Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.5, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Virunga National Park Tours & Experiences ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Blog Posts - [Blog](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/blog/) - August 25, 2002 Construction Of A Drystone Wall at Mikeno Sector By admin News December 13, 2025 Following the recent deforestation and cultivation of a large area in the Mikeno sector of the Virunga National Park, UNEP, WWF, IGCP, ... Read More + January 1, 2004 DR Congo Open for Gorilla Tracking By admin News - [Mount Tshiaberimu Buzzing with new Scientific Research](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/mount-tshiaberimu-buzzing-with-new-scientific-research/) - Over the past few weeks, Mount Tshiaberimu really has been buzzing as scientists from around the world carry out exciting research into both the mountain gorillas and a wide range of other wildlife living in this part of DR Congo. For example, an international team of researchers, including Dr Taranjit Kaur at Virginia Tech and - [Mukokya Parade highlights ladies’ support for Mt T’s gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/mukokya-parade-highlights-ladies-support-for-mt-ts-gorillas/) - Women, and mothers in particular, play a key role in helping communities around Mount Tshiaberimu thrive. And nothing illustrates their importance quite like Sagot, or Solidarity of Friends of Mountain Gorillas Tshiaberimu. Founded in 2005, this is a network of several grassroots development associations, among them Integration of Women in Development (IFED) and the Association - [First Female Ranger at Tshiaberimu](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/first-female-ranger-at-tshiaberimu/) - This is a message from Rebecca, a 23 year old ranger who has recently arrived at Tshiaberimu from ICCN’s local headquarters in Mutsora. I am Rebecca. I have a love of nature. I decided to become a park guard as I saw how the ‘rebellion’ was widely destroying the Virungas National Park. I have just - [Local community involvement in Tshiaberimu](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/local-community-involvement-in-tshiaberimu/) - Working with the local communities living around Mount Tshiaberimu is an extremely important part of our work to protect the gorillas and the forest. We help to build the capacity of the local people so that they can live in harmony with the forest and protect the habitat for the gorillas. I frequently visit local - [Health update from Tshiaberimu](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/health-update-from-tshiaberimu/) - During the last few days we have carried out a gorilla health monitoring visit at Tshiaberimu. Dr Jacques Iyanya and Dr Eddy Kambale from the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project (MGVP) led the mission and were joined by Dr Mavisi, a local vet who has been working with the project for some time, and Mr Odilon, - [Trouble in Muramba](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/trouble-in-muramba/) - Muramba is a village at the foot of Mount Tshiaberimu, found on the west coast of Lake Edward. Sadly, Muramba has many problems and is a big threat to the survival of the gorillas. The population density of this village is growing and growing and is having a negative impact on the ecological corridor. Encroachment - [Gorilla Dies in Tragic Accident](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/gorilla-dies-in-tragic-accident/) - It is with great pain that I have to announce the death of Musangania, a 5 year old gorilla from the Lusenge Family. Musangania was found dead near the camp of Burusi at 9 am on Saturday morning by the head of the monitoring team. This came as a complete shock to everyone at Mount - [Health Monitoring Training](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/health-monitoring-training/) - A few weeks ago the trackers and rangers at Mount Tshiaberimu took part in a four day training course at the Kalibina summit at Tshiabirimu. The training was facilitated by Dr. Gladys and Stephen Rubanga of Conservation Through Public Health under the financial support of ZSL and the Gorilla Organization. The training covered both theory - [Death of a Lion](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/death-of-a-lion/) - On 18 September, as we traveled from Mulango Patrol Post to Burusi Patrol Post, we received a phone call alerting us to the presence of a lion in the Nguli valley towards Vihyo village. The local population at Nguli had heard the roar of the lion and in the morning awoke to find that 13 - [Goodbye to Mwami Kalemire](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/goodbye-to-mwami-kalemire/) - sad news. On Thursday October 23 2008, Mwami Kalemire II, head of the chiefdom of Bashu, departed this world after a month in hospital. Mwami Kalemire was a valiant fighter for ICCN, he was a man of value, peace and reconciliation. Mwami Kalemire, Grand Chief of Nande, was also the leader who controls Mount Tshiaberimu. - [Miza Found and a Sanctuary for Orphans is Planned](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/miza-found-and-a-sanctuary-for-orphans-is-planned/) - The Virunga National Park website has released a video of Miza (Mutazimiza) the baby gorilla orphaned last year during the attack on the Kabirizi family, and star of our book Looking for Miza which is her story about how she survivied the ordeal. After 14 months of conflict it is a huge relief to see - [Villager Killed by Elephant Stealing Crops](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/villager-killed-by-elephant-stealing-crops/) - In the early hours of this morning a villager near the Gorilla Sector (near Bukima) was killed by a forest elephant. The elephant was trying to steal potatoes from the fields, and the villager was trying to scare him away. Innocent tells me that the man was hit with the trunk of the elephant and - [Remembering Macibiri, a Deceased Gorilla](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/about-gorillas/remembering-macibiri/) - Macibiri was one of the victims of the Rugendo Family massacre in July 2007. At the time of the massacre we did not find her body, but we found her remains 4 weeks later. I, Innocent, was personally was responsible for finding and collecting Macibiri’s bones. Here she is pictured on the right with 1 - [Remembering Neza](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/remembering-neza/) - Neza was killed during the July 2007 massacre. She was the mother of Bilali (watch this video tookof Bilali with her new infant Kakule in January 2009), Bahati and Noel - but despite motherhood retained a peaceful and calm temperament. She was recognisable by her big eyes, as you can see from the photo to - [Lulengo and his family found alive and well](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/lulengo-and-his-family-found-alive-and-well/) - Another great piece of news for you all! We have just seen and identified Lulengo and his family. You may remember that Lulengo, the Silverback, was last seen in August 2007 during the census and that at that time the family had 4 individuals, including Lulengo himself. He had managed to obtain a family after - [Remembering Senkwenkwe](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/about-gorillas/remembering-senkwenkwe/) - Senkwekwe – which is the name of a bird that is known to sing in the morning - was a very calm Silverback who took good care of his whole family. He was also very strong, as Silverbacks tend to be, so he did engage in fighting when necessary with other Silverbacks. Senkwekwe and his - [Gorillas with a Bad Habit: Raiding Crops](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/gorillas-with-a-bad-habit-raiding-crops/) - Since the morning of the gorilla massacre in July 2007, the wanderings of the Rugendo family has continued to worry us. Unfortunately, even though the family has a new leader, after Senkekwe was killed, they still move very close to the edge of the park, often moving into people’s fields and eating their crops. This - [Silverback Gorilla Destroying Crops Re-Located Back to Forest](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/silverback-gorilla-destroying-crops-re-located-back-to-forest/) - The Solitary Silverback Gorilla Mukunda had been ravaging the crops of local villagers living around Virunga’s Gorilla Sector for two months. We were starting to fear for his life, as his systematic crop-raiding destroyed the livelihoods of the local communities who depend upon their agricultural produce to survive. The Rangers had to take action to - [Human Gorilla Protectors now Patrolling for Snares and other Threats](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/human-gorilla-protectors-now-patrolling-for-snares-and-other-threats/) - The HUGOs - which comes from Human & Gorilla Protection - are hard at work. These men - 40 of them in total - are the Community Scouts that Emmanuel blogged about in February, and form part of a new intiative to remove snares in the Gorilla Sector of Virunga. This decision was taken if - [Angry Villagers Slay Buffalo](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/angry-villagers-slay-buffalo/) - Two buffalo – a female and a male – have been speared and macheted to death near Jomba on the edge of the Gorilla Sector by villagers angry at the animals for eating and destroying their crops. We have often blogged about the conflict between humans and wildlife around Virunga, and specifically around the Gorilla - [Mukunda’s Return to Congo from Rwanda](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/mukunda-return-to-congo-from-rwanda/) - The animals that live in the Mikeno Sector have made the last three months difficult for the Rangers. When peace returned to the park the people living close to it went back to their normal daily lives, to their fields, and to their work as farmers. Their crops have proved enormously attractive to Mikeno’s elephants, - [116 Elephant Tusks Seized in Congo](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/116-elephant-tusks-seized-in-congo/) - 116 elephant tusks have been seized by