Although the best safari parks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) occasionally come with a travel warning, that doesn’t mean this erstwhile war-torn country should be discarded as a worthwhile African safari destination. The DRC remains the perfect destination for those who seek adventure.
The vast landscape is dissected by the mighty Congo River that ends in the Atlantic ocean and dominated by tropical rainforest, the second largest in the world. Captivating wildlife encounters abound, including coming face to face with the mountain and lowland gorillas. Geological wonders like active volcanoes and one of only four continuous lava lakes in the world on Mount Nyiragongo should also not be missed.
Since the DRC is not generally regarded as a safe destination, it is best to make use of a tour operator when planning on travelling to the country for a true wildlife experience bar none. Primate trekking is probably at the top when it comes to a safari bucket-list, and there is no better place than the DRC. These enthralling experiences take place in the Virunga National Park. Additionally, wildlife excursions can be undertaken in any of the other national parks and reserves of which there is a handful.
The country’s ecosystem affords shelter to at least four endemic species like the mountain gorilla, the okapi, the bonobo, and the Congolese peacock. Other rewarding sightings for visitors to this landscape occasionally shrouded in mist include some 1,500 mammal species including chimpanzees, the savannah giraffe, golden cat, lions, and various antelope species. There are also around 200 bird species.
Wild Safari Guide has narrowed the best safari parks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo down to these five excellent choices.