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Safaris in Virunga National Park
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Virunga National Park guide
Overview
Virunga National Park in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo was created in 1925 as Africa’s first national park. Covering about 7,800 km² along the borders with Uganda and Rwanda, it is also one of the most diverse protected areas on the continent, with glaciers on the Rwenzori Mountains, active volcanoes, savannah, lakes and lowland forest. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The park is managed by the Congolese wildlife authority, ICCN, in partnership with the Virunga Foundation. Its rangers work in extremely difficult conditions, and many have lost their lives protecting the park.
Wildlife
Virunga is best known for its mountain gorillas, which live on the forested slopes of the Virunga volcanoes. The park is also home to eastern lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, hippos on Lake Edward and the Rwindi plains, buffalo, lions and a remarkable variety of birds.
Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, has a lava lake in its crater that has drawn hikers from around the world.
Key wildlife
Best Time to Visit
Short answer: Jun–Sep. Also good: Dec–Feb.
Peak Good Quieter
When tourism is running, the drier months, from about June to September and December to February, offer the easiest trekking conditions. Rain is possible at any time in the mountains. Malaria is present, so speak to a travel clinic about prevention.
Getting There
When the park is open to visitors, access has usually been via Goma, often crossing overland from Kigali International Airport (KGL) in Rwanda. Arrangements depend entirely on the current security situation and on the park’s own operating status.
Fees & Access
Entrance fees
As of October 2026, gorilla trekking and Nyiragongo hikes are suspended until further notice, so no permits are on sale. When tourism resumes, permits and fees are published on the park’s official visitor website.
Gate hours
Tourism activities suspended until further notice (Oct 2026)
Health
Malaria risk: High. Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials before you go.
Fees and gate times change. Check the latest rates with the park authority before you travel.
Safety and Advisories
As of October 2026, the park’s gorilla treks and Nyiragongo hikes are suspended until further notice because of armed conflict and an Ebola outbreak in the region. Governments advise against all travel to North Kivu province. Check the park’s official visitor website and your own government’s current travel advisory for the Democratic Republic of the Congo before making any plans. We do not give travel advice beyond what official advisories say.
For mountain gorilla trekking elsewhere, see Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.
Location
Where is Virunga National Park?
Good to know
Virunga National Park FAQs
Is Virunga National Park open to tourists?
As of October 2026, gorilla trekking and Nyiragongo hikes are suspended until further notice because of armed conflict and an Ebola outbreak in the region. Check the park’s official visitor website for updates.
Is it safe to visit Virunga?
Governments advise against all travel to North Kivu province. Check your own government’s current travel advisory for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and follow it.
How much is a Virunga gorilla permit?
No permits are on sale while tourism is suspended. When it resumes, current prices are published on the park’s official visitor website.
Where else can I see mountain gorillas?
Mountain gorillas can also be tracked in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga national parks in Uganda.
Why is Virunga famous?
Created in 1925, it is Africa’s first national park and one of its most diverse, with mountain gorillas, active volcanoes, the Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Edward.
What is Mount Nyiragongo?
Nyiragongo is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, with a lava lake in its crater. Hikes are currently suspended.
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