authorities in Congo, near the town of Kisangani – the third largest city in the country that sits right on the edge of the vast Congo forests and is a major commercial hub. This seizure – that you can read a bit more about in the AP article - [Journey to the Center of the Planet](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/journey-to-the-center-of-the-planet/) - Last week, the BCC aired a documentary where one of the Top Gear presenters, Richard Hammond, descends into Nyiragongo volcano crater in a story that tries to answer the question, “How does the Earth work?” Check it out HERE. BBC’s description of the program: “Using a giant 3D virtual Earth, Richard peels back the layers - [How to Habituate](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/how-to-habituate/) - “Habituate” is a common word used around Virunga, but many of our readers don’t know what this word means or how the habituation process works. Simply put, the word means getting wild animals used to being around people. Virunga, for instance, has habituated gorillas and non-habituated gorillas. The chimpanzees of Tongo (west of park headquarters) - [Saving a Hippo](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/saving-a-hippo/) - Many big and small incidents happen in the park daily. Some might give you a better picture of what the staff and rangers deal with, so we will be blogging more about the stories that happen all over the park. Because it is high on the priority list to keep our animals safe, today you - [New Mountain Gorilla Baby in the Humba Family](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/new-mountain-gorilla-baby-in-the-humba-family/) - We are happy to announce the birth of a new baby for the Humba gorilla family, born on the 7th of August. This is the first baby for 9 year-old mother Kanyalire, a female who migrated from the Kabirizi family to Humba family about one year ago. Kanyalire’s history includes the death of her mother, - [Congo’s Charistmatic Silverback Buhanga Dies, Age 23](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/congos-charistmatic-silverback-buhanga-dies-age-23/) - Buhanga, the 23 year old solitary Silverback of Congo’s Gorilla Sector, has died. He was found yesterday near Gatovu patrol post, his favorite haunt, lying face down in a stream struggling to breath. Innocent, Dr Magda and the Rangers were with him when he took his last breaths some 30 minutes later. Today Dr Jan - [No Summer Tourism for the Virunga National Park](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/no-summer-tourism-for-the-virunga/) - Unfortunately the situation at the Virungas National Park here in DR Congo still doesn’t look very good. As you might know, the last couple of months have been very difficult since a militia called M23 occupied the territory, threatening the security of the mountain gorillas living in the park. The situation has degraded further now - [Gorilla Missing in the Mist!](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/gorilla-missing-in-the-mist/) - To begin with, the entire staff and I would like to wish all of our supporters a Happy New Year from Mt. Tshiaberimu, in the DR Congo! I was not able to write to you earlier this year as we are still working very hard on finding our lost Silverback Tsongo, from the Kipura troop. - [Construction Of A Drystone Wall at Mikeno Sector](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/construction-of-a-drystone-wall-at-mikeno-sector/) - Following the recent deforestation and cultivation of a large area in the Mikeno sector of the Virunga National Park, UNEP, WWF, IGCP, the EU and FZS released emergency funds to support the ICCN with the construction of a dry stone wall to help restore the integrity of the park boundary. This report brings you the - [Regional Efforts to Tackle Human-wildlife Conflicts](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/regional-efforts-to-tackle-human-wildlife-conflicts/) - Mountain Gorillas, hippos and various bird species are some of the most common tourist attractions in Virunga National Park. The well protected Agashya family of mountain Gorillas frolick in dense undergrowth at the Virunga National park. The park covers approximately790, 000 hectares of forest in the three countries of Rwanda, Uganda the Democratic Republic of - [Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Vs Rwanda or DR Congo](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/adventures/gorilla-trekking-in-uganda-vs-rwanda-or-dr-congo/) - Gorilla trekking is a popular wildlife activity in East Africa, drawing adventurers to the dense forests of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Each country offers a unique experience with its own set of advantages, challenges, and distinct features. This comprehensive overview will - [A gorilla vet pays a visit to Mount Tshiaberimu](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/a-gorilla-vet-pays-a-visit-to-mount-tshiaberimu/) - As I’m sure you know, the last few months have been tough here for us in DR Congo. Fighting and general instability made it hard for us to carry on working as normal – which is why I’ve not updated this blog for a little while… But, the good news is that, while times were - [DR Congo Open for Gorilla Tracking](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/dr-congo-open-for-gorilla-tracking/) - The first steps were taken Jan 2004 on the Congo side of the Virunga Mountains, to once again enter into the lucrative tourist market for gorilla tracking. During the Congo wars to expel the late dictator Mobutu and the subsequent power struggles, and partly caused by Hutu militias responsible for the Rwanda genocide in 1994, - [Silverback Gorilla Bageni Dies](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/silverback-gorilla-bageni-dies/) - Yesterday, young silverback Bageni from the Kabirizi family lost a battle with solitary silverback Mukunda and died. Two weeks earlier he was involved in another fight that left him with cuts and bruises, but nothing too serious. We wanted to keep an eye on him, however, and so some rangers were there on the day - [Chimp Habituation in Tongo](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/adventures/chimp-habituation-in-tongo/) - “Habituate” is a common word used around Virunga, but many of our readers don’t know what this word means or how the habituation process works. Simply put, the word means getting wild animals used to being around people. Virunga, for instance, has habituated gorillas and non-habituated gorillas. The chimpanzees of Tongo (west of park headquarters) - [Key Members of Baby Mountain Gorilla Traffickers Arrested](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/key-members-of-baby-mountain-gorilla-traffickers-arrested/) - Congo Wildlife Authorities arrested two men believed to be key members of a baby mountain gorilla trafficking group following an undercover investigation by Virunga National Park rangers and other Congolese government security services. The two men, arrested in Goma yesterday, have been charged with illegal trafficking an endangered species. The operation followed the recovery of - [Baby Gorilla from Virunga National Park Confiscated from Poachers](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/baby-gorilla-from-virunga-national-park-confiscated-from-poachers/) - Late Sunday night, August 7, a group of Congolese and Rwandan men were arrested by Rwandan police as they attempted to smuggle an infant gorilla into Rwanda from neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). According to the poachers, the gorilla had been captured near the Bukima area of Virunga National Park, which makes it likely - [Monitoring the Virunga Mountain Gorilla Families](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/monitoring-the-virunga-mountain-gorilla-families/) - In the last few weeks, the rangers and I have been working hard to do a complete assessment of our six habituated gorilla families. We included six new rangers in the survey process for training purposes as many will be deployed in the gorilla sector eventually. Some gorilla families are much easier to access than - [Mikeno Silverbacks Battle for Supremacy](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/mikeno-silverbacks-battle-for-supremacy/) - Silverback Kabirizi’s status as the dominant silverback of his group looked to be reaffirmed a few weeks ago, but silverback Bageni’s pursuit of dominance has proven to be unrelenting. According to Southern Sector Warden, Innocent Mburanumwe, and his second in command, Sekibibi Bareke, Bageni has once again challenged Kabirizi’s rule over Virunga’s largest mountain gorilla - [Keeping a Close Eye on Virunga’s Lowland Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/keeping-a-close-eye-on-virungas-lowland-gorillas/) - Virunga’s rangers and the Gorilla Doctors continue to closely monitor the park’s seven lowland gorillas living at Mt. Tsiaberimu. As some of you know, this small population is made up of two groups, Katsabara and Kipura, and their extremely low numbers put them at great risk of dying out. The birth of a baby in - [Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Virunga](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/adventures/gorilla-trekking-safaris-in-virunga/) - Virunga National Park is located in a region that is often troubled by unrest. In the last three years, the southern sector of Virunga National Park (gorillas and volcano) has been considered safe for visitors with over a 100 tourists visiting these sites every month. It is Africa’s oldest national park, a designated UNESCO World - [Silverback Bageni’s Wounds Healing](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/silverback-bagenis-wounds-healing/) - Last week, Dr. Eddy and Dr. Martin of MGVP to check on silverback Bageni and his family. As you will remember, Bageni got in a bad fight with silverback Mukunda and suffered some deep wounds to his arm. Fortunately, Bageni’s wounds did not become infected and they are showing good progress. We observed him to - [Rangers Arrest Three for Killing Bushbuck](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/rangers-arrest-three-for-killing-bushbuck/) - Virunga’s