Kahuzi-Biega National Park is one of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s most breathtaking and biologically diverse reserves, celebrated for its lush montane and lowland rainforests, rich wildlife, and unique conservation efforts. Located in the eastern region of the DRC, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an extraordinary journey into the heart of one of Africa’s most pristine natural environments.
Disclaimer: Travel to eastern DRC, including North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces, is risky due to ongoing conflict. We currently advise against travelling to this region.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park spans an area of 6,000 square kilometres (2,316 square miles), encompassing both lowland and mountainous regions. The park is named after two extinct volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, which dominate its landscape. This diverse terrain supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, creating a unique and captivating environment.
The park is renowned for its population of eastern lowland gorillas, also known as Grauer’s gorillas, the largest gorilla subspecies. In addition to gorillas, the park is home to other primates such as chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. The park also hosts a variety of wildlife, including forest elephants, buffaloes, and numerous antelope species. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with over 349 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics such as the Ruwenzori Turaco and the Grauer’s Broadbill.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park is characterised by its dramatic landscapes, featuring dense rainforests, rolling hills, and volcanic peaks. The park’s diverse ecosystems range from lowland tropical forests to high-altitude bamboo forests. The park is also known for its conservation efforts to protect the critically endangered eastern lowland gorillas and other wildlife species.
Notable Peaks
Visitors to Kahuzi-Biega National Park can engage with local communities, including the indigenous Batwa pygmies, to learn about their cultural heritage and traditional ways of life. Cultural tours offer enriching experiences and deep insights into local customs, traditional farming practices, and folklore.
The best time to visit Kahuzi-Biega National Park is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when the trails are less muddy and trekking conditions are ideal.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park offers an unparalleled wildlife and adventure experience in one of Africa’s most diverse and scenic rainforest regions. Whether you’re seeking an awe-inspiring encounter with eastern lowland gorillas, thrilling mountain climbs, or rich cultural interactions, Kahuzi-Biega promises an unforgettable adventure.
Disclaimer: Travel to eastern DRC, including North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces, is risky due to ongoing conflict. We currently advise against travelling to this region.
