Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest national park and one of the most biologically diverse protected areas on the continent. Located in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Virunga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic landscapes, endangered mountain gorillas, active volcanoes, and rich array of wildlife. It is part of the Albertine Rift, a region known for its remarkable biodiversity.

Brief History of Virunga National Park

Virunga was established in 1925 as Albert National Park by Belgian King Albert I, primarily to protect the mountain gorillas of the Virunga Mountains. It was the first national park in Africa and laid the groundwork for conservation across the continent.

In 1969, the park was renamed Virunga National Park. Over the decades, it has faced many challenges, including armed conflicts, poaching, and political instability. Despite these difficulties, dedicated conservation efforts have kept the park’s wildlife and natural beauty largely intact.

In 1979, Virunga was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its global ecological importance.

What to Do at Virunga National Park

1. Gorilla Trekking
Virunga is one of only three places in the world where you can trek to see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Treks start from Bukima and involve hiking through montane forests to reach one of the habituated gorilla families. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter.

2. Nyiragongo Volcano Hike
Mount Nyiragongo is one of the world’s most active volcanoes and home to a lava lake at its summit. A guided overnight hike offers:

A steep but rewarding trek

Camping on the crater rim

Stunning views of the boiling lava below

(Note: As of recent years, Nyiragongo hikes may be temporarily suspended due to volcanic activity—check for updates.)

3. Chimpanzee Habituation Experience
Visitors can participate in the chimpanzee habituation project in Rumangabo, where researchers are working to habituate a group of wild chimpanzees. This is a rare and intimate way to observe these intelligent primates.

4. Nature Walks and Bird Watching
Virunga boasts over 700 bird species, including:

Rwenzori turaco

African fish eagle

Narrow-tailed starling

Shelley’s crimsonwing (rare)

Guided walks allow you to explore wetlands, savannahs, and forests teeming with life.

5. Wildlife Viewing
In addition to gorillas and chimpanzees, Virunga is home to:

Elephants

Lions (in the savannah areas near Ishasha)

Hippos in Lake Edward and its channels

Okapi, bushbuck, giant forest hog, and more

How to Get to Virunga National Park

Via Goma (DRC):
The main access point is the city of Goma, located near the DRC-Rwanda border.

From Rwanda, you can fly into Kigali International Airport, then drive about 4–5 hours to the Goma–Gisenyi border.

After crossing into the DRC, Virunga National Park is just a short drive away.

Note: Entry into the park must be coordinated with Virunga National Park authorities, and visitors must obtain a pre-arranged visa and guided tour package.

By Air:
Private charter flights can also land at Goma Airport, but most travelers use Kigali as the main international gateway.

Accommodations at Virunga National Park

Virunga offers both luxury and eco-lodge experiences:

Inside or Near the Park:
Mikeno Lodge (Rumangabo): A luxury eco-lodge surrounded by forest, ideal for gorilla trekking and chimpanzee visits.

Bukima Tented Camp: Rustic charm with great views of Mount Mikeno and a base for gorilla treks.

Nyiragongo Summit Shelters: Basic huts used during the overnight volcano hike.

In Goma:
Several hotels and guesthouses, such as Hotel Cap Kivu, provide comfort before or after your park visit.

Best Time to Visit

The best months to visit Virunga are during the dry seasons:

June to September

December to February

These months offer the most favorable weather for trekking and hiking. The rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) can make trails muddy and visibility more limited, but the park remains open year-round.

Why Visit Virunga National Park?

To trek rare mountain gorillas in one of the most pristine forests in Africa

To climb an active volcano and witness a lava lake up close

To experience unspoiled wilderness and biodiversity hotspots

To support vital conservation and community efforts in a region rebuilding from conflict

To see Africa’s oldest national park and one of its most extraordinary protected areas

Virunga National Park is a wild, dramatic, and truly adventurous destination. For those seeking a unique and life-changing African experience, this park delivers encounters with both nature’s power and its incredible resilience.