Head Warden of the Southern Sector, Innocent Mburanumwe, recently received a tip from someone in the Biruma sector of the park (7 km from Virunga HQ in Rumangabo) that three individuals were illegally hunting bushbuck with their dogs. Despite the insecurity caused by the presence of FDLR (who’s command structure is made up of - [Rangers Search for Gorilla Families as Fighting Decreases](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/rangers-search-for-gorilla-families-as-fighting-decreases/) - After holding our patrol post at Bukima during the worst of the fighting, we finally got the period of calm we needed to check on our mountain gorilla families. On March 16th, when the heavy fighting shifted to Kibumba (which is still very close by), we began our search. By March 19th, we managed to - [Aerial Geographic Information System (GIS)/Photographic Capability Needed to Protect Virunga](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/aerial-gis-needed-to-protect-virunga/) - Virunga National Park has an urgent need to increase its geographic information system (GIS) capability in order to better protect wildlife and habitat. The greatest need at the moment is to equip the park’s Cessna 182 surveillance aircraft with a GIS system that is able to simultaneously photograph and “geo tag” the exact location of - [Gato’s New Baby - Humba Family](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/gatos-new-baby-humba-family/) - A few days ago, I reported the birth of a baby in the Humba family, but at the time, I wasn’t certain about the identity of the mother. I can now tell you the mother is Gato. Another ranger, a HUGO (a community volunteer), and I located the Humba family in the Bizenge area of - [New Baby from the Mapuwa Family](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/new-baby-from-the-mapuwa-family/) - It is with great joy that we announce the birth of a new baby into the Mapuwa family. Sekibibi and a team of fellow rangers were monitoring the family, which is currently living at Nyarutembe near the Bharati patrol post, when they noticed that a female was carrying a newborn baby. At first, the team - [Young Gorilla Found Alone 2 Kilometers Outside Virunga NP](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/young-gorilla-found-alone-2-kilometers-outside-virunga-np/) - A few nights ago we received a call from the head of Bikenge patrol post, who told us a very young male gorilla was found alone in a cornfield two kilometers outside the park in the village of Kasura. Our rangers ended up spending the night in the cornfield protecting the baby because they needed - [Buffalo Killing](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/buffalo-killing/) - A few days ago our deputy warden of the southern sector, Sekibibi, received a message that a buffalo had been slaughtered in Kahunga, a troublesome wildlife corridor where some of our elephants have been killed. Sekibibi took seven of our rangers to the site to collect the poachers and burn the meat, but they were - [Helping Those Who Risk All To Protect Virunga](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/helping-those-who-risk-all-to-protect-virunga/) - The recent attack on a park’s vehicle causing the death of two more rangers is yet another reminder of the price rangers and their families pay to protect Virunga for the benefit of us all. Rangers put themselves in harm’s way on a daily basis for what the rest of us pay for a cup - [Virunga Rangers Attend Special Training in Rwanda](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/virunga-rangers-attend-special-training-in-rwanda/) - Two Virunga National Park Rangers Bareke and Butsitsi have attended Special Training on gorilla conservation in Rwanda. With all the daunting challenges faced by Virunga’s rangers, working smart, as well as hard, is key. Covering 7,800 square kilometers of park is no easy task under any circumstances and especially not with a small ranger force. - [Effort to Save Virunga’s Disappearing Grauer’s Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/effort-to-save-virungas-disappearing-grauers-gorillas/) - The fate of Virunga’s eastern lowland Grauer’s gorillas continues to hang in the balance. In 2008, their population was a mere 22 individuals and today that number stands at six. The remaining six are comprised of a habituated group of four and a group of two - an adult female and a silverback. Virunga’s Chief - [Baby Mountain Gorilla in the Rugendo Family Killed](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/baby-mountain-gorilla-in-the-rugendo-family-killed/) - It is with sadness that I must report the death a Janja’s baby, Burungani. A week ago, we received news the Rugendo family was eating maize and sorghum crops outside the park near Sarambwe. Such behavior puts the mountain gorillas in grave danger of being injured or killed by angry villagers, so rangers from the - [July 31st is World Ranger Day!](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/july-31st-is-world-ranger-day/) - Today is World Ranger Day and we hope you will join us in celebrating the brave rangers around the world who risk their lives every day to protect the planet’s endangered plants and animals. Sadly, today is also a day to commemorate the many rangers that have given their lives for conservation. Rangers in Virunga - [Ranger Killed in Ambush of the Museya Patrol Post](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/ranger-killed-in-ambush-of-the-museya-patrol-post/) - I am very sorry to report that another member of our ranger staff has been killed. Ranger Kasereka Kipako, age 34, was ambushed at his patrol post while his fellow rangers were out on a morning patrol. We are still investigating the incident, but the evidence points to Mai-Mai militia being the perpetrators of the - [Virunga’s First Hydroelectric Plant Online!](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/virungas-first-hydroelectric-plant-online/) - Virunga National Park has brought the rural community of Mutwanga its first electrical grid. If you have been reading this blog over the last two years, you’ve witnessed the massive amount of work that has gone into this project. Well, construction is now complete, water is flowing down the race channel and spinning the turbines, - [Baby Gorilla Born in Bageni Group](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/baby-gorilla-born-in-bageni-group/) - It is with great joy that I announce a birth in the Bageni group. This latest addition was brought into the world by Karibu - with a little help from silverback Bageni. My rangers and I have not been able to get close enough to determine the gender of the baby, so we have yet - [The Struggle to Protect Congo’s Mountain Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/the-struggle-to-protect-congos-mountain-gorillas/) - I was in Goma on the night of 22 July. Emmanuel de Merode was in Bukima with members of my team, and Scott and Brent of Newsweek. They heard shots at around 8pm. The next day, a patrol went in from the Bikenge patrol post and quickly found the bodies of three females. It was - [The Gorilla Baby Boom Continues](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/the-gorilla-baby-boom-continues/) - Another newborn baby found in the Kabirizi group, bringing the total to 4 newborns identified in this group alone. This is quite unprecedented and brings the growth rate of this family close to 30% a year. The natural growth for a healthy gorilla populations is more like 6%. So we’re shocked and delighted at this - [Ivory Traffickers Arrested in Goma](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/ivory-traffickers-arrested-in-goma/) - After a month of intelligence gathering and undercover work a team of our rangers moved in on an ivory trafficking ring in Goma yesterday. The outcome was successful with ivory seized and two key traffickers arrested. The operation proved incredibly difficult, requiring sensitive coordination on both sides of the battlefront. The plan was to carry - [Gorilla Massacre Anniversary](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/gorilla-massacre-anniversary/) - GORILLA MASSACRE ANNIVERSARY: CONGOLESE RANGERS COMMEMORATE 2 YEARS SINCE TRAGEDY AND LAUNCH APPEAL On the morning of 22 July 2007, Rangers in Virunga National Park found the bodies of four mountain gorillas killed in an execution style attack. The remains of another gorilla in the group were found 3 weeks later, with her infant missing, - [Split in the Rugendo Group](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/split-in-the-rugendo-group/) - Last week I got word from the Bikenge patrol post that the Rugendo group had split up into two. The Rangers said that the silverback Pili-Pili and a juvenile had left the other gorillas and traveled far into the bamboo forests near the Rwandan border towards Jomba. More than 6 hours walk away from them - [Bariyanga, An Adult Gorilla Found Dead](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/bariyanga-an-adult-gorilla-found-dead/) - Bariyanga, an adult gorilla in Virunga National Park was found dead. Bariyanga was an almost adult blackback and weighed in at 70 kilos. Bariyanga was found lying on his side surrounded by broken branches. It wasn’t at first clear if there had been a fight or if Bariyanga has simply been unlucky and fallen while - [Rugendo Family Found](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/rugendo-family-found/) - We have some excellent news. We have finally seen the Rugendo Family, our most habituated group of gorillas in Congo, but also the most traumatized after the July 2007 massacre. I am extremely happy to report that the family now numbers 9 individuals - up from 5. The family still has the same 5 individuals - [Emmanuel Working to re-establish a Ranger Presence in Virunga](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/emmanuel-working-to-re-establish-a-ranger-presence-in-virunga/) - Emmanuel is currently at Rumangabo with Pierre, Eddy and Brent Stirton, the photographer who took the pictures of the July 2007 massacre. He is at the park HQ working to find a way for the Rangers to get back into the