Gorilla trekking safaris in Congo are the prime safari activity in the country because of the fact that Congo gorilla safari permits are cheaper than gorilla trekking safari Uganda and Rwanda gorilla safari permits.
Virunga National Park is the natural habitat to Mountain Gorillas in Congo whereas Kahuzi Biega National Park is the lowland gorilla habitat.
Many travelers wonder how much it could cost them to trek gorillas in Congo but then it is very affordable compared to the neighboring countries.
Before, you are allowed to undertake a Congo gorilla tour, each tourist needs a gorilla trekking permit. A Congo gorilla trekking permit is a card issued by the Virunga National Park Authority as a pass to trek a gorilla to any tourist above the age of 15 years spending a maximum of 1 hour in the presence of the gentle giants.
If you are asking, how much does it cost to go for gorilla trekking in Congo, here is a clear description of the Congo permit costs;
Congo Gorilla Trekking permit Costs
To trek a gorilla in Congo, non-nationals are required to pay USD 400 per person per trek.
Congolese residents pay USD 150 for Congo gorilla trekking permit per person, per trek.
USD 200 is paid for a single permit by Southern African Development Community nationals.
NOTE: The Congo gorilla trekking safari permit price is the lowest in the world. In the low season, permits can go for up to USD200 for non-nationals.
How To Get a Congo Gorilla Trekking Permit
Booking your permit prior is essential and this can best be done through a gorilla safari Congo tour operator.
A tour operator is more familiar with the system and can help with all the necessary bookings. The tour operator also offers all the other necessary information and updates about the park.
Safety Tips For Congo Safaris
On a Congo tour, be aware to avoid the places of North Kivu and Ituri provinces due to crime, Ebola and Kidnapping. Also, be cautious on visits to the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and the three Kasai provinces due to armed conflict.
Avoid being within areas of demonstrations like cities since you may become a victim of security arrests. Its safe to stay in Kinshasha since emergency services can easily be reached but avoid where locals warn you from not going to.
Use caution when walking or driving at night.
Always carry a copy of your passport and all other necessary identifications.
Consult with a doctor for preventive medical advice before Congo safaris.
Review the Crime and safety report on Congo and consult your local Congo tours operator for any latest news in the country before traveling to the Congo.
Avoid walking alone and displaying cash and other personal property of value. Its wise to travel with a tour Congo guide who is well conversant with the area and will ensure your property is not at risk.
Avoid taking photos in public, especially of the river, government buildings and the airport, which are viewed as places of national security, since doing such may lead to arrest.
Don’t trust anyone offering you help on the spot.
If confronted by members of the military or security forces, do not permit soldiers or police officers to enter your safari vehicles nor get into the vehicle of anyone purporting to be a security official. If confronted, remain courteous and calm and, if threatened, do not resist.
ALWAYS move with an experienced tour guide. They will help you avoid problems and keep you safe.
Best Congo Gorilla Safari Tours
Congo is such a pristine destination and for a safari to the country, here are top Congo safari packages, for great safari memories;
Gorilla trekking is indeed an ideal Africa safari activity that can also be undertaken by gorilla tour Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking tour on whether a short or long Uganda safaris or Rwanda safaris.
More posts for you
Over 50 excellent reviews on Safaribookings.