Kahuzi-Biega National Park is one of the top destinations, popular for the Eastern lowland gorilla tracking safaris. Even with this precious jewel, the National Park still remains unexplored with less development especially In terms of accommodation facilities and security measures hence it requires tourists to be well prepared and extra careful when planning for a gorilla trekking safari in this Park. However, tourists planning to track gorillas from the Democratic Republic of Congo always get confused on what to pack for a gorilla trekking adventure in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. This article will solve your dilemma, as it brings you a comprehensive list of what to pack/wear for your gorilla trekking safari in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, so as to have a memorable experience.
A passport and Visa
Tourists planning to travel to Democratic Republic of Congo should make sure that they possess a valid passport, Visa and a certificate of inoculation against yellow fever. A valid passport is also very important when acquiring a gorilla permits hence it is a must have document for all tourists intending to track these lowland gorillas from this Park. There are government checkpoints at all border crossing points, to make sure you have a valid passport and Congo Visa.
A gorilla permit
Where in this world can you track gorillas without a valid gorilla trekking permit? Therefore gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park is not exceptional because a gorilla permit is a must have for all tourists. Gorilla permits for tracking the eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Beiga national park cost $400 per person for foreign non-residents, $200 for East African residents and $20 for Congo citizens. Because there is only one habituated gorilla group available for tracking in this Park, permits have to be booked in advance to avoid disappointment. Gorilla permit for this Park can be booked though info@kahuzibiega.org or calling +243 971 968488
Appropriate footwear
The appropriate footwear for gorilla trekking is light waterproof hiking boots with enough ankle support because of the nature of the tropical rainforest and the altitude of the Park. This hiking boots provides grip incase it rains because the trails tend to be muddy and slippery. It is also important to carry/wear long socks, and tuck your trousers into the socks in order to prevent insects such as safari Ants from entering into your pants/trousers.
The right hiking attire
The right hiking attire for lowland gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park is long sleeved shirts that will protect your arms from getting scratched by tree branches or grass, also long trousers to protect your legs from getting scratched, wear garden gloves because in the process of hiking you might need to support yourself using tree branches hence these gloves serve to protect your hands against germs and injuries, also wear a waterproof rain jacket because you might not be sure of when it will rain (whether it is a rainy or dry season). You will also need a hat and sunglasses for the sunny times, scarf and sweater for the cold evenings.
Drinking water and snacks
Gorilla trekking is an interesting but strenuous activity that can take from 30minutes to several hours before a gorilla group is sighted. It is therefore important to carry enough drinking water (of at least on liter) and snacks or packed lunch to rejuvenate your lost energy during the hikes
First aid kit and medications
Since you are venturing into the jungles, it is important to carry a first aid kit with important items like bandages, painkillers and liniments for relieving muscle strains.
Gadgets like cameras with enough batteries to allow you capture every exciting moment during the gorilla trekking adventure. Tourists interested in birding should carry binoculars so as to see some of the interesting bird species that call Kahuzi-Biega National park home.
In conclusion, the Eastern Lowland gorillas can only be tracked from Kahuzi-Biega National Park, and to achieve an ultimate gorilla trekking experience in this park, tourists are advised to pack the right foot wear (water proof hiking boots), appropriate hiking attire such as long sleeved shirts and long trousers, a gorilla permit and a valid passport/Congo Visa. When you dress the right way and carry the right equipments, you will appreciate every single moment into the Jungles of Kahuzi-Biega National Park.
