Kahuzi-Biega National Park, located in the Eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is one of the country’s most remarkable natural treasures. Established in 1970, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly its population of endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas. In addition to its primates, the park offers a variety of activities and attractions that make it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts, adventurers, and culture seekers.
1. Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking
Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is renowned for its remarkable population of Eastern Lowland Gorillas. These gorillas are distinct from other subspecies, characterized by a short muzzle, large paws, and a robust physique. Their diet primarily consists of fruits and various herbaceous plants. Two habituated groups of Eastern Lowland Gorillas have been acclimatized for trekking purposes, ensuring safe and controlled interactions with humans. Unlike wild gorillas, these groups pose no threat to visitors, offering a unique experience in a natural setting.
Gorilla trekking paths vary depending on where the gorillas slept the previous night. Trekkers can expect to spend up to an hour observing these majestic creatures, with the trek itself ranging from thirty minutes to five hours depending on the location of the gorilla families.
2. Mount Kahuzi & Biega Hiking
Beyond gorilla trekking, visitors can also hike Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega for breathtaking views of the park. Mount Kahuzi rises to an impressive 3,308 meters above sea level, while Mount Biega reaches 2,790 meters. Both peaks offer panoramic vistas of the park’s wildlife, neighboring towns, and neighboring countries. These hikes provide opportunities to explore subalpine and bamboo vegetation, home to a variety of animals including birds and owl-faced monkeys.
3. Bird Watching in Kahuzi Biega
Kahuzi-Biega National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to 349 different bird species. Its diverse landscapes—including forests, grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands—offer ample opportunities for spotting rare and unique avian species. Birders can observe species such as trogons, sunbirds, Ruwenzori turacos, Rockefeller birds, yellow-crested helmet-shrikes, and the iconic Congo Peafowl.
4. Visiting the Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Center
The Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Center, located near Kahuzi-Biega National Park, is one of the world’s top destinations for the preservation of Eastern Chimpanzees. Lwiro plays a crucial role in rescuing and rehabilitating primates affected by poaching and wildlife trafficking. It is home to a variety of species including 13 different monkey species, chimpanzees, porcupines, turtles, and parrots, offering an educational experience for visitors and opportunities for outreach and conservation efforts.
