Virunga National Park And What You Should Expect
Virunga National Park And What You Should Expect : If you are planning a tour to East Africa, then Virunga National Park is definitely a destination worth considering. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in one of the most beautiful regions in Africa, offering a breathtaking natural beauty that is sure to leave you mesmerized. So, in which East African country is Virunga National Park found? The answer is the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Virunga National Park is located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, covering an area of 7,800 square kilometers. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including endangered species like the mountain gorillas, eastern lowland gorillas, and the okapi, which is the national animal of the country.
The park was established in 1925, making it the oldest national park in Africa. It was initially created to protect the mountain gorillas, which were facing extinction due to habitat loss and poaching. Today, the park is not only a haven for wildlife but also a center for scientific research and tourism.
To visit Virunga National Park, you can fly into the nearest airport, which is Goma International Airport. From there, you can hire a car or take a taxi to the park. The journey takes about an hour, and along the way, you will have the chance to see the stunning scenery of the region.
There are various activities to do in the park, including gorilla trekking, hiking, bird watching, and wildlife safaris. Gorilla trekking is the most popular activity, and it is an experience that you will never forget. You will get up close with the gentle giants and observe them in their natural habitat. Hiking is also an excellent way to explore the park, with the Nyiragongo volcano being a popular destination. The hike to the top takes about 5-6 hours, but the view from the summit is simply breathtaking, Virunga National Park And What You Should Expect
If you are a bird lover, then Virunga National Park is the perfect destination for you. The park is home to over 700 bird species, including the African green broadbill, Grauer’s swamp warbler, and the Congo peafowl.
Virunga National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a tour of East Africa. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and various activities, the park is a gem that should not be missed. So pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Virunga National Park And What You Should Expect
Virunga National Park, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream destination. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including many endangered species. So, if you are planning a tour to this park, here are some of the wildlife species you can expect to see.
Mountain Gorillas
Virunga National Park is one of the few places in the world where you can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The park is home to over a third of the world’s population of mountain gorillas, making it an essential destination for gorilla trekking enthusiasts. The experience of getting up close with these gentle giants is an unforgettable one, Virunga National Park And What You Should Expect
Eastern Lowland Gorillas
In addition to mountain gorillas, the park is also home to eastern lowland gorillas, also known as Grauer’s gorillas. These gorillas are the largest primates in the world, and the park is the only place where you can see them in their natural habitat.
Okapi
The okapi is the national animal of the Democratic Republic of Congo and is found only in the rainforests of Central Africa. These beautiful animals have a zebra-like pattern on their legs and are closely related to giraffes. They are shy creatures and are often difficult to spot, but they can be seen in Virunga National Park.
Forest Elephants
Virunga National Park is home to forest elephants, which are smaller than their savannah counterparts. These elephants are known for their intelligence and social behavior and can be seen in large groups in the park.
Chimpanzees
The park is also home to chimpanzees, which are the closest living relatives of humans. They are intelligent creatures and are known for their ability to use tools. Visitors can go on chimpanzee treks to see these fascinating creatures up close.
Hippos
The park is home to a large population of hippos, which can be seen in the rivers and lakes within the park. These massive creatures are often spotted resting in the water during the day and grazing on land at night, Virunga National Park And What You Should Expect
African Forest Buffalo
The African forest buffalo is a smaller and more agile cousin of the savannah buffalo. These animals are well adapted to living in the dense forests of the park and can be seen in large herds.
Virunga National Park is a wildlife lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of animals living in its rainforests, mountains, and rivers. From mountain gorillas to forest elephants, chimpanzees to hippos, the park offers visitors a unique opportunity to see some of the rarest and most fascinating creatures on the planet on your Congo safari tour. So, plan your trip to Virunga National Park and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife adventure.
