A Prefect 8 Day Odzala Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Itinerary
A Prefect 8 Day Odzala Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Itinerary. An 8-day Odzala gorilla trekking trip offers a wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of the Congo, with costs ranging from approximately $9,000 to $12,000 for an all-inclusive package, though specific pricing varies by operator. The itinerary typically involves private charter flights from Brazzaville, transfers to camps like Ngaga Lodge, and gorilla tracking activities alongside other wildlife viewing, such as river safaris and walking safaris.
Your 8 Day Odzala Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Itinerary expedition commences with a private flight from Brazzaville to Mboko airstrip, succeeded by a picturesque safari drive to Ngaga Lodge, your accommodation for the initial three nights. Engage in gorilla tracking and traverse the forests with guided excursions. Proceed to Lango Lodge for a two-night stay, where you may navigate the placid Lekoli River and witness diverse species in a quiet environment.
At Mboko Lodge, partake in leisurely pursuits including strolling, canoeing, and avian observation. Each lodge offers luxurious lodgings, comprehensive meal service, and guided activities for a seamless and engaging stay. Conclude your journey with a game drive to the airfield, contemplating your wildlife encounters prior to returning to Brazzaville. This expedition provides both wildlife observations and an understanding of the distinctive environment of the Congo Basin.
A Complete 8 Day Odzala Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Odzala-Kokoua National Park
Your expedition commences with a private flight from Brazzaville to the Mboko airstrip in Odzala-Kokoua National Park. The flight, departing at 1 PM on Mondays or Thursdays, has a duration of approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival, the Kamba staff will greet you and escort you on a 2–3-hour safari drive through the park’s magnificent savanna and rainforest. You will reach your accommodation for the next three nights, Ngaga Lodge, where you may acclimatise and appreciate the environment. This evening, convene around the fire for a briefing on gorilla tracking to prepare for your forthcoming adventure.
Staying at Ngaga Lodge
Day 2: Primate Encounters Await
On the second day, you will go on your inaugural gorilla hike in the deep forests surrounding Ngaga Lodge. Accompanied by skilled trackers, you will traverse the forest trails in pursuit of Western Lowland Gorillas, an experience that guarantees intimate interactions with these intriguing primates. The trip lasts approximately 2-4 hours, contingent upon the gorillas’ location, and is an exceptionally gratifying experience. In the afternoon, relax at the lodge or choose a guided walk through the adjacent rainforest to explore the local fauna. The lodge includes meals and beverages.
Day 3: Exploring the Rainforest
Commence your day with an additional gorilla hike, exploring farther into the rainforest while observing the gorillas in their natural environment. This opportunity enables you to observe their daily behaviours and relationships, rendering it an extraordinary wildlife experience. Post-lunch, engage in a guided woodland walk to examine the flora and wildlife, or partake in a cultural tour to a nearby hamlet (upon request) to gain insights into local traditions. The evening concludes with a magnificent sunset, appreciating the forest’s splendour as day transitions to night.
Day 4: Kayaking on the Lekoli
Following breakfast, partake in a concluding stroll through Ngaga’s pristine rainforest prior to your expedition to Mboko Lodge, which is roughly a two-hour drive away. Upon arrival at Mboko, you will check in and eat lunch before to commencing a kayaking expedition down the serene Lekoli River. While you navigate, remain vigilant for frolicsome monkeys, forest elephants, buffalo, and colourful birds along the riverbanks. The expedition proceeds on foot, guiding you to the scenic Lango Bai just in time for a sunset drink. Your stay at Lango Lodge will encompass the next two nights, inclusive of guided activities, food, and beverages.
Day 5: Exploring Lango Lodge’s Wonders
Today focusses on discovering the unspoiled wilderness of Lango Lodge. You will traverse the paths of elephants on foot through streams, woodlands, and open baïs, immersing yourself in this captivating landscape. Navigate the Baï and Lekoli Rivers while observing green pigeons, forest buffalo, and, if fortunate, a bongo or a forest elephant. The distant calls of chimpanzees resonate as you across the lake, uncovering the enchanting woodlands of Lango. Your guide will enhance your trip by providing insights into the varied flora and wildlife of this fragile ecosystem, rendering today an indelible adventure.
Staying at Lango Lodge
Day 6: Walking Safari and River Cruise
Commence your day with an early morning walking safari at sunrise, succeeded by a substantial breakfast. Subsequently, you will depart from Lango Lodge, traversing the marshes on an elevated wooden walkway before embarking on a picturesque game drive to Mboko Lodge, situated at the confluence of the forest and savanna. Post-lunch, select either an energising forest stroll or a tranquil afternoon on the river deck. As the day concludes, commence a late afternoon river cruise, traversing the meandering streams that interlace the savannas. Stay for two nights at Mboko Lodge, which includes guided activities, meals, and beverages.
Staying at Mboko Lodge
Day 7: Adventure Awaits at Mboko Lodge
Today, partake in a day of adventure with your guide, uncovering the breathtaking riverbanks and woodlands of Odzala-Kokoua National Park. Seek vivid avifauna, forest elephants, and the elusive bongo antelope while traversing this diverse terrain.
Your pursuits encompass walking, rowing, and kayaking across the stunning ecosystems of the Congo Basin. Immerse yourself in the pristine waters of the streams or unwind on the river deck, seeing monkeys and butterflies while the tranquil sounds of the river surround you.
Day 8: Farewell to Odzala-Kokoua
Following breakfast, embark on a game drive across the savanna, absorbing the final vistas of the stunning landscapes and fauna of Odzala-Kokoua National Park. Your journey concludes with a picturesque drive to Mboko airport, where Kamba’s private aircraft will await your return flight to Brazzaville. The flight length is roughly 2 hours, providing an opportunity to contemplate the memorable memories from your visit. Embark on your international flight, cherishing enduring memories of the remarkable animals and unspoiled rainforests of the Republic of Congo.
End of the 8 Day Odzala Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Itinerary
Inclusions
- Return charter flight from Brazzaville to Mboko.
- Daily guided activities, including gorilla trekking.
- Boat cruise and kayak safari.
- All meals and drinks as listed.
Exclusions
- International flights to/from Republic of Congo.
- Single supplements.
- Activities/meals not specified as included.
- Gratuities and expenses of a personal nature.
