When it comes to safaris in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), most people are left to think that it is gorilla trekking in the Virunga National Park but the latter isn’t true as there is a lot more for you to explore. For any plans to pay a visit to DRC for safari, Kahuzi Biega National Park is that one most exceptional safari destinations you need to think of exploring.
This park remains a few hidden treasures not only in DR Congo but also in Africa and yet it boasts of its unique creatures. It was founded in 1970 and covers an area of about 6000 square kilometers. It is located on the eastern side of DR Congo just within Bukavu town. Its vegetation ranges from marshland, tropical rain forests, riparian while its flora and fauna are equally diverse. The following are some of the attractions and exciting activities for you to enjoy while on safari in Kahuzi Biega National Park;
Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking
In addition to trekking to see mountain gorillas while on safari in DR Congo, don’t miss being part of the eastern lowland gorilla trekking experiences in Kahuzi Biega National Park. This park offers refuge to the largest number of these particular gorilla species worldwide making it the only destination to see Eastern lowland gorillas in Africa.
While on a gorilla safari in Congo, you will have a chance to track one of the six habituated gorilla families within the park. Treks to see these great apes may take you about 1 to 6 hours depending on their location, your hiking speed, and other factors.
Hikes are done daily within the park and offer an opportunity for you to explore more about their behaviors, body gestures, and a chance to take pictures. Equally, eastern lowland gorilla trekking allows you only an hour to have a magical encounter with these unique primate species.
Volcano hiking
When you think of safaris in Kahuzi Biega National Park expect more than viewing the eastern lowland gorillas. This park is also ideal for hiking adventures which are conducted in its 2 spectacular volcanoes. The two extinct volcanoes to explore while on safari in this park include Mount Kahuzi which is the highest with an altitude of 3308 meters and Biega at 2790 meters. While on a hike through these volcanoes, you also have a chance to explore its rare vegetation which comprises bamboo and subalpine vegetation that also inhabit several wildlife species, and most importantly, you will have the opportunity to sight the owl-faced monkeys and not forget most bird species.
Bird watching
If you love birding then a visit to Kahuzi Biega National Park should be a must while you are on safari in DR Congo. This park hosts about 342 varied bird species 42 of these are endemic to this park. While on birding safari in Kahuzi Biega National Park, expect to spot out birds like the African green broadbill, Congo peafowl, Rockefeller’s, yellow-crested helmet shrike a mention but a few.
Nature walks
For nature lovers, this park is also perfect for you to explore while on a nature walk. It is this remarkable experience that allows you to explore this park in depth. It takes you through the trails to the tropical rainforest to varied tourist sites. They lead you to sites like Tshibiti waterfalls to 3 waterfalls within the park. You will be accompanied by an experienced park guide and while on a nature walk, you also have a chance to explore the park’s varied vegetation and wildlife including bird species.
Tshibiti waterfall trail takes you through a well-marked path and gets you close to two Rivers and hence offering you stunning views of the waterfalls. This trail features many steps which take you to and back the waterfalls. As well, you can pay a visit to Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary which is situated about 50 kilometers in Bukavu south of Lake Kivu and 10 kilometers away from Kahuzi Biega National Park. This sanctuary hosts mainly the orphaned primates including chimpanzees, baboons, and many monkeys.
In conclusion, when you think of going off the beaten path, visiting Kahuzi Biega National Park should be a must. In this amazing park, you will come to see some of the last remaining population of the Eastern gorilla species, one of the threatened species A visit to this stunning park rewards travel endeavors with lifetime safari experiences that are not only memorable but also highly adventurous.
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