities.

The gorilla trekking activity can also be done in Virunga National Park (DRC) to see mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP (Uganda), Mgahinga Gorilla NP (Uganda) to see mountain gorillas, Volcanoes NP (Rwanda) to see endangered mountain Gorillas, or in Odzala NP (ROC) to see the western lowland gorillas.

Gorilla tourism contributes approximately USD 150,000 annually to the park’s revenue and several tour operators offer this signature tourist activity.

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN KAHUZI BIEGA

1)    Hiking and Mountain Climbing
Travelers to Kahuzi-Biega can take part in hiking and mountain climbing safaris via popular trails on Mount Kahuzi & Mount Biega after obtaining hiking permits of ~$100 from the authorities.

This activity enables lucky tourists to have some wildlife sightings of bush buffalo, monkeys, birds, etc., and views of the Congo Basin during Congo safaris.

2)    Wildlife Viewing and Game Drives

Tourists on Congo trips in Kahuzi-Biega can take part in game-viewing safaris, game drives, and nature walks, which cost $35–$100, with animal sightings guaranteed.

3)    Birdwatching

With over 300 species of birds in birding hotspots all over Kahuzi-Biega, such as the riparian zones, montane forests, etc., the park is definitely a birdwatcher’s paradise worth exploring on Congo birding tours.

Birders only need to carry their birding binoculars, hire bird guides, and experience an adventure of a lifetime in this country.

4)    Cultural Encounters and Nature Walks

During Kahuzi-Biega National Park discoveries and explorations, tourists can also take part in cultural experiences and nature walks, which provide opportunities to meet Batwa Indigenous Peoples or other local communities in Bukavu and Tshibati to learn about their local customs, enjoy traditional performances, and buy some souvenir crafts made from kitenge.

5)    Camping Safaris in Kahuzi Biega NP

Tourists on Congo tours can also enjoy and take part in camping safari excursions that allow them to experience the park’s unique wilderness at a cost of ~$50 per person, including meals and a guide.

Visitors are required to bring their own tents and sleeping bags or rent them from the park for an additional $5 per person per day/night.

6)    Chimpanzee Tracking in Kahuzi Biega (Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary)

This is available in the Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary near Kahuzi-Biega National Park, requiring separate permits.

Guided tours with armed rangers and trackers enhance safety and spotting chances of the huge eastern chimps, offering a fascinating experience to observe rescued eastern chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

7)    Partaking in Conservation Efforts

Visitors to Kahuzi-Biega NP can support conservation efforts by participating in research projects, donating to organizations like WCS and UNESCO, advocating for policy changes, and promoting ecotourism to protect endangered species like eastern lowland gorillas.

8)    Boat Cruise on Lake Kivu

After lowland gorilla trekking safari excursions, tourists can unwind with a $50–$800 (varies by type) boat cruise on Lake Kivu, exploring enchanting islands, spotting birdlife and marine life, and enjoying scenic Virunga volcanic landscapes shared by the DRC and Rwanda.

Don’t miss an adventure of a lifetime. Contact us now and let us plan your next adventure to Congo’s Kahuzi-Biega National Park!

Rules And Regulations for Visiting Kahuzi-Biega National Park During Congo Tours 

• Always obtain valid permits from the authorities (gorilla permits/chimp tracking permits, etc.)
• Use professional guides or park rangers when exploring the park
• Follow designated trails and camp in designated areas
• No feeding or touching animals
• No littering or cutting trees in the park else you risk being fined.
• Respect local communities and customs
• Keep a safe distance from the wild animals
• No flash photography, especially when taking pictures of eastern lowland gorillas
• Follow all park rules and guidelines to the T

World-Class Safari Lodges and Congo Hotels in And Near Kahuzi-Biega National Park 

Book any of these accommodation options in advance for a comfortable rest during Congo safari holidays!

Safari Prices Incurred on Kahuzi Biéga NP Safari Tours | How Much Does It Cost to Go to Kahuzi Biega National Park?

Contact a reputable Congo tour operator for actual pricing and quotes!

How To Get to Kahuzi-Biega National Park for Safari Excursions? 

Traveling to Congo’s Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo requires some planning but offers scenic travel options.

The park is located about 30–40 kilometers west of Bukavu, accessible by road, air, or boat.

1)      By Road

The most popular route begins in Kigali, Rwanda, with a 6–7 hour drive to Cyangugu (Rusizi border), followed by a border crossing into Bukavu.

From Bukavu, a 4×4 safari vehicle is recommended for the 1.5-hour drive to the national park.

Alternatively, from Goma International Airport, it’s about 230 km by road, taking 5–6 hours.

2)      By Air

Fly into Kavumu Airstrip (near Bukavu) from Kinshasa or Kigali, then continue by road to the park headquarters. Domestic Charter flights are available but must be prearranged.

