Garamba National Park is a protected area found in the northeastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park covers about 5,200 square kilometers and was established in 1938. It is one of the oldest national parks in Africa and plays an important role in wildlife conservation in Congo.
Garamba National Park is known for its rich wildlife and birdlife. The park is home to more than 138 species of mammals and about 286 recorded bird species. In the past, the park supported large numbers of elephants and rhinos. Sadly, the last rhinos in Garamba National Park were seen in the year 2000.
In 1980, Garamba National Park was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its natural value and wildlife importance. In the 1960s and 1970s, the park had one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, with about 20,000 elephants. Due to heavy poaching and insecurity, this number dropped greatly, and by 2017, only about 2,000 elephants remained in the park.
The park has over 1,000 species of trees, with about 5 percent found only in this area. Garamba National Park is supported by three main rivers, which help sustain wildlife throughout the year. These are the Garamba River, Dungu River, and Aka River. The park lies close to the border between Congo and Sudan.
Wildlife & Birds
Garamba National Park supports many animal species. During game drives, visitors may see buffalos, elephants, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, giant forest hogs, duikers, bush pigs, warthogs, waterbuck, mongoose, and golden cats. The park is also home to several primates such as vervet monkeys, De Brazza monkeys, and olive baboons.
Bird watching is another key activity in Garamba National Park. The park has recorded over 550 bird species, making it a good destination for bird lovers. Some birds commonly seen include knob billed ducks, water thick knees, squacco herons, pied kingfishers, African fishing eagles, wattled plovers, long tailed cormorants, pink backed pelicans, white backed pelicans, spur winged plovers, and black crakes.
Fishing & Boat Cruises
Fishing is allowed in some areas of Garamba National Park, mainly along the rivers. Fishing must be done with the guidance of a park ranger and only in approved locations. Visitors interested in fishing should bring their own fishing equipment.
Boat cruises along the rivers offer another way to explore the park. These cruises allow visitors to see wildlife along the riverbanks and observe many water birds in their natural setting.
Best time to Visit & Accommodation
Garamba National Park can be visited throughout the year. The best time to visit is from June to December, when vegetation is shorter and wildlife is easier to see. During the rainy season, some roads may be difficult to use.
Accommodation options depend on budget and preference. Common places to stay include Plaza Hotel, Hotel Kisangani, New Cosmos Hotel, Flat Hotel Petit Zoo, and La Trumpette Hotel.
