The Virunga region is one of the best destinations for safari in Africa. The region includes Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Virunga region is also home to a series of eight spectacular volcanoes that can be hiked year-round.
Here are 5 of the best things to do in Virunga:
1. Mountain Gorilla Trekking
No African vacation in the Virunga region is complete without experiencing mountain gorilla trekking. The area is famous for its fascinating gorilla trekking safaris, which play an important role in mountain gorilla conservation in Uganda and Rwanda.
The three parks in the Virunga Conservation Area are home to gorilla groups. exist Mgahinga Gorilla National Park In southwestern Uganda, there is the Nyakagez gorilla family, a group accustomed to trekking. In Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, visitors can hike Lulungo, Bagni, Nyakamwe, Mapuwa, Humba, Munyaga, Rugundo and Kabilizida Orangutan family. exist Rwanda Volcanoes National Parkgroups you can hike include Umubano, Karisimbi (Susa B), Susa A, Hirwa, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Agashya, Pablo and Titus.
A valid gorilla permit is required for trekking in these parks. Permit prices vary by destination: In Volcanoes National Park, a permit costs $1,500; To add a national park, the fee is $400. Local travel agents can assist with booking permits, safaris, accommodation and transportation. It is recommended to book a license or hunt at least 2-6 months in advance.
Essential items for gorilla trekking include comfortable waterproof hiking boots, backpack, long-sleeved shirt, sweater, raincoat, insect repellent, camera with extra batteries, gardening gloves, socks, first aid kit, bottled water and snacks.
2. Golden Monkey Tracking
Tracking golden monkeys is another must-do activity in the Virunga region. This primate expedition allows you to observe the behavior of a group of golden monkeys and provides 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 walks usually last 2 to 4 hours, including an hour of close contact with the monkeys. In Mgahinga, a permit costs US$60 for foreign non-residents, US$50 for foreign residents and £40,000 for East African Community citizens. For a more immersive experience, visitors can opt for the Golden Monkey Taming Experience in Mgahinga, which costs US$100 for foreign non-residents, US$80 for foreign residents and UGX 100,000 for East African Community members.
In Rwanda, a Golden Monkey Trekking Permit costs US$100 for foreign non-residents, US$65 for foreign residents, and Rwandan 4,000 Rwandan francs for Rwandan citizens. All permits and tours can be booked through reliable and certified travel agencies.
3. Volcano Hike
The Virunga region is a prime destination for exciting volcano treks. Each park offers a variety of hiking opportunities. Mount Nyiragongo is located in Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is 3,470 meters above sea level. It is the most popular starting point for volcano hiking.
Popular hikes in Rwanda include Mount Karisimbi (4,507 metres), the highest of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains, as well as Mount Bisoke, Mount Muhabura and Mount Gasinga. In Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, hikers can challenge themselves on Mount Sabinyo, Mount Gahinga and Mount Muhabra.
4. Bird watching
this virunga region It is also a paradise for bird watchers. The area is home to several species of bird species endemic to the Albertine Rift Valley. Virunga National Park has more than 706 bird species, Volcanoes National Park has about 200 bird species, and Mgahinga National Park has about 180 bird species.
Notable endemic species to the Albertine Rift include the ruby-throated finch, Rwenzori turaco, red-faced warbler, Rwenzori bat, Kivu ground thrush, bowland robin, striped-breasted tit, and mountain hooded tit Birds, Collared Finch, Imperial Sunbird, Shelley’s Crimson Wing and Dusky Crimson Wing.
5. Diane Fossey’s Tomb Trek
Dian Fossey’s Tomb Hiking is a highlight of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. This hike takes you in the footsteps of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey, whose work rescuing mountain gorillas is legendary. Trekking can be combined with other activities in Volcanoes National Park, such as gorilla trekking or golden monkey tracking. Walking tours usually last 2 to 3 hours and are led by experienced local guides.
All in all, the Virunga region offers a wealth of travel experiences, ideal for primate safaris and volcano excursions. Whether you’re hiking with mountain gorillas, tracking golden monkeys, or exploring volcanic landscapes, the Virunga region offers unforgettable adventures.
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