3)      By Boat

For a scenic and adventurous alternative, travelers can cruise from Bukavu to the park’s eastern entry point.

This route is especially helpful during the rainy season when roads may become muddy and impassable.

Regardless of your route, it’s advisable to travel with a licensed safari operator. They assist with logistics and gorilla permits and ensure smooth entry into one of Africa’s most rare sites for lowland gorilla trekking.

Best Time to Visit Kahuzi-Biega National Park in The DR Congo 

The best time to visit Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo is during the dry seasons: June to September and mid-December to mid-February.

These months offer clearer trails and better conditions for eastern lowland gorilla trekking and hiking, among other outdoor activities.

For birdwatching, the wet season from March to May is ideal.

While gorilla trekking is possible year-round, it’s wise to book gorilla permits early, especially in December, the park’s peak season.

Threats Facing the Park | Why Is Kahuzi-Biega National Park in Danger? 

Kahuzi-Biéga NP in the Democratic Republic of Congo faces a very serious threat from armed forces/armed groups, illegal human settlements, and wildlife trafficking.

The biodiversity of Kahuzi-Biega NP also faces other serious threats from armed militia activity and ongoing poaching, which has severely impacted populations of large mammals such as Grauer’s gorillas and forest elephants—particularly in the park’s lowland areas, where they are hunted for ivory and bushmeat.

Over 160 rangers have lost their lives protecting this World Heritage Site and vast area in DR Congo.

Encroachment, deforestation, and poaching of threatened species like eastern lowland gorillas (Grauer’s gorilla) add pressure to the conservation efforts.

Despite these challenges, authorities, alongside the Wildlife Conservation Society, are implementing a management plan to restore peace and ensure effective conservation of this rare site.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park: Ongoing Conservation Efforts 

Kahuzi-Biéga NP, a Heritage Site (UNESCO), continues to face a significant threat/conservation challenges, but progress is ongoing.

The ICCN, with help from international NGOs and the Wildlife Conservation Society, is leading a comprehensive management plan.

These efforts involve local population & community engagement programs, protecting natural resources, and promoting peaceful coexistence.

Engaging local communities, including the Batwa, in conservation efforts has helped ease tensions with park authorities, as traditional land rights holders often prove more effective in protecting biodiversity and landscapes than externally imposed strategies.

Despite its status as a heritage site in danger since 1997, tourism, local communities, and conservation stakeholders are working together to safeguard this primary tropical forest-dominated park and its river systems while supporting protected areas.

Packing List for Congo’s Kahuzi-Biega National Park Safaris

• Valid passport and DR Congo Visa
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Waterproof gear (raincoat, bag cover)
• Long-sleeved shirts and pants
• Birding Binoculars for birdwatching
• Insect repellent
• Camera
• Reusable water bottle
• Sleeping bag for camping
• First aid kit

Contact a reputable tour operator for the most recommended items to pack for your Congo safaris to Kahuzi-Biega National Park!

FAQs – Kahuzi Biéga National Park 

1. How Much Does It Cost to Go to Kahuzi-Biega National Park?

The cost of visiting Kahuzi-Biega National Park varies, but a lowland gorilla trekking permit typically costs between $400 and $600. Additional fees, including park entry, guide services, and transport, may also apply during Congo trips.

2. Why Is Kahuzi-Biega National Park a Top Attraction?

It’s a top attraction because it is one of the few places in the world where tourists can trek Eastern Lowland Gorillas in a pristine natural habitat.

3. What Can You Do at Kahuzi-Biega National Park?

In addition to gorilla trekking, visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, botanical tours, and cultural encounters with local communities.

Mt. Kahuzi and Biega also offer trekking opportunities for adventurous tourists, with panoramic views of the Congo Rainforest Basin.

Others include guided nature walks, photography safaris, and educational tours, which are also very popular among tourists on Congo tours.

4. What Is Kahuzi-Biega National Park Known For?

It’s known for Eastern Lowland Gorilla trekking, unique flora, rich biodiversity, extinct volcanoes, and its Heritage Site status.

5. Why Visit Kahuzi-Biega National Park?

• Rare Wildlife: One of the last places to see Eastern Lowland Gorillas
• Scenic Beauty: Spectacular extinct volcanoes and lush tropical forests
• Unique Biodiversity: Home to rare, endemic flora and fauna
• Cultural Richness: Meet local communities and explore their traditions
• Conservation Impact: Support efforts to protect a globally important habitat

Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters with lowland gorillas, hike the two spectacular extinct volcanoes, and enjoy rich biodiversity in Kahuzi Biega National Park, a rare worldwide safari destination in sub-Saharan Africa. Contact us to plan your journey today!