Visit Garamba National Park

Garamba Travel Information

When to visit

December to February

During this time, the grass has died down somewhat, which is good for visibility, and increases chances of seeing some mammals, as well as grasshopper buzzards before they migrate elsewhere. During night drives, standard-winged nightjars can be found on the roads. Wildfires and controlled burns take place at this point, as well as villagers burn their fields after harvesting. While this makes the air dusty and limits visibility, beautiful sunrises and sunsets with spectacular red skies can be seen.

March to May

New grass is starting to grow, skies are becoming clearer, and it rains a little bit more. Animals can still be seen easily as the grass is not that high. In March, there is a good chance of seeing big flocks of Abdim storks and other migratory birds, including the northern carmine bee-eaters. The typical Garamba landscape scene with dramatic skies and a sea of green can be photographed. Solitary elephants are regularly seen near the Nagero station searching for mangoes.

June to August

The grass is getting higher as occasional showers increase. This brings out the various green shades of the landscape. While the higher grass makes it a little more difficult to spot animals, every sighting is stunning in the lush vegetation. Due to the unpredictable development of rainfall and grass growth, international tourism is discouraged from July.

September to November

The park is closed to tourism due to flooding until around Christmas. Humidity increases and there are longer, more frequent periods of rain. Towards the end of November the dry season usually begins.

 

Where to stay

Garamba Lodge, managed by African Parks, is located just outside the park and can accommodate up to 20 guests in its 8 twin and 2 double rooms.

Contact details: [email protected] | WhatsApp: +243 836 171 501

Need to know

The park is open from January to August with limited to no access during the other months. Garamba Lodge is open all year round.

Health essentials

A yellow fever vaccination is compulsory to enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Garamba is a malaria area, so it is advised that visitors consult their doctor for detailed information. Further, it is recommended that the necessary precautions are taken to avoid getting bitten (insect repellents, long sleeves and trousers).

Tsetse flies can be a problem in certain parts of the park. Tsetse flies tend to be attracted to dark colours such as blue and black so earthy colours such as khaki and beige are recommended.

Please note that the sun is very strong. It is recommended to bring a hat and a good sunscreen and it is advisable to wear long sleeves and trousers as additional protection against sunburn.

Travel essentials

French is widely spoken in the DRC, along with a limited amount of English. The main local language is Lingala with several other languages spoken in local communities surrounding Garamba.

To visit the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a visa must be obtained at the embassy in advance, and includes a letter of invitation. The letter of invitation will be provided by Garamba Lodge on request.

The local currency is the Congolese Franc (CDF), however all tourism services at Garamba Lodge are charged in USD and must be paid for in USD cash or via bank transfer. Credit cards are not accepted at Garamba Lodge. USD bills that are older than 2017 are not accepted. Further, they must not show any damage including small holes, tears, missing pieces and graffiti.

Safety essentials

Many regions of the eastern DRC remain unstable, and most governments advise against visiting the area. Garamba is an anchor for regional stability and secured with 24-hour protection by our patrolling anti-poaching teams.