park. The Rangers are desperate to get back to work and protect the flora - [New Volcano Eruption Trek](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/new-volcano-eruption-trek/) - On the evening of 6 November, Nyamulagira volcano erupted in a spectacular display of fire, ash, and lava, lighting up the sky in bright orange. By day five, warden Emmanuel de Merode, and Tourism Director Cai Tjeenk Willink had organized a new trek for tourists to the eruption site following a safety approval from volcanologist - [Charcoal Production: #1 Threat to Mountain Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/charcoal-production-threatens-mountain-gorillas/) - Find out why illegal charcoal production in Virunga National Park has become the #1 threat to the survival of the mountain gorilla — and most importantly, what you can do to stop it! Charcoal: The Mountain Gorillas’ Biggest Threat The mountain gorilla is in a fight for its very existence - and time is short. - [Re-launching Patrols in the Gorilla Sector of Virunga](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/re-launching-patrols-in-the-gorilla-sector-of-virunga/) - Rangers must re-enter the Gorilla Sector to assess the status of DRC’s Mountain Gorillas. Rangers must be prepared to re-enter the Gorilla Sector in Virunga and re-start patrols to protect the Mountain Gorillas. Rebels took control of this 250km2 area on 6 September 2007 - and the plight of the gorillas remains unknown. Rangers at - [Rebuilding Rumangabo School for Future Gorilla Guardians](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/rebuilding-rumangabo-school-for-future-gorilla-guardians/) - The reconstruction of the primary school at Virunga HQ is underway to provide a better education for Virunga’s children The primary school at Rumangabo was originally built during the colonial era. Civil war and the passage of time have reduced the buildings to rubble or a shadow of their former self and children are now - [‘Virunga’ Documentary Nominated for an Oscar!](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/virunga-documentary-nominated-for-an-oscar/) - The Virunga Movie is by surprise on the list of Oscar nominees that has finally broken in the media.This documentary that was released by Netflix, has been nominated in the Best Documentary category. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the film, Virunga was released in November exclusively on Netflix, with the help of - [New Twin Baby Gorillas Born in Virunga National Park](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/new-twin-baby-gorillas-born-in-virunga/) - Despite the coronavirus pandemic, the entire tourism sector and Conservationists have been overfilled by joy as the Virunga National Park welcomes twin baby gorillas. While game rangers where carrying out inspections in the tropical rain forest of the Virunga National Park, they spotted an adult female gorilla from the Nyakamwe gorilla family group holding her - [Visit Congo Gorillas and Hike the Rwenzoris](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/adventures/visit-congo-gorillas-and-hike-the-rwenzoris/) - A combined Congo gorilla and Rwenzori trek is a great opportunity to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas and climb the glaciated Rwenzori mountain – the highest in Uganda and Congo and the third highest on the African continent. The safari starts from Virunga mountains national park which is in the eastern part of Democratic Republic - [Two Virunga Park Rangers Killed for Mountain Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/two-virunga-park-rangers-killed-for-mountain-gorillas/) - A Rebel attack in Eastern Congo has left two rangers killed on a line of duty of protecting the mountain gorillas. The attack took place in Virunga National Park, one of the world’s last sanctuaries for the endangered mountain gorillas. The park officials confirmed the death of these two heroes and reported that third ranger - [Virunga Celebrates Births of 7 Baby Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/virunga-celebrates-births-of-7-baby-gorillas/) - Virunga’s rangers couldn’t be happier with the way 2018 has begun. The first of seven births happened on January 7th, when Sebutimbiri of the Mapuwa family gave birth to a boy. Several days later four more babies were born within five days of each other. With January in the books, rangers understandably thought they had - [3 Virunga Rangers Killed in Action](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/virunga-rangers-killed-in-action/) - We deeply regret to announce that three Virunga National Park rangers were just killed in action. The incident took place today, 13 March, in the Park's Rwindi section, in the area's ongoing conflict. Park Director Emmanuel de Merode and section chief Innocent Mutazimiza returned from the scene this evening. We will post more details once - [Senkwekwe from Deceased Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/senkwekwe-from-deceased-gorillas/) - Senkwekwe – which is the name of a bird that is known to sing in the morning - was a very calm Silverback who took good care of his whole family. He was also very strong, as Silverbacks tend to be, so he did engage in fighting when necessary with other Silverbacks. Senkwekwe and his - [Anti-Charcoal Operation Needs Funding!](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/anti-charcoal-operation-needs-funding/) - We need your help. The charcoal trade inside our park forests must be eradicated and this requires the funding of several anti-charcoal operations needed soon. The illegal charcoal business is one of the greatest issues Virunga faces, largely kept in place by FDLR Rwandan militia, and directly connected to the protection of the mountain gorillas. - [Mountain Gorilla Census: Population Increases by 26.3%](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/mountain-gorilla-population-increases/) - The results of the census that was conducted in the spring of 2010 show that the number of Mountain Gorillas living in the tri-national forested area of which Virunga forms a part, has increased by 26.3% over the last seven years - an average growth rate of 3.7% per annum. Of the 480 Mountain Gorillas - [Briquette Production: an Alternative Source of Fuel around Virunga](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/briquette-production-an-alternative-source-of-fuel-around-virunga/) - A big hello to those of you who know me - and I look forward to reading your comments! And to those of you who don’t my name is Virginia and I have just re-joined the team here in Virunga to continue working on the Briquette Project - one of the most important pilot projects - [Hidden Giants- The Elephants of Mikeno](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/hidden-giants-the-elephants-of-mikeno/) - Last night the patrol post at Bukima was visited by a herd of elephants. It was very dark and we could not see them, but the sounds of them trumpeting and crashing through the forest was impressive. We see a lot of signs left behind by elephants in the Mikeno Sector, but we almost never - [Lesenjina Gorilla Still Missing in Virunga Park](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/lesenjina-gorilla-still-missing-in-virunga-park/) - MISSING SINCE JUNE 2007 Lesenjina was the name of the first female Environment Minister in our country during the Mobutu era. Lesenjina was actually quite an aggressive gorilla – when we tried to get close she would grunt as if you show her disapproval. Same would happen if we approached any of her children. Lesenjina - [Kangugo Gorilla Still Missing](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/about-gorillas/kangugo-gorilla-still-missing/) - MISSING SINCE AUGUST 2007 Kangungo likes to pester his fellow Blackbacks and the youngsters in the large family. He simply loves to play and often pounds his hands on the ground as part of the fun. He likes to play with Bonane and Kitagenda. Kangungo is the name of a hill at Bukima – and - [Gasusa Gorilla Still Missing Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/about-gorillas/gasusa-gorilla-still-missing-gorillas/) - Gasusa is a good playmate and fools around with pretty much everyone. He rolls around in the undergrowth for hours on end with other gorillas. Gasusa’s lost all the toes on his right foot when he was caught in a trap at the end of 2005. It all happened very quickly. I was on patrol - [The Missing Gorillas of Virunga](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/the-missing-gorillas-of-virunga/) - Gorillas sometimes go missing. They may have been lured away by an unhabituated family. Or they may have been caught up in an interaction and simply got lost. We continue to look for all missing gorillas, constantly keeping an eye out in case, just by chance, we happen to see them again. Mountain Gorillas can - [Karateka the Solitary Gorilla of Virunga Park](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/about-gorillas/karateka-the-solitary-gorilla-of-virunga-park/) - Karateka is a very calm Silverback. He’s also very distinctive and not just because of his noseprint. His left ear is torn and the third finger of his right hand is partly missing. This last injury was sustained during the late 1980s when he caught his finger in a metal snare - the lack of - [The Baby Boom Continues in Virunga Park](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/the-baby-boom-continues-in-virunga-park/) - Another newborn baby found in the Kabirizi group, bringing the total to 4 newborns identified in this group alone. This is quite unprecedented and brings the growth rate of this family close to 30% a year. The natural growth for a healthy gorilla populations is more like 6%. So we’re shocked and delighted at this - [Search for Missing Mountain Gorillas to Begin in Virunga Park After 2 Months of War](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/search-for-missing-mountain-gorillas-to-begin/) - Despite of the ongoing civil war in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the government authorities and M23 rebel commanders have authorized the park’s rangers to search for the missing gorilla families in rebel-held territory