Virunga National Park is located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It was established in 1925 as Albert National Park, making it the first national park in Africa. Later, its name was changed to Virunga National Park. In 1979, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Virunga National Park is one of the few places in the world where endangered mountain gorillas can be found. These gorillas live only in three countries, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda. The park is also famous for its active volcanoes, including Mount Nyiragongo and Mount Nyamuragira. Mount Nyiragongo last erupted in May 2021.
The park covers about 8,090 square kilometers and is divided into several sectors. Each sector offers different activities and accommodation options. It is important to know the sectors when planning a visit because activities and lodges are based in specific areas.
Central Sector (Lulimbi Sector)
The central sector, also known as the Lulimbi sector, is found near Lake Albert, close to the Uganda border. This area has open grasslands that extend from Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. Visitors may see elephants, hippos along the Ishasha River, Ugandan kobs, and sometimes tree climbing lions. This sector is good for bird watching and guided nature walks. Accommodation here includes Lulimbi Tented Camp.
Northern Sector
The northern sector is less developed and more remote. It covers parts of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Semuliki River, which is shared by Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This area is mainly known for mountain scenery and limited exploration.
Eastern Sector (Bukima Sector)
The eastern sector, commonly called the Bukima sector, is one of the most visited areas in Virunga National Park. This is where the park headquarters is located. Mountain gorilla trekking starts from this sector. Visitors can also visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage. A habituated chimpanzee family is also found here. Lodges in this sector include Mikeno Lodge and Bukima Tented Camp.
Southern Sector (Kibumba Sector)
The southern sector, also known as the Kibumba sector, includes Mount Nyiragongo, Mount Nyamuragira, and Mount Mikeno. It also stretches toward Lake Kivu. Activities here include mountain gorilla trekking, guided nature walks, bird watching, and mountain hiking. Visitors staying in this sector usually sleep at Kibumba Tented Camp.
Virunga National Park offers different experiences across its sectors, making it one of Africa’s most important protected areas.
