Exploring the Lomami National Park

Lomami National Park is a national park located in the Democratic Republic of Congo in Central Africa. Situated within the middle basin of the Lomami River, it straddles the Provinces of Tshopo and Maniema with a slight overlap into the forests of the Tshuapa and Lualaba river basins. The National Park was formally declared on 7 July 2016. It is the 9th national park in the country and the first to be created since 1992.

Lomami National Park consists of 8,879km² (887,900 hectares) of tropical lowland rainforest with savanna islands in the south and hills in the west. It is home to several nationally endemic species including Bonobo, Okapi, Congo peafowl, and a newly discovered primate species called Lesula, as well as the rare Dryas monkey known locally as Inoko. An important population of African forest elephants is still protected in the northern part of the park.

Timing of Lomami National Park

The best time to visit Lomami National Park is during the dry season, which is from June to September. The park is located in a tropical rainforest, and the dry season is the best time to see wildlife. The roads are also easier to navigate during the dry season.

The rainy season is from October to May. The park is still accessible during the rainy season, but the roads can be muddy and difficult to drive on. The wildlife is also more difficult to see during the rainy season, as they tend to be more active at night.

Here are some of the factors to consider when planning your trip to Lomami National Park:

The weather: The dry season is the best time to visit the park, as the weather is more predictable and the roads are easier to navigate.
The wildlife: The dry season is also the best time to see wildlife, as they are more active during this time.
Accommodation is available: It’s important to book your accommodation in advance due to the limited accommodation options in the park.
Your budget: The cost of travel and accommodation in the park can be high, so it is important to factor this into your budget when planning your trip.

Fees of Lomami National Park

The fees for visiting Lomami National Park vary depending on the type of activity you are doing and the number of people in your group.

Daily entrance fee:
- DRC citizens: USD 10
- Foreigners: USD 50
Park guide fee:
- DRC citizens: USD 20 per day
- Foreigners: USD 50 per day
Park camping fee:
- DRC citizens: USD 10 per person per night
- Foreigners: USD 50 per person per night
Park boat fee:
- DRC citizens: USD 20 per hour
- Foreigners: USD 50 per hour

Lomami National Park History

The history of Lomami National Park is a relatively short one. The park was formally declared on 7 July 2016, making it the 9th national park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the first to be created since 1992.

However, the history of the park’s creation goes back much further. In 2007, the Lukuru Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity in the Congo, began exploring the Lomami River basin. The foundation’s research revealed that the area was home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the bonobo, okapi, and Congo peacock.

The foundation’s work led to the creation of the TL2 Project, a long-term initiative to protect the biodiversity of the Lomami River basin. The project has also involved working with local communities, the Congolese government, and other partners to establish a national park in the area.

In 2016, the Congolese government officially declared the Lomami River basin a national park. The park covers an area of 8,879 square kilometers and is also a home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bonobos, okapis, Congo peacocks, forest elephants, and dryas monkeys.

The creation of Lomami National Park is a major victory for the conservation of biodiversity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park is also a valuable protected area that will help to safeguard the region’s unique wildlife for future generations.

Why Lomami national park is famous?

Lomami National Park is famous for a number of reasons. These include:

It is home to a number of rare and endangered species, including bonobos, okapis, and Congo peacocks, dryas monkey, and the forest elephant.
It is still largely unexplored, making it a potential destination for scientific research and ecotourism.
Furthermore, it is home to the only population of okapis in the wild. Okapis, known for their unique giraffe-like appearance, and also endangered.
It is one of the largest and most biodiverse national parks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park covers an area of over 8,000 square kilometers, and it is home to a wide variety of plants and animals.
It is located in a remote and pristine part of the Congo rainforest. This makes it a valuable refuge for wildlife, and it also makes it a potential destination for ecotourism.

Lomami River

The Lomami River is a tributary of the Congo River, in the central Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is about 1,450 kilometers (900 mi) in length. One of the world’s least explored rivers is the Lomami River.

