What to see on a Congo safari ?
The Republic of Congo is a fascinating African destination for safari enthusiasts.
A very safe and very wild country, which for a long time remained far from the tourist routes, it is now opening up in part thanks to the travel possibilities offered by Ducret Expeditions, the first Congolese tour operator to offer safari cruises on the Congo and Sangha rivers in the heart of rainforest.
What animals to observe during a Congo safari cruise ?
Lowland gorillas: The Nouabalé Ndoki National Park, located in the north of the Republic of Congo, is one of the few places in the world where lowland gorillas can be observed in their natural habitat. The lowland gorilla is an endangered species.
Hippopotamuses: Hippopotamuses are fascinating animals to observe during a safari. They spend most of their time in water and are known for their aggressive behavior towards humans. The Congo River is one of the best places to observe these giant animals. Visitors can take boat safaris to get up close to hippos in their natural habitat.
Forest elephants: Nouabalé Ndoki National Park is a paradise for forest elephants. Visitors can watch these majestic animals move in herds through the dense, humid forest. Local guides will share their knowledge of elephant behavior and conservation efforts to protect these endangered animals.
Birds: The Congo is an amazing place for birdwatching. The country is home to over 1000 species of birds, some of which are endemic to the region. Visitors can observe a variety of birds such as hornbills, parrots, eagles, ibises, flamingos and many more.
Nouabalé Ndoki National Park: a safari away from the crowds
Nouabalé Ndoki National Park is one of the largest nature reserves in Central Africa, located in northern Congo. With an area of more than 4,000 km², the park is home to a great diversity of animal and plant species. The park is considered one of the most remarkable places in the world for the study of great apes, in particular the western lowland gorillas.
The park was established in 1993 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. The park is divided into three main areas: the Kouyou basin, the Sangha basin, and the transition zone. Each area is home to a variety of unique animal and plant species. It is a wonderful place to go on a safari away from the crowds in a very preserved territory.
It is home to many primates, including western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, monkeys, mandrills and colobus monkeys. Western lowland gorillas are a critically endangered species, with an estimated population of less than 5,000 individuals. The park is therefore of great importance for the conservation of this species.
The Nouabalé Ndoki gorillas have been studied for over 25 years. Researchers have studied their social behavior, reproduction, diet and habitat. The information collected has led to a better understanding of the biology and ecology of this critically endangered species.
Nouabalé Ndoki is also home to a wide variety of birds including parrots, hornbills, eagles and vultures that can be seen on Congo Safari. The park’s wetlands are also an important habitat for many species of fish and reptiles, including crocodiles.
The park is also known for its spectacular landscapes, with a wide variety of forest types including transitional forest, lowland forest, and montane forest. Visitors can also observe many species of plants, including orchids and lianas.
It offers eco-tourism opportunities for visitors looking to explore nature while preserving the environment. Congo Safaris are guided and visitors can observe gorillas, chimpanzees, forest elephants and other species in their natural habitat.
Nouabalé Ndoki National Park also offers research opportunities for scientists interested in the biology and ecology of gorillas and other species. Researchers can work with local rangers to collect data and conduct studies on the park’s biodiversity.
Nouabalé Ndoki in Congo is an important conservation location for western lowland gorillas and other critically endangered species. The park is an example of how nature conservation can be combined with ecological tourism and scientific research. Visitors can see rare species.
What to see during a Congo safari in Nouabalé Ndoki National Park?
It is inhabited by a wide variety of animal species, some of which are threatened with extinction. Among the animals that can be seen in the park are lowland gorillas, forest elephants, chimpanzees, leopards, pangolins, crocodiles, monkeys and rare birds.
The best way to explore the park is on a guided safari. The safaris are organized by experienced guides who are familiar with the fauna and flora of the park, and who can provide interesting information on the different animal and plant species.
Boat safaris are particularly popular, as they offer great views of the rainforest and allow visitors to see animals from a different vantage point. Crocodiles and hippos are often seen in the rivers and swamps, and monkeys and birds can be seen in the trees along the banks. Find our Safari itinerary here.
Walking safaris are also very popular, as they offer a more immersive experience of the rainforest. Guides can lead visitors through hidden trails in the forest, where they can observe animals such as gorillas, chimpanzees and forest elephants. Walking safaris require good physical condition and visitors should follow safety guidelines to avoid dangerous encounters with wild animals.
The Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park is an essential destination for nature and adventure lovers. Guided game drives offer a unique experience to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, and the park’s conservation efforts ensure that these species will be preserved for future generations. Visitors should, however, be aware of potential dangers and follow safety guidelines to fully enjoy their experience in the park.
Western lowland gorillas: an astonishing encounter during a Congo safari
Lowland gorillas are a species of primate that lives in central Africa, in dense and humid forests. They are considered one of the most impressive and powerful great apes on the planet, with amazing muscular strength.
Lowland gorillas can weigh up to 200 kilos and stand up to 1.8 meters in height. They have very long arms and powerful hands, with prehensile fingers that allow them to climb trees with surprising ease. Their fur is thick and dense, black or gray in color.
These gorillas are primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, stems, fruits, and berries. They spend most of their time foraging, traveling great distances each day to find sufficient food sources.
Lowland gorillas are divided into two subspecies: eastern gorillas and western gorillas. Eastern gorillas are the most widespread, with an estimated population of around 5,000 individuals. Western gorillas, on the other hand, are critically endangered, with an estimated population of less than 5,000 individuals.
Lowland gorillas are very social animals, living in family groups led by a dominant male called the “silverback”. Groups can have up to 30 members, including females, young, and subordinate males. The groups move together in the forest, feeding and resting together.
Communication in lowland gorillas is very important, with a variety of sounds and gestures used to communicate information. Gorillas can growl, roar, scream and cough to communicate with other members of their group.
Lowland gorillas are threatened by hunting and loss of their natural habitat. Conservation efforts have been put in place to protect these gorillas, notably through the creation of nature reserves and raising public awareness of their precarious situation.
During Ducret Expeditions safari cruises in the Congo, it is possible to observe habituated gorillas which are followed by scientists. At less than ten meters, we can really realize the strength of these animals
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