Established in 1970, Kahuzi-Biega National Park (also known as Parc National de Kahuzi-Biega) is located in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, near the border with Rwanda. It stretches from the Congo River Basin close to the Itebero-Utu area, about 50 kilometers northwest of Bukavu town. The park is famous for its eastern lowland gorillas, the Tshibati waterfalls, Mount Kahuzi, and Mount Biega.
Kahuzi-Biega lies close to both Rwanda and Burundi, covering mountainous and lowland terrain within the Albertine Rift. The western part of the park is dominated by thick equatorial forest, while the eastern section shows a clear transition from lowland to highland zones. Because of its rich biodiversity, it is considered the second-best gorilla trekking destination in the D.R. Congo after Virunga National Park.
Due to its unique rainforest ecosystem and large population of eastern lowland gorillas, the park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. Its main goal is to protect the forest, its mammals, primates, and plants for future generations to study and enjoy. The park’s name comes from two dormant volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi (3,308 m) and Mount Biega (2,790 m), both located in South Kivu Province.
Biodiversity & conservation
Conservation in Kahuzi-Biega has faced challenges due to the high human population around the park and years of civil unrest. Despite this, it remains home to one of the largest populations of Gorilla beringei graueri (eastern lowland gorillas), with about 250 individuals; around 80% of the world’s total population. These gorillas live mainly on the lower slopes between 2,100 and 2,400 meters above sea level. In the 1990s, the park had about 284 gorillas living in 25 families, but by 2004 only four families with around 40 individuals each were recorded.
Apart from gorillas, the park also shelters forest elephants, chimpanzees, and several monkey species, along with many types of birds. Over 1,178 plant species have been recorded in the high-altitude sector alone, making Kahuzi-Biega one of the few places in sub-Saharan Africa that shows a complete transition of vegetation from lowlands (600 m) to high mountains (3,308 m).
Lowland gorilla trekking
Kahuzi-Biega National Park is home to the world’s largest species of eastern lowland gorillas, making it a prime destination for gorilla trekking. Trekking involves hiking through the rain-forest with a trained guide, following paths based on where the gorilla families were last seen. The trek can take anywhere between 30 minutes and 6 hours.
Once the gorilla family is found, visitors spend one hour observing them, learning about their behaviors, and taking photos. This experience offers a rare and memorable opportunity to connect with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Nature walks
Visitors can also enjoy guided nature walks through the tropical rainforest. The Tshibati waterfalls are one of the park’s main attractions, offering a refreshing stop during the walk. Local community guides help visitors learn about different plants, animals, and the park’s ecosystem. Bird enthusiasts can also enjoy the calls of various bird species that fill the forest canopy.
Volcano hiking – Mount Kahuzi & Mount Biega
Besides gorilla trekking, visitors can hike the park’s two inactive volcanoes: Mount Kahuzi (3,308 m) and Mount Biega (2,790 m). These hikes reward travelers with panoramic views of the park, its forests, and nearby areas of Burundi and Rwanda. The bamboo and subalpine vegetation along the slopes are home to several mammals and primates, making the hike both scenic and educational.
Group tours to Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Although it remains one of Africa’s lesser-known destinations, Kahuzi-Biega National Park is an excellent choice for group safaris. Its combination of rainforest habitat, mountain scenery, and the presence of eastern lowland gorillas makes it a remarkable experience.
Group travelers can enjoy gorilla trekking, hiking Mount Kahuzi, visiting Tshibati waterfalls, or exploring the Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Center. The park also offers peaceful walks through the forest, opportunities to see rare plants and birds, and a refreshing atmosphere that rejuvenates the soul.
Accommodation in Kahuzi-Biega
Visitors to Kahuzi-Biega National Park have access to comfortable and affordable accommodation. Most lodges and hotels are located in Bukavu town, just a short drive from the park. Popular options include Orchids Safari Club, Horizon Hotel, Hotel Begonias Bukavu, Lakeside Hotel Bukavu, Exodus Bukavu, and Mount Kahuzi Hotel. There are also camping sites for budget travelers. These facilities offer warm hospitality, good food, and professional service.
