Virunga National Park Congo

Virunga National Park Congo: A Wild Sanctuary of Volcanoes, Gorillas, and Untamed Beauty

Virunga National Park is a place of staggering natural beauty, ecological importance, and unmatched biodiversity. Located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only Africa’s oldest national park, established in 1925, but also one of its most biologically diverse protected areas. Spanning over 7,800 square kilometers, Virunga covers a vast mosaic of rainforests, active volcanoes, savannas, swamps, lava plains, glaciers, and lakes — offering an ecosystem that is as diverse as any on Earth.

This legendary park lies within the Albertine Rift, a region globally recognized for its extraordinary wildlife, including rare and endangered species such as the mountain gorilla, eastern lowland (Grauer’s) gorilla, forest elephants, and okapi. Virunga shares borders with Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, forming the Virunga Conservation Area — the last refuge for the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

But Virunga is more than just a wildlife destination. It is a symbol of resilience, conservation in the face of conflict, and the passionate work of rangers and communities who risk everything to protect this extraordinary land. For adventurous travelers and conservation enthusiasts, a journey to Virunga National Park is like stepping into a living, breathing Eden — raw, remote, and unforgettable.

The Mountain Gorilla Experience in Virunga

Virunga National Park is one of only three places on Earth where you can see mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) in the wild. These magnificent primates, who share more than 98% of human DNA, inhabit the forested slopes of the Mikeno Volcano, one of the park’s central highlands.

Gorilla trekking in Virunga offers a more raw and intimate experience compared to the highly regulated tourism models of Rwanda and Uganda. Fewer tourists visit this region, meaning more exclusive treks and a deeper sense of wilderness. Virunga currently has several habituated gorilla families, such as the Humba, Rugendo, Bageni, and Kabirizi groups, each with distinct dynamics and personalities.

The trek begins at the Bukima Patrol Post, where visitors meet experienced park rangers and trackers. Treks range from one to four hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. The terrain can be steep and muddy, winding through thick forests of giant ferns and bamboo. When the gorillas are found, visitors spend one hour in silence, observing their behavior — the silverback’s commanding presence, the gentle interaction of mothers and infants, and the playful curiosity of juveniles.

This experience is deeply emotional and transformative, often described by visitors as the highlight of their lifetime travels. Not only do you witness gorillas in their natural environment, but you also support Virunga’s pioneering conservation efforts, which directly benefit local communities and wildlife protection.

The Nyiragongo Volcano Trek – Climbing Fire

One of the most dramatic and iconic experiences in Virunga is the trek to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Towering at 3,470 meters (11,385 ft), Nyiragongo is famous for its massive lava lake, which glows red at night and bubbles like a living furnace. The volcano erupted most recently in 2021, sending rivers of lava through the city of Goma — a reminder of the powerful and unpredictable forces of nature at play in this region.

The Nyiragongo trek is a challenging but rewarding overnight adventure. Hikers begin their ascent from Kibati, near Goma, and climb through a variety of vegetation zones — starting with montane forest, passing through alpine meadows, and finally reaching a stark, volcanic summit. After 5–6 hours of climbing, hikers are rewarded with one of the most surreal sights on Earth: the world’s largest lava lake, glowing beneath the stars.

Basic cabins are provided at the summit rim, offering shelter for the night as trekkers marvel at the otherworldly display. The descent begins early the next morning. This trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and pairs perfectly with a gorilla safari, offering both wildlife immersion and geological spectacle.

Conservation and Challenges: Protecting Paradise in a Conflict Zone

Virunga’s incredible biodiversity comes with immense challenges. For decades, the park has been at the center of regional conflict, poaching, illegal resource extraction, and political instability. Yet despite these dangers, Virunga has become a global symbol of conservation resilience.

Over 800 dedicated rangers, many of them former soldiers or local residents, work tirelessly to protect the park. These rangers face extreme risks, and many have lost their lives in the line of duty. The story of their bravery and the battle to save Virunga was captured in the award-winning Netflix documentary Virunga (2014), which brought global awareness to the park’s struggles and triumphs.

Thanks to efforts by the Virunga Foundation and international partners, the park has implemented innovative programs in conservation, tourism, and community development. These include:

  • Anti-poaching patrols and surveillance

  • Sustainable energy initiatives like hydroelectric plants

  • Employment programs for former militia members and poachers

  • Agroforestry and education programs in local villages

Tourism remains a key pillar in Virunga’s long-term conservation strategy. Each permit purchased contributes directly to ranger salaries, wildlife protection, and local community support — turning tourism into a life-saving tool in one of Africa’s most endangered ecosystems.

Visiting Virunga National Park: Logistics, Permits, and Safety

Traveling to Virunga National Park requires careful planning, due to both its remote location and security situation. However, for well-prepared and adventurous travelers, the rewards are immense.

How to Get There:

  • The gateway to the park is Goma, a city on the northern shore of Lake Kivu.

  • Most travelers fly into Kigali, Rwanda, and transfer by road to the Gisenyi–Goma border crossing, which takes about 3–4 hours.

  • From Goma, the park arranges transport to activity departure points like Bukima (for gorillas) and Kibati (for Nyiragongo).

Permits and Prices (as of 2025):

  • Gorilla Trekking Permit: USD $400–$500

  • Nyiragongo Volcano Hike (overnight): USD $300–$350

  • Additional Park Fees and Accommodation: Extra

All visits must be pre-booked through Virunga National Park’s official website or authorized partners. The park offers all-inclusive packages covering permits, guides, accommodation, and transport.

Safety Considerations:

  • Visitors should stay updated on the security situation, as it can change quickly.

  • The park operates guided, escorted tours only, with security provided by trained rangers and military support when necessary.

  • All treks are suspended immediately if there is any threat to visitor safety — the park prioritizes caution and transparency.

Accommodation in and Around Virunga

Virunga National Park offers a handful of rustic but comfortable accommodations for tourists, located near key trekking bases:

Bukima Tented Camp

  • Located near the gorilla tracking start point.

  • Offers cozy safari-style tents with private bathrooms, meals, and stunning views of the volcanoes.

Mikeno Lodge

  • The park’s flagship lodge, located at Rumangabo.

  • Comfortable bungalows with fireplaces, gourmet meals, and nature trails.

  • Ideal for relaxing before or after gorilla trekking.

Nyiragongo Summit Shelters

  • Basic wooden cabins at the volcano’s summit.

  • Provide essential shelter, sleeping pads, and unforgettable views of the lava lake.

Alternative:

  • For those preferring more comfort or traveling on tighter budgets, many visitors stay across the border in Gisenyi, Rwanda, and transfer into DRC for day trips.

Why Virunga National Park Should Be on Every Adventurer’s Bucket List

Virunga National Park is not just a safari destination, it’s a living frontier of conservation, wilderness, and raw beauty. From staring into the eyes of a mountain gorilla to standing on the rim of a molten lava lake, few places on Earth offer such a deep connection to both nature and humanity’s potential for stewardship.

Despite its turbulent past, Virunga continues to thrive because of brave rangers, committed communities, and travelers who believe in the power of tourism to do good. Every visit to this park supports not only endangered wildlife but also the people who risk everything to protect it.

For those who crave adventure with purpose, Virunga National Park in Congo is unmatched — a wild Eden of gorillas, volcanoes, and hope.