Explore the Bio-diverse Kahuzi-Biega National Park in Congo

Nestled near the Congo-Rwanda border and adjacent to Lake Kivu, lies Kahuzi-Biega National Park which is also close to Bukavu in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Established in 1970 by Belgian conservationist Adrien Deschryver, this expansive park spans about 6,000 square kilometres. Known for its unique biodiversity and vast rainforests, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the 1980s.

Origins and Name of Kahunzi-Biega National Park

The park derives its name from two dormant volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, which define its borders. Its varied terrain includes both lowland forests and mountainous regions. Kahuzi-Biega is renowned as the habitat of the endangered Eastern lowland gorillas, or Grauer’s gorillas, the largest gorilla subspecies. As of 2015, only around 3,800 Grauer’s gorillas remain, mostly found in Kahuzi-Biega and Salonga National Parks.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Kahuzi-Biega boasts incredible biodiversity, with over 137 mammal species and 350 bird species recorded. While the Eastern lowland gorilla is the park’s main attraction, other primates such as golden monkeys, chimpanzees, and red-tailed monkeys thrive here. Mammals like bush elephants, forest hogs, and antelope species also inhabit the park, alongside endemic creatures such as Alexander’s bush squirrel and Maclaud’s horseshoe bat. Bird enthusiasts can spot rare species like the Grauer’s broadbill and Rockefeller’s sunbird.

Conservation and Challenges

Managed by the Congolese Institute of Conservation of Nature (ICCN) with support from organizations like WWF, the park faces numerous challenges. Rebel activities, illegal logging, and encroachment for agriculture threaten its ecosystem. Political instability, particularly between 1996 and 2003, led to significant habitat loss. Efforts have been made to curb poaching and resolve disputes with local communities, including employing former poachers and involving locals in conservation efforts. Despite progress, funding shortages and illegal mining continue to pose hurdles.

Activities for Visitors

1. Gorilla Trekking:
The park offers unique opportunities to observe Grauer’s gorillas. Trekking involves navigating dense forests and mountains to find habituated groups. Permits cost $400, and visitors can spend one hour with these majestic creatures, observing their behaviours and interactions.

2. Nature Walks:
Marked trails, such as the Tshibati Waterfalls Trail, allow visitors to explore swamps, bamboo forests, and waterfalls while spotting primates and birds.

3. Mountain Hiking:
Adventurers can hike Mount Kahuzi (3,308 meters), Mount Biega (2,790 meters), or Mount Bugulumiza (2,400 meters) for panoramic views and encounters with diverse vegetation and wildlife.

4. Birdwatching:
Birding sessions reveal species like the Congo peafowl and African green broadbill, particularly during the rainy season when migratory birds flock to the park.

5. Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Centre:
Located near the park headquarters, this centre cares for rescued primates, offering visitors insights into conservation and opportunities to volunteer.

Planning Your Visit

Travelers need a Congo visa ($115) and an official park invitation. The most convenient route is via Kigali, Rwanda, with a drive to Bukavu through the Cyangugu border. Visitors can also access Bukavu by boat from Goma or by air. Accommodation options range from luxury lodges like L’Orchids Safari Club to budget hotels like Exodus Bukavu.

Packing Essentials

Visitors should bring a rain jacket, warm clothing, insect repellent, bottled water, snacks, a camera, and medication. Gorilla trekking permits, a flashlight, and sleeping bags (if camping) are also recommended.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park offers an unparalleled wilderness experience, showcasing the beauty and fragility of Africa’s rainforests. It’s a destination for nature lovers and adventurers seeking to connect with endangered wildlife and unspoiled landscapes: