The Virunga region is one of the top destinations for an African safari. This region encompasses Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Virunga area also boasts a chain of eight spectacular volcanoes that can be hiked year-round.
Below are the 5 best things to do in the Virunga region:
1. Mountain Gorilla Trekking
No African holiday in the Virunga region is complete without experiencing mountain gorilla trekking. The region is renowned for its captivating gorilla trekking adventures, which play a major role in the conservation of mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda.
Each of the three parks in the Virunga Conservation Area features habituated gorilla groups. In Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda, there is the Nyakagezi gorilla family, a habituated group open for trekking. In Virunga National Park in the DRC, visitors can trek the Lulengo, Bageni, Nyakamwe, Mapuwa, Humba, Munyaga, Rugendo, and Kabirizi gorilla families. In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, you can trek groups such as Umubano, Karisimbi (Susa B), Susa A, Hirwa, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Agashya, Pablo, and Titus.
A valid gorilla permit is required for trekking in any of these parks. The permit prices vary by destination: in Volcanoes National Park, a permit costs USD 1,500; in Mgahinga National Park, it costs USD 800; and in Virunga National Park, it costs USD 400. Local tour operators can assist in booking permits, safaris, accommodations, and transportation. It is advisable to book your permit or safari at least 2-6 months in advance.
Essential items to bring for gorilla trekking include comfortable waterproof hiking boots, a daypack, long-sleeved shirts, a sweater, a rain jacket, insect repellent, a camera with extra batteries, gardening gloves, socks, a first-aid kit, bottled water, and snacks.
2. Golden Monkey Tracking
Golden monkey tracking is another must-do activity in the Virunga region. This primate adventure allows you to observe the behavior of golden monkey troops and offers a unique opportunity to photograph them in their natural habitat. The best places for golden monkey trekking are Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
Golden monkey trekking typically lasts between 2 and 4 hours, including an hour spent in close encounters with the monkeys. In Mgahinga, permits cost USD 60 for foreign non-residents, USD 50 for foreign residents, and UGX 40,000 for East African Community citizens. For a more immersive experience, visitors can opt for the golden monkey habituation experience in Mgahinga, which costs USD 100 for foreign non-residents, USD 80 for foreign residents, and UGX 100,000 for East African Community members.
In Rwanda, golden monkey trekking permits are priced at USD 100 for foreign non-residents, USD 65 for foreign residents, and RWF 4,000 for Rwandan citizens. All permits and tours can be booked through reliable and certified tour operators.
3. Volcano Hiking
The Virunga region is a prime destination for thrilling volcano hikes. Each park offers multiple hiking opportunities. In Virunga National Park, DRC, Mount Nyiragongo, standing at 3,470 meters, is the most popular starting point for volcano hiking.
In Rwanda, popular hikes include Mount Karisimbi (4,507 meters), the highest of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga range, as well as Mount Bisoke, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Gahinga. In Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, hikers can challenge themselves on Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura.
4. Bird Watching
The Virunga region is also a haven for bird watchers. The region is home to several Albertine Rift endemic bird species. Virunga National Park hosts over 706 bird species, Volcanoes National Park is home to around 200 species, and Mgahinga National Park features about 180 species.
Notable Albertine Rift endemics to look out for include the red-throated alethe, Rwenzori turaco, red-faced woodland warbler, Rwenzori batis, Kivu ground thrush, Archer’s ground robin, stripe-breasted tit, mountain masked apalis, collared apalis, regal sunbird, Shelley’s crimsonwing, and dusky crimsonwing.
5. Dian Fossey Tomb Trek
The Dian Fossey tomb trek is a highlight in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. This trek takes you through the footsteps of Dian Fossey, the renowned primatologist whose work to save mountain gorillas is legendary. The trek can be combined with other activities in Volcanoes National Park, such as gorilla trekking or golden monkey tracking. The trek typically lasts 2 to 3 hours and is guided by an experienced local guide.
In conclusion, the Virunga region offers an enriching tourism experience, perfect for primate adventures and volcano hikes. Whether you’re trekking with mountain gorillas, tracking golden monkeys, or exploring the volcanic landscapes, the Virunga region promises unforgettable adventures.
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