virunga_national_park

goma, drc

Virunga National Park, located in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), is Africa’s oldest national park (founded in 1925) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering 7,800 km², it is home to mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, forest elephants, lions, and over 700 bird species. The park features active volcanoes, including Mount Nyiragongo, with the world’s largest lava lake, and diverse landscapes from savannas to glaciers. Visitors can enjoy gorilla trekking, volcano hikes, and boat trips on Lake Edward. The best time to visit is June–September (dry season). Gorilla permits cost $400–$500, and the park is accessible via Goma, near the Rwanda border.