in the Mountain Gorilla Sector of Congo’s Virunga National Park. On Tuesday 24 July, a team of 45 rangers will - [Congo Blocks Virunga Oil Exploration](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/congo-blocks-virunga-oil-exploration/) - Following mounting pressure from conservation organizations, the UK’s Soco International has been blocked from searching for oil in the Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest NP and home to the endangered Mountain gorilla. - [What to Know Before Trekking Nyiragongo Volcano](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/tips/know-before-trekking-nyiragongo/) - Most of the travelers visiting mount Nyiragongo, ask several questions before they visit the place. This is what you should know before the hike. How to Apply Congo Visa and Border Crossing? As it is a requirement to enter any country in the world you must have a Visa, for all travelers to Democratic Republic - [Virunga's Widows Sewing Workshop has Opened!](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/virungas-widows-sewing-workshop-has-opened/) - Virunga National Park in the Congo DRC is Africa's oldest national park and home to a quarter of the world's mountain gorillas, and while in this park do not miss to visit Nyiragongo for the amazing hiking and this hike takes one day ascending and one day descending and on top you take an overnight - [Nyiragongo Volcano Brings Rich Soils But Eruption Threat](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/nyiragongo-volcano-brings-rich-soils-but-eruption-threat/) - Situated in Goma town in the Virunga National Park, Mount Nyiragongo is an active stratovolcano with an elevation of 3,470 meters (11,380 ft) in the associated with the Albertine Rift Nyiragongo. The volcano is active in that the last eruption happened 14 years ago but signs of another eruption are showing meaning that another eruption is - [Congo Militias Kill Two Rangers in Virunga](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/militias-kill-two-rangers-in-virunga/) - Militia groups in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have killed two park rangers in one of the world's last sanctuaries for the endangered mountain gorilla, the park said on Monday. The third ranger is missing after the attacks on Saturday in Virunga National Park, Africa's oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Virunga ## Pages - [Home](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/) - Complete Guide to Virunga National Park Welcome to the Virunga National Park Guide, a complete resource for visitors looking for information about the Virunga National Park, in Eastern Congo. This website is equipped with information, maps, guides, photos and links to some of the best resources to help you plan your trip to the Virunga - [Mount Nyiragongo Trekking](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-do/mount-nyiragongo-trekking/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Situated in the Virunga National Park, Mount Nyiragongo is one of the most Africa’s most exciting and rewarding hiking experiences for travelers going on Congo safaris. It is rising majestically to an altitude of 3470m overlooking the Virungas National Park and associated Albertine Rift. The mountain is a spectacular stratovolcano that hosts one of - [Mount Nyamulagira](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/mountains/mount-nyamulagira/) - Mount Nyamulagira, standing at 3,058 meters above sea level, remains one of the most volcanically active formations anywhere in Africa. It is located within Virunga National Park, in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, approximately 25 kilometres north of Goma. Unlike the steep, conical structure of its neighbour Nyiragongo, Nyamulagira is a broad basaltic shield volcano, known for frequent - [Rwenzori Mountains](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/mountains/rwenzori-mountains/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Also called the rainmaker, Rwenzori Mountains stand at a height of 5109m above sea level making them the third highest mountains on the African continent after Kilimanjaro and Kenya and then the highest block mountains on the continent since the other two mountains are volcanic. The mountain stretches between the border of Uganda and - [Munyaga Family](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/gorilla-families/munyaga/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]There are three Silverbacks in the Munyaga Family – Mawazo, Kadogo and Kasole. Mawazo is the leader but the family retains the name of the original leader and the founder of the family – the absent Silverback Munyaga. About the Munyaga Family In 2007, before rebels drove the Rangers from the park, the Munyaga - [Rugendo Family](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/gorilla-families/rugendo/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]The Rugendo family is the most habituated family of Mountain Gorillas in Virunga as it was the first one to have contact with humans on a regular basis in 1986. It is also however the most traumatized and brutalized, after several members of the group were massacred in July 2007, including the leader Senkwekwe - [Kabirizi Family](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/gorilla-families/kabirizi/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]If you have ever had the chance to see him, you will never forget. Kabirizi is our least habituated Mountain Gorilla Silverback in the Mikeno Sector, and the leader of over 30 individuals. He has the largest family by far in the sector, with lots of babies and infants. About the Kabirizi Family Kabirizi - [Mount Tshiaberimu](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/places/mount-tshiaberimu/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Mt Tshiaberimu Conservation Project A small population of Eastern gorillas, once believed to be their own sub-species, Gorilla rex pygmalion, live within Congo’s Virunga National Park, on the steep slopes of Mt Tshiaberimu. At 2,900 m, Mt Tshiaberimu, or ‘Mountain of the Spirits’, is the highest point on the western escarpment of the Albertine - [Best Time to Visit](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/about-congo/best-time-to-visit/) - Planning to take part in gorilla safari adventure in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) but you do not know when it is favorable or the best time to travel? When you think of a safari to any destination in Africa, first you need to be aware of when to get to that dream destination - [Park Information](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/park-information/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]The park is Africa’s oldest national park, established in 1925, with a size of over 7800 Square Kilometres. Because of its features, it was classified as a World Heritage Site in 1979, has become known for its mountain gorillas. Virunga National Park covers approximately 7,800 square kilometres in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, - [Tour Operators](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/tour-operators/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]There are a few tour operators operating to the Virunga National Park. Here we bring to you a list of the best tour operators offering gorilla safaris in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Tour Operator Listing African Jungle Adventures Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256 772 561508 Email: info@rwandagorillasafaris.com Website: www.rwandagorillasafaris.com Africa Tours Adventure Garden City, - [Things to See](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-see/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Virunga National park is very reach in biodiversity and has a lot to offer in terms of tourist attractions. The park is internationally known and recognized for its great attractions and biological diversity. The 7,800-square-kilometre park contains rare species of animals including the critically endangered mountain gorillas only found in three countries in the - [Places of Interest](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/places/) - There are several places of interest in Virunga National Park. The Nyiragongo Volcano and Its Lava Lake Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most active stratovolcanoes, dominates Virunga’s volcanic landscape with its imposing summit and persistent activity. Rising to an elevation of 3,470 meters, this volcano is best known for housing the world’s largest permanent lava - [Virunga Wildlife](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-see/virunga-wildlife/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]The wildlife diversity in this massif is just awesome and next to none on the continent of Africa partly due to its proximity to the rich Albertine region. According to a comprehensive survey about the wildlife diversity in this region in 2004, it was revealed that are 258 bird species including over 20 endemics - [Gorilla Trekking](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-do/gorilla-trekking/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Virunga national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the only four national parks in the whole world that host the estimated population of about 900 mountain gorillas! Remember this population is distributed into two; the population that live in the Virungas and the one in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The - [Tourist Safety](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/travel-planner/tourist-safety/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Virunga National Park is located in a region that is often troubled by unrest. In the last three years, the southern sector of Virunga National Park (gorillas and volcano) has been considered safe for visitors with over a 100 tourists visiting these sites every month. The Rwenzori mountains are also open for tourists and - [Chimpanzee Tracking](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-do/chimpanzee-tracking/) - Besides the mountain gorillas, the