The Virunga region is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa. It 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 eight spectacular volcanoes that can be hiked all year round.
Below are the 5 best activities to do in the Virunga region.
1. Mountain gorilla trekking
An African holiday in the Virunga region is incomplete without experiencing mountain gorilla trekking. The region is famous for its mesmerizing gorilla trekking adventures and plays a major role in the conservation of mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda.
Each of the three parks in the Virunga Conservation Area is home to habituated groups of gorillas. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park In southwestern Uganda, you will find the Nyakagezi gorilla family, a habituated group of gorillas that are open to trekking. In Virunga National Park in the DRC, you can trek to the Lurengo, Bageni, Nyakamwe, Mapuwa, Fumba, Munyaga, Rugendo and Kabirizi gorilla families. Volcanoes National Park, RwandaIn, you can trek through groups such as Umubano, Karisimbi (Susa B), Susa A, Hirwa, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Agashya, Pablo and Titus.
You need a valid gorilla permit to trek in these parks. Permit prices vary depending on the destination. In Volcanoes National Park a permit costs USD 1,500, in Mgahinga National Park USD 800, and in Virunga National Park USD 400. Local tour operators can help you book permits, safaris, accommodation, and transport. It is recommended that you book permits or safaris at least 2-6 months in advance.
Items you should definitely bring on a gorilla trek include comfortable waterproof hiking boots, a day pack, a long sleeve shirt, 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 a must-do activity in the Virunga region. This primate adventure offers a unique opportunity to observe the behavior of a group of golden monkeys and take photos 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 usually takes 2-4 hours, including an hour of close interaction with the monkeys. In Mgahinga, permits cost US$60 for non-resident foreigners, US$50 for resident foreigners, and Uganda shillings 40,000 for East African Community citizens. Those looking for a more immersive experience can opt for golden monkey taming experience in Mgahinga, which costs US$100 for non-resident foreigners, US$80 for resident foreigners, and Uganda shillings 100,000 for East African Community members.
In Rwanda, the cost of a Golden Monkey trekking permit is US$100 for non-resident foreigners, US$65 for foreign residents, and Rwandan Francs 4,000 for Rwandan nationals. All permits and tours can be booked through trusted and accredited tour operators.
3. Volcano hike
The Virunga region is a top destination for thrilling volcano hikes. Each park offers a variety of hiking opportunities. In Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mount Nyiragongo, at 3,470 metres above sea level, is the most popular starting point for volcano hikes.
Popular hikes in Rwanda include Mount Karisimbi (4,507 metres), the tallest of the Virunga mountain range’s eight volcanoes, as well as Mount Visoke, Mount Muhabura and Mount Gahinga. In Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, hikers can tackle Mount Sabinyo, Mount Gahinga and Mount Muhabura.
4. Bird watching
of Virunga Region is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with many bird species endemic to the Albertine Rift Valley in the region. Virunga National Park is home to over 706 bird species, Volcanoes National Park has around 200 and Mgahinga National Park has around 180.
Notable Albertine Rift endemics include the Red-throated Sandpiper, Rwenzori Tallbird, Scarlet Woodcock, Rwenzori Bulbul, Yellow Ground Thrush, Long-eared Warbler, Siberian Titmouse, Mountain Masked Apalis, Collared Apalis, Regal Sunbird, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, and Dusky Crimsonwing.
5. Trek to Dian Fossey’s Grave
Dian Fossey’s Grave Trek is a highlight of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. This trek follows in the footsteps of Dian Fossey, a primatologist famous for her work in protecting mountain gorillas. This trek can be combined with other activities in Volcanoes National Park, such as gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking. Treks usually last 2-3 hours and are led by experienced local guides.
In conclusion, the Virunga region offers a fulfilling tourism experience perfect for primate adventures and volcano hikes. Whether you want to trek with mountain gorillas, track golden monkeys or explore the volcanic landscape, the Virunga region promises an unforgettable adventure.
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