Safari in Eastern Rift Valley & Virunga Mountains
Discover the majestic Virunga volcanoes, iconic mountain gorillas, and diverse ecosystems along the Albertine Rift Valley.
Eastern Rift Valley & Virunga Mountains Parks Map
Explore safari parks across Eastern Rift Valley & Virunga Mountains
Eastern Rift Valley & Virunga Mountains Safari Parks
Explore safari parks in Eastern Rift Valley & Virunga Mountains
Domaine de chasse de la Lwama
Domaine de chasse de la Lwama is a protected area in Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kigezi Wildlife Reserve
Kigezi Wildlife Reserve is a protected area in Democratic Republic of Congo.
Massif d'Itombwe
Massif d'Itombwe is a protected area in Democratic Republic of Congo.
Parc national de Kahuzi-Biega
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kahuzi-Biega is famous for being one of the last refuges of the critically endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas (Grauer's gorillas). Visitors can embark on unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures through its dense rainforests, which also harbor chimpanzees, forest elephants, and various primate species.
Parc National de la Rusizi Secteur Palmeraie
Parc National de la Rusizi Secteur Palmeraie is a protected area in Democratic Republic of Congo.
Parc national des Virunga
Africa's oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Virunga is globally renowned for its population of critically endangered mountain gorillas, offering unparalleled trekking experiences. It also boasts diverse landscapes including active volcanoes (Nyiragongo), lava plains, savannas, and forests, home to chimpanzees, elephants, and a rich birdlife.
Réserve des gorilles de Tayna
Réserve des gorilles de Tayna is a protected area in Democratic Republic of Congo.
Réserve des primates de Kisimba-Ikobo
Réserve des primates de Kisimba-Ikobo is a protected area in Democratic Republic of Congo.
Réserve naturelle de Kalikuku
Réserve naturelle de Kalikuku is a protected area in Democratic Republic of Congo.
Toro-Semliki Proposed National Park
Toro-Semliki Proposed National Park is a protected area in Democratic Republic of Congo.
Compare Parks in Eastern Rift Valley & Virunga Mountains
Side-by-side comparison of safari parks in Eastern Rift Valley & Virunga Mountains
| Park | Area | Wildlife | Lodges | Crowds | Malaria | Airport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parc national des Virunga | - | 550 | - | Very Quiet | High | CD-0018 (28km) |
| Parc national de Kahuzi-Biega | - | 159 | - | Very Quiet | High | FZMD (52km) |
| Domaine de chasse de la Lwama | - | - | - | Very Quiet | High | FZMP (57km) |
| Kigezi Wildlife Reserve | - | 558 | - | Very Quiet | High | KHX (13km) |
| Massif d'Itombwe | - | - | - | Very Quiet | High | FZPB (62km) |
| Parc National de la Rusizi Secteur Palmeraie | - | 261 | - | Very Quiet | High | BJM (15km) |
| Réserve des gorilles de Tayna | - | - | - | Very Quiet | High | FZNF (60km) |
| Réserve des primates de Kisimba-Ikobo | - | - | - | Very Quiet | High | FZNR (74km) |
| Réserve naturelle de Kalikuku | - | 221 | - | Quiet | High | FZNF (4km) |
| Toro-Semliki Proposed National Park | - | 605 | - | Very Quiet | High | HUFP (32km) |
179 species recorded in Eastern Rift Valley & Virunga Mountains14 threatened
We love the sheer drama of the Virunga Mountains. Standing on the slopes, you can feel the ancient power of these volcanoes, cloaked in mist and vibrant green. The air is cool and carries the scent of damp earth and exotic blossoms. We recommend taking time to simply absorb the scale of it all; the views across the Albertine Rift are breathtaking, and the sheer biodiversity packed into these steep inclines is astounding.
Terrain & Altitude
Steep volcanic slopes and montane forests dominate the landscape, descending into the Great Rift Valley's lower elevations.
700-4,500m above sea level
Vegetation
Dense montane rainforests, bamboo forests, and alpine meadows transition to savanna grasslands at lower altitudes.
Water Sources
Numerous clear streams and rivers cascade down the volcanic slopes, feeding into Lake Kivu and seasonal swampy areas.
Unique Features
The chain of eight active and dormant volcanoes, part of the Albertine Rift, creates a dramatic and geologically active environment.
We always recommend flying into Kigali for the most reliable international connections and then arranging a private transfer. While Goma is closer, flight schedules can be unpredictable, and the border crossing from Rwanda is generally smoother. Be prepared for variable road conditions once you're in the park; a sturdy 4WD is essential, and we advise traveling with a local guide who knows the routes.
Nearest Airports
Goma International Airport (GOM)
30km / 1hr drive
Limited scheduled flights from Kinshasa; charter flights readily available from Entebbe and Kigali.
Kigali International Airport (KGL)
120km / 3-4hr drive
Daily connections from major international hubs like Amsterdam, Doha, and Nairobi.
Bush Airstrips
Driving Routes
From Goma
Paved road to Rumangabo, the gateway to the northern sector of the park. Road conditions can vary, especially after heavy rains.
From Kigali, Rwanda
Cross the border at Grande Barrière or Petite Barrière and drive to Goma, then continue to Rumangabo. Ensure your visa and vehicle import documents are in order beforehand.
Temperature
21.1°C
70°F
Rainfall
125 mm
Wet season
Humidity
74.1%
Sunshine
9.8 hrs/day
Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API
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Health & Travel Info
Important health and safety information for Democratic Republic of Congo