Virunga Mountains are home to a good population of chimpanzees. Within the Virunga National Par, you can visit the Tongo Chimps on a guided walk. Chimpanzee watching is one of the interesting primates safaris in East and Central Africa. Visitors can go and look for these animals in the dense - [Bird Watching](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-do/bird-watching/) - The Virunga National Park is one of the most interesting birding destinations in Africa, and obviously a must visit place for tourists interesting in seeing a variety of exceptional bird species. This National Park is located in the eastern side of the Democratic Republic of Congo and extends from the Rwenzori Mountains (in the North) - [Chimpanzee Habituation](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-do/chimpanzee-habituation/) - Chimpanzee Habituation is one of the amazing primate safari adventures not to miss in the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This exciting adventure is a moving experience since you will get up-close and personal with the chimpanzees, our closest cousins; History of Chimpanzee Habituation in Congo Chimpanzee trekking in Congo in the - [Climate](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/park-information/climate/) - The weather conditions of Virunga National park is mostly humid with temperatures going as high as 25 degrees Celsius and as low as 5 degrees Celsius. - [Getting There](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/getting-there/) - Virunga National Park is located in Eastern DRC on the border with Uganda and Rwanda covering an area of 7,800 sq km. To enter into Democratic Republic of Congo on your gorilla trekking safari to Virunga National Park, you must have DRC visa, passport and yellow fever vaccination card. DRC is accessible by both air - [History](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/park-information/history/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest park established in 1925 as Albert National Park mainly to protect and conserve mountain gorillas when its borders were marked, under Belgian rule to promote sustainable tourism development. The park was later after independence in 1969 renamed Virunga national park to signify the chain of 8 volcanic mountains - [Things to Do](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-do/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]There are various things to do in Virunga National Park. From gorilla trekking to climbing active volcano, there are many adventure activities that you can enjoy on a tour within the Virunga National Park. The Southern part is the most accessible and visited by tourists who come come from all over the world for - [Bambuti Tours](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-do/bambuti-tours/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]The Bambuti are also an indigenous group that are said to have migrated from Ituri forest of the Congo River basin. The Bambuti are nomadics who moved from place to place hunting and gathering wild animals, so they moved from Congo and settled in western Uganda in the districts of Bundibugyo and Kasese. The - [Best Time to Visit Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/travel-planner/best-time-to-visit-gorillas/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]What disappoints most travelers on an African safari is visiting a destination at the wrong time. Regardless of the fact that the Virunga National Park is accessible throughout the year intending visitors on gorilla safari need to pay keen attention to the park’s seasonality. Generally, this forested protected area suitably straddles astride the Equator - [Travel Planner](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/travel-planner/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Planning your trip to Virunga National Park? Virunga is a large park and many visitors just see a fraction of what it has to offer. However, proper planning will insure you maximize your time and see some of the most popular and amazing park features. The following quick links will get you started: Where - [Gorilla Permits](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/travel-planner/gorilla-permits/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text] To trek the rare mountain gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo, like any other gorilla destination, a gorilla permit is a must to have. The Virunga National Park refuges over 200 mountain gorillas out of the 1050 that are still surviving in the entire world and this makes it one of the - [Tchegera Island](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/places/tchegera-island/) - The Ichegera Island Camp is the perfect way to escape the bundle and bustle of Goma or to relax after climbing Nyiragongo Volcano. Located off the northern shore of Lake Kivu, Tchegera camp that gives spectacular views of the lake and four volcanoes. On clear nights, the Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira volcanoes add to the drama - [Rwenzori Mountains](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/places/rwenzori-mountains/) - Virunga National Park offers very spectacular trekking and climbing trips to the Rwenzori Mountains in the north of the park. Known as the mountains of the moon and these reach a height of 5,109m and contain the largest glaciers left on the African continent. Those who trek and climb in the Rwenzoris will also experience - [Gorilla Families](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/gorilla-families/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text] The Virunga is a UNESCO heritage site which is acknowledged to inhabit more than 200 mountain gorillas especially in the southern part and it expands about 7800 square kilometers. Those interested in gorilla trekking in the Virunga National Park, the gorilla permits cost $400. However, note that DRC is still recovering from political - [Maps](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/maps/) - We have a complete selection of Virunga maps to help plan your safari vacation. Please Note -We try to provide the best high resolution maps. Some of the map files are very large so be patient while the pages load. Virunga Region Map Mgahinga National Park Map Volcanoes National Park Map Virunga National Park Map - [Tariff](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/tariff/) - Quick guide to Virunga National Parks entrance fees, park passes and activity fees in the Virungas. Here are park and activity fees for Volcanoes National Park, Virunga National Park and Mgahinga National Park. - [Rwenzori Trek](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-do/rwenzori-trek/) - Also called the rainmaker, Rwenzori Mountains stand at a height of 5109m above sea level making them the third highest mountains on the African continent after Kilimanjaro and Kenya and then the highest block mountains on the continent since the other two mountains are volcanic. The mountain stretches between the border of Uganda and Democratic - [Mountains](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/mountains/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]This chain of volcanoes runs along the borders of Rwanda, the DR Congo and Uganda. The word Virunga corresponds to the word volcano in Kinyarawanda, the first language of the people who live nearest to the park. Seven of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga range stand within Virunga National Park’s boundaries. Most of - [Mount Nyiragongo](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/mountains/mount-nyiragongo/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]The Nyiragongo active volcano is one of Congo’s major tourist attractions. Located in the Eastern part of the country and overlooking the Virunga national park, Nyiragongo volcano is one of the 8 volcanoes within the Virunga conservation region. The other volcanoes include Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Mikeno, Mount Gahinga and mount Nyamuragira. - [Gorilla Trekking Success Rate](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/travel-planner/success-rate-to-see-gorillas/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]What is the success rate of seeing the mountain gorillas in the virunga? Viewing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a dream come true. Be part of our exhilarating gorilla trekking safaris in Congo and enjoy up close with the massive mountain gorillas in the wild while in the Virunga National Park. Like - [What to Pack](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/travel-planner/what-to-pack/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Therefore, the visit to Virunga National park require warm clothing, wet gear, in case of gorilla tracking and chimpanzee habituation walk, you need thick pants, long sleeved jacket or sweater, wellington boots or hiking shoes, sleeping bags for those hiking Mt.Nyiragongo. Below is a detailed guide to the best things to pack for a - [Why Visit Virunga](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/park-information/why-visit-virunga/) - [vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Gazetted in 1925, Virunga National Park was definitely the first of Africa’s extraordinary National Parks. Surprisingly, it is still one of the less-known and rarely explored Protected Areas in the Continent, possibly because of the conflicts that characterize the Eastern side of Democratic Republic of Congo every now and then. There is still a - [Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/places/senkwekwe-gorilla-orphanage/) - After visiting the gorillas in the wild, tourists who book with Mikeno lodge have an opportunity to visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage. This is the only Mountain gorilla orphanage in the world and about 7 individuals call it home. The center also rehabilitates Eastern Lowland gorilla orphans for a while before relocating them to the - [Where is Virunga](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/park-information/where-is-virunga/) - Virunga National Park lies in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, on