Things to Do in Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park stands as Africa's oldest national park and one of its most extraordinary wilderness areas, stretching across the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo near the borders with Rwanda and Uganda. This UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses an incredibly diverse landscape that ranges from the volcanic peaks of the Virunga Mountains to the shores of Lake Edward, creating habitats for an remarkable array of wildlife including the world's largest population of critically endangered mountain gorillas. The park has endured decades of conflict and poaching, yet it remains a testament to conservation efforts and the dedication of its rangers who risk their lives daily to protect this irreplaceable ecosystem. Despite the challenges, Virunga offers some of the most profound wildlife encounters on the continent, from gorilla trekking to observing chimpanzees and forest elephants in their natural habitat.

Dining options center around Goma and the park's lodges, with most accommodations providing full-board packages that include hearty meals suited for active days in the wilderness. Goma offers a mix of Congolese cuisine featuring cassava, plantains, and fresh fish from Lake Kivu, alongside international options catering to the NGO and tourism communities. The park's remote locations mean packed lunches are standard for day activities, while overnight treks include basic but filling camp meals. Local specialties worth trying include tilapia from Lake Kivu and Congolese stews, though food safety considerations make lodge dining the safest option for international visitors.

The dry seasons from June to September and December to February offer the most favorable conditions for wildlife tracking and volcano hiking, with clearer trails and better visibility. However, Virunga's equatorial location means rain can occur year-round, and the park's diverse elevations create varying microclimates. Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking happen throughout the year since these animals don't migrate, but wet season treks from March to May and October to November can be significantly more challenging due to muddy, slippery conditions. That said, the wet season brings lush vegetation and fewer crowds, which some visitors actually prefer despite the physical challenges.