Maiko National Park is located in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is one of the most remote national parks in the country and covers about 10,885 square kilometers. The park stretches across three regions, which include Province Orientale, Maniema, and areas north of Lake Kivu. Because of its remote location, Maiko National Park remains largely untouched and is important for wildlife conservation.
Maiko National Park was first created by the Belgian colonial government as the Bakumu Hunting Reserve. The goal was to protect wildlife and land from mineral exploitation. In November 1970, the reserve was officially upgraded to a national park through a presidential decree by Joseph Desire Mobutu.
Since the early 2000s, conservation work has increased in the park. The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund carried out surveys in the southern part of Maiko National Park for more than ten years. In 2005, these studies recorded a higher number of gorillas than earlier research had shown. The park has received support from the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund since 2003 and is now believed to be home to about 800 eastern lowland gorillas.
Gorilla Trekking, Birds & Wildlife
Maiko National Park is the second main place in Congo where visitors can trek eastern lowland gorillas, after Kahuzi-Biega National Park. Gorilla trekking in Maiko offers a quiet and natural experience because few tourists visit the park. Eastern lowland gorillas are different from mountain gorillas. They are larger in size and live in lower altitude forests.
Besides gorillas, Maiko National Park supports many wildlife species. These include forest elephants, okapi, aquatic genets, eastern chimpanzees, leopards, bush pigs, bushbucks, warthogs, and many other forest animals. Because the park is rarely visited, animals live freely with little human disturbance.
The park is also rich in birdlife. Many bird species live in Maiko, including some that are only found in this region. Birds recorded in the park include broadbills, pitas, sparrows, cormorants, turacos, egrets, herons, and kingfishers. Bird watching in Maiko National Park is suitable for travelers who enjoy quiet forest environments.
Culture & Nature Walks
Maiko National Park has thick rainforests and high altitude areas that are good for nature walks and hiking. There are several forest trails, and each leads to different parts of the park. During these walks, visitors can see plant species, butterflies, birds, and signs of wildlife. Some trails also lead to viewpoints where you can enjoy wide forest views.
Communities living around the park offer cultural experiences. Visitors can meet local people, learn about their daily lives, and enjoy traditional dances. Tourists can also support the communities by buying handmade crafts, which helps improve local livelihoods.
Accommodation & Access
Maiko National Park is less developed than other national parks in Congo. There are no lodges or permanent accommodations inside the park. Visitors usually bring their own camping equipment and camp in designated areas or stay in nearby villages.
The park can be accessed from the Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Beni, Goma, or Butembo. Travelers are advised to use four wheel drive vehicles, especially during the rainy season when roads are difficult.
Maiko National Park can be visited all year, but the best time to visit is during the dry months from June to August. During this period, roads and forest trails are easier to use, making travel and activities more comfortable.