the border with Uganda and Rwanda. It is almost 8,000km2 in size and is dominated in the centre by Lake Edward. The Gorilla Sector - also known as the Mikeno Sector (in green below) - is 250km2 of the park, in the southeast corner - [Lake Kivu](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/places/lake-kivu/) - Standing at a height of 1,460 meters above sea level, Lake Kivu covers a total surface area of some 2,700 km2 (1,040 sq mi) Some 1 370 km2 . The lake lies on the border between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, and is in the Albertine Rift, the western branch of the - [Tongo](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/places/tongo/) - Located in the southern sector of Virunga National Park, west of the park headquarters of Rumangabo, Tongo is a unique forest island and home to a small population of chimpanzees. The forest lies on one of the lava flows from Nyamulagira Volcano and is estimated to be 300 years old. HISTORY Beginning in 1987 and - [Conservation](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/conservation/) - Why we need help Our goal is to ensure the protection of 700,000 hectares of equatorial Africa and everything that lives on it now and in the future. It is hard to exaggerate how important that goal is, how difficult it will be to achieve, or how appalling the consequences will be if we fail. - [Orphan Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/orphan-gorillas/) - In the event that a Mountain Gorilla parent dies and their family is not willing or able to look after their offspring,we take that gorilla into care and look after them until they are ready to be returned to the wild. The orphans’ stories are as tragic as they are inspirational. It is inevitable that - [Solitary Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/solitary-gorillas/) - Virunga’s Solitaries are some of the most mysterious and fascinating individuals in the Mikeno Mountain Gorilla population. Most male Mountain Gorillas experience a period of solitude between leaving their parent group and establishing a family of their own. The Solitary Silverback plays a crucial role in the life of the species. About Solitary Gorillas. The - [Humba Family](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/gorilla-families/humba/) - The Humba family of Mountain Gorillas is one we have posted about many times as this is one of our habituated families. Humba is a very calm gorilla - and the rest of his family lives peacefully as a result of this. This does not mean however that Humba will not defend his females and - [Lulengo Family](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/gorilla-families/lulengo/) - Lulengo is one of the sons of the murdered Silverback Rugabo. After his father's death the Silverback Kwitonda took the Rugabo Family's females and went to Rwanda leaving the three brothers to build new families. Lulengo has managed to hold his family together despite many interactions; often with his brothers. Family Information The story of - [Kanombe Primary School in Bukima](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/schools/kanombe-primary-school-in-bukima/) - Founded in 1926 this school has seen some difficult times. None more so than the war of 2008-09 when the school was forced to close as the local population abandoned their homes, land and crops, and fled. The fighting was so close and so intense that at the time the people of Bukima believed - - [Kavumu Primary School in Bikenge](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/schools/kavumu-primary-school-in-bikenge/) - This school is probably the most basic of the five that have been recently financed. It was founded in 1930 by Belgian missionaries who ran it until around 1950. When they left, teaching stopped and the school closed. It stayed closed until 2001 when it was resurrected by Jean de Dieu, the Director. He is - [Nyakiliba Primary School in Jomba](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/schools/jomba/) - With 13 classrooms Nyakiliba is the largest school to be built in Virunga. The school that the Belgian missionaries built here in 1947 had three classrooms and stood almost unchanged as everything changed around it: empire gave way to independence and the demand for education grew exponentially. That demand has not been met until now. - [Rwaza Primary School in Gatovu](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/schools/gatovu/) - This school was founded in 1959. Only one of the original buildings is still standing - it’s the only colonial building to be found at any of our five schools. Rwaza has nine teachers who are led by their director Gilbert Bavukirahe. The Director Gilbert was born in Gatovu in 1958. He is married to - [Rumangabo](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/schools/rumangabo/) - Founded in 1936 Virunga National Park Primary school is at the organizational and spiritual hub of the park: Rumangabo. The cost of re-building this school was met by The Murry Foundation - they also financed the first phase of the construction of the nearby gorilla orphanage. In 2008 the construction of the school was interrupted - [Mapuwa](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/gorilla-families/mapuwa/) - The Mapuwa Family is led by Mapuwa and Nvuyekure. They have had more than their share of trouble - interacting as they have with solitaries, other gorilla families and one another. They have also been on the periphery of several armed conflicts and at the very centre of one. The history of the Mapuwa Family - [Schools](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/schools/) - No solution to Virunga’s problems can be morally justifiable or practically successful if it does not address the living conditions of the people who live in and around the park. It is unfair and unrealistic to expect people to care about bio-diversity in general, and the park in particular, when their most basic requirements have - [Mountain Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-see/mountain-gorillas/) - Mountain gorillas are the major attraction in the Virunga Region. About 490 mountain gorillas inhabit the Virunga Massif ecosystem shared by Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, the DRC's Virunga National Park, and Uganda's Mgahinga National Park. Another 400 and above live on a separate mountain in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest national park. Not like other primate species - [Gorilla Sector](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/sectors/gorilla-sector/) - The Gorilla Sector – also known as the Mikeno Sector - is 250km2 of Virunga and lies in the south-east corner of the park, bordering Rwanda and Uganda. The sector is home to about 200 of the world’s 700 remaining mountain gorillas, a critically endangered species that has survived the war in this conflict-ridden part - [Sectors](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/sectors/) - The Virunga National Park is made up of different sectors. - [Virunga Mountain Hiking](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-do/virunga-mountain-hiking/) - Virunga Mountains is the composition of the various massifs shared by three countries of Uganda, Rwanda and Congo, most of these massifs are open for hiking from either countries as long as the travelers is ready to hike the Virunga mountains , should just book them with local tour operator that will have the required - [Best Time to Visit](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/travel-planner/best-time-to-visit-virunga/) - Situated at the Eastern side of the Democratic Republic of Congo is the remarkable Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site created in 1925 with an aim of conserving the critically endangered mountain gorillas. This Park is part of the enormous Virunga massif shared by Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda and Mgahinga National park - [About Congo](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/about-congo/) - The unknown world is worth visiting. The Democratic Republic of Congo formerly Zaire is the ultimate destination for an African adventure with absolutely some of the best adventures to ever take. The most enjoyable experiences that no tourists will ever forget within the ciuntry include travels to the Eastern side. About Congo The country is - [Nature Walks](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/things-to-do/nature-walks/) - Virunga National Park is located in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, within the Virunga Conservation Area and is a home to over 6 volcanoes that make up the massive Virunga Massif. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was gazzeted in 1925 (making it one of the first gazzeted Parks in Africa), mainly to conserve the critically - [Gorilla Trekking Rules](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/travel-planner/gorilla-trekking-rules/) - Gorilla tourism is one of the well monitored and regulated form of responsible tourism. There are strict rules and guidelines that tourists taking gorilla safaris must adhere to! These regulations are the same over the three destinations where mountain gorilla trekking is conducted i.e Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. Healthy Issues Protecting the Gorillas is - [Accommodation](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/accommodation/) - Are you planning for your trip to Virunga National Park? Are you familiar with some of the decent accommodation facilities in the Virunga? The Virunga National Park offers visitors with the most breathtaking gorilla safari experiences which is very unique. Spending an hour in a face to face interaction with the rare mountain gorillas in - [Tours](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/tours/) - $100 6 Days Congo and Rwanda Gorillas April 16, 2018 0 review(s) 6 days $100 4 Days Congo Gorilla Trek April 16, 2018 0 review(s) 4 days $100 4 Days Virunga Gorilla Tour April 16, 2018 0 review(s) 4 days $100 13 Days Rwenzori Trek April 16, 2018 0 review(s) 13 days $1,359 4 Days - [Contact](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/contact/) - Our Offices United State 30 Bertrand Ave Suite 11A/12A Toronto M1L 2P5, USA +1 844 311 3006 Canada 30 Bertrand Ave Suite 11A/12A Toronto M1L 2P5, Canada +1 844 311 3006 Australia 30 Bertrand Ave Suite 11A/12A Toronto M1L 2P5, Australia +1 844 311 3006 Get in Touch We reside everywhere all the lorem Ipsum - [About](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/about/) - Let us show you the world Our team of travel insiders is obsessed with finding the best things to do everywhere: we travel. 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Their buildings were probably - [Page Footer](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/?elementor_library=page-footer) - For Travellers Why us Why Touring Share your review Travel Insurance Referral program About TourX About Customer Reviews Terms & Conditions Contact Help For Operators List your tours Log In Awards Travellers’ Choice Authors Newsletter Signup Subscribe now and recieve a 50% discount on your next tour booking Sign up About Contact Press trade & - [Blog New Section](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/?elementor_library=blog-new-section) - Travel Tips checkout latest news and articles from our blog News Construction Of A Drystone Wall at Mikeno Sector August 25, 2002 By admin December 13, 2025 Following the recent deforestation and cultivation of a large area in the Mikeno sector of the Virunga National Park, UNEP, WWF, IGCP, ... News DR Congo Open for - [Tour Post](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/?elementor_library=tour-post) - Featured Tours check out our best promotion tours! - [Search Tour Section](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/?elementor_library=search-tour-section) - Keywords When Guests Search ## Products - [4 Days Virunga Volcanoes & Nyiragongo Hike](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/accommodation/4-days-virunga-volcanoes-nyiragongo-hike-2/) - This is a variable product used for booking processed with WooCommerce. - [Nyiragongo Crater Cabanas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/accommodation/nyiragongo-crater-cabanas/) - On the edge of the Nyiragongo crater within sight of the sweltering lava lake, stand eight simple but firm Cabanas. Colored black the Cabanas blend in perfectly with the lava rock surroundings. Any trip up the volcano should include a night spent in these Cabanas, that is why they have been included in the price - [Mikeno Lodge](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/accommodation/mikeno-lodge/) - Mikeno Lodge is the only luxury accommodation in Virunga National Park. This is Virunga National Park's first lodge opening for tourists in July of 2011. Centered between three main tourist attractions, it is a perfect location to begin treks to see the gorillas, chimpanzees, and Nyiragongo volcano. Nestled among the trees of a virgin forest, - [Bukima Tented Camp](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/accommodation/bukima-tented-camp/) - Bukima tented camp is situated outside the Virunga national park boundary and it is one of the major starting points for Virunga’s mountain gorilla trekking. The camp was initially constructed for researchers but today it is used mainly by trekkers. Visitors at Bukima tented camp spend their night in platform tents but by camping standards, - [Lulimbi Tented Camp](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/accommodation/lulimbi-tented-camp/) - Lulimbi tented camp lies at the center of Virunga national park and it is acknowledged for its elephants, hippos, buffaloes, warthogs, giant forest hogs, topi, crocodiles and numerous bird species. The camp is situated along side the shoreline of the Ishasha River, that winds via the Virunga’s lush savanna plains. Lulimbi tented camp is an - [Nyiragongo Summit Shelters](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/accommodation/nyiragongo-summit-shelters/) - Apart from tracking mountain gorillas, Virunga National Park is also famous for volcano hiking experiences at Nyiragongo volcano-the most stunning stratovolcano in Africa. Nyiragongo volcano is a home to the world’s largest lava lake while on its forested base area is inhabited by abundant wildlife specifically chimpanzees, monkeys and bushbuck. Nyiragongo’s summit rim is largely ## Destinations - [Chile](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/chile/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [China](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/china/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [Dubai](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/dubai/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [England](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/england/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [France](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/france-2/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [Indonesia](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/indonesia/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [Japan](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/japan/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [Maldives](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/maldives/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [Norway](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/norway/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [Netherlands](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/netherlands/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [Turkey](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/turkey/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [Vietnam](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/vietnam/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [Australia](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/australia/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not - [America](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/destinations/america/) - History Ancient history and settlement. Main article: History of the Maldives § Early Age. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were probably built of wood, palm fronds and other perishable materials, which would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate. Moreover, chiefs or headmen did not ## Tours - [6 Days Congo and Rwanda Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/safaris/congo-and-rwanda-gorillas/) - The 6 days Gorilla Trekking in Congo and Rwanda is one of the most rewarding safaris starting in Kigali and leading to Volcanoes National Park in north-western Rwanda as well as Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo for a combined gorilla trekking experience. This safari is not solely about gorilla trekking but - [4 Days Congo Gorilla Trek](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/safaris/congo-gorilla-trek/) - The 4 days Congo Gorilla Trekking Tour is a short yet rewarding tour based within with magnificent Virunga National Park, within the Eastern side of Democratic Republic of Congo. Gazetted in 1925, Virunga National Park is one of the oldest Parks in Africa and undoubtedly one of the most diverse places for wildlife, bird-life and - [4 Days Virunga Gorilla Tour](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/safaris/virunga-gorilla-tour/) - The 4 days Virunga Gorillas is a thrilling adventure-packed Tour Package, based within the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo for the lifetime dream of trekking the mountain gorillas of the Virunga National Park. Although adversely affected by continuous conflicts from rebel activities, this Part of the country is an excellent and untouched gorilla trekking destination. - [13 Days Rwenzori Trek](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/safaris/rwenzori-trek/) - Sample itinerary for the trip Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda for city trip Day 2: Drive to Virunga National Park. Day 3: Virunga National Park Safari exploration and gorilla trekking Day 4: Transfer to Rwenzori Mountains Drive to the Rwenzori Mountains, crossing the border into Uganda. Spend a day acclimatizing to the altitude and - [4 Days Nyiragongo Hike](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/safaris/nyiragongo-hike/) - A 4 Days Hiking Expedition to Mount Nyiragongo, one of the few active volcanoes in Africa. - [2 Day Nyiragongo Volcano Hike](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/safaris/nyiragongo-volcano-hike/) - This tour to climb Nyiragongo volcano start and ends in Goma, This short tour will take you to kibati where you will climb the famous active Nyiragongo volcano to see the world’s largest lava lake. The Nyiragongo is one of the world’s most active volcanoes. - [4 Days Virunga Volcanoes & Nyiragongo Hike](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/safaris/virunga-volcanoes-nyiragongo-hike/) - This 4 Day Budget Tour in Virunga National Park to climb Nyiragongo volcano and Track Mountain Gorilla, start and ends in Kigali This short tour will take you to kibati where you will climb the famous active Nyiragongo volcano to see the world’s largest lava lake, also go to track Mountain gorillas in Virunga National park. ## Blog Categories - [Adventures](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/adventures/) - [News](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/news/) - [Tips](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/tips/) - [About Gorillas](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/about-gorillas/) ## Product categories - [Lodges](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/product-category/lodges/) - [Luxury Lodges](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/product-category/luxury-lodges/) - [Budget Lodges](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/product-category/budget-lodges/) - [Midrange Lodges](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/product-category/midrange-lodges/) ## Tour Categories - [Chimpanzee](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/experiences/chimpanzee/) - [Gorilla Tours](https://www.virunganationalpark.org/experiences/gorilla-tours/)