The Lomami River rises in the Lomami Plateau, south of the Congo River. It flows north through the Sankuru Province and into the Congo River near the town of Basoko. The Lomami River is a major transportation route for the people of the Sankuru Province. It is also home to a variety of fish species, including the giant African tiger fish.

The Lomami River basin is also home to a number of endangered species, including the bonobo, the forest elephant, and the Congo peacock. The basin is also a key part of the Congo Basin rainforest, which is one of the world’s most important carbon sinks.

The Lomami River is also a valuable resource for the people of the Sankuru Province. However, the river is also under threat from deforestation, mining, and pollution. It is important to protect the Lomami River and its basin in order to preserve its biodiversity and ensure its continued use by local communities.

Lomami National Park animals

Lomami National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to a remarkable array of animals, including several endangered species. Nestled within the heart of the Congo Basin, the park’s dense tropical rainforests, savanna islands, and swampy lowlands provide a haven for a rich tapestry of wildlife.

Primates

Lomami National Park is renowned for its exceptional diversity of primates. The park is home to over 30 species of primates, including:

Bonobo (Pan paniscus): Known as the “gentle ape,” bonobos are the smaller cousins of chimpanzees and are renowned for their peaceful and matriarchal societies.
Okapi (Okapia johnstoni): This enigmatic forest giraffe is a unique and elusive creature, characterized by its zebra-like stripes and long prehensile tongue.
Dryas monkey (Cercopithecus dryas): Also known as the Inoko, this rare and elusive monkey species is found in scattered pockets of the park’s forests.
Congo peacock (Afropavo congensis): This stunning bird is the national bird of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is found in the park’s swampy and forested areas.

Other Mammals

Lomami National Park is also home to a variety of other mammals, including:

African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis): This forest-adapted elephant species is smaller than its savannah-dwelling counterpart and is an important seed disperser in the park’s ecosystem.
Giant pangolin (Smutsia gigantea): The largest of all pangolins, this scaly mammal is threatened by poaching for its scales used in traditional medicine.
Congo Basin wolf (Canis lupus africanus): This subspecies of gray wolf is found in the savanna and forested regions of Lomami National Park.
Hippotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius): These large aquatic mammals are found in the park’s rivers and swamps.

Birds and Reptiles

Lomami National Park is home to an abundance of birdlife, with over 400 species recorded, including:

Congo sunbird (Cinnyris congensis): This small, vibrantly colored bird is endemic to the Congo Basin and is a frequent visitor to the park’s flowering trees.
African fish eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer): This large bird of prey is found along the park’s rivers and lakes.
Forest hawk-eagle (Spizaetus africanus): This powerful raptor is found in the park’s dense forests and preys on a variety of birds and mammals.
Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus): The largest lizard in Africa, the Nile monitor is found in the park’s rivers and swamps.

The diverse wildlife of Lomami National Park is a testament to the importance of conserving these pristine rainforests. By protecting this unique ecosystem, we also safeguard the survival of these remarkable species for future generations to appreciate.

Lomami park lodges

Lomami National Park is a remote and pristine wilderness area in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and as a result, there are very few lodges or accommodation options within the park itself. However, there are a few options available for those who want to experience the park’s incredible biodiversity.

Bonobo Conservation Foundation (BCF) Ecotourism CampThe Bonobo Conservation Foundation (BCF) operates a small ecotourism camp on the banks of the Lomami River, just outside of the park’s boundaries. The camp offers basic but comfortable accommodations in tents and bandas, as well as opportunities to track bonobos in their natural habitat.

Lac Tumba Lodge

Lac Tumba Lodge is located on the shores of Lac Tumba, a large lake in the Sankuru Province, about 100 kilometers (62 mi) from Lomami National Park. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations in cottages and bungalows, as well as opportunities for boat trips on the lake, where you can see hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.

Lomami River Safaris

Lomami River Safaris is a local tour operator that offers multi-day trips to Lomami National Park. The company organizes boat trips on the Lomami River, as well as guided walks through the park’s forests. Guests can camp in the park or stay at the BCF Ecotourism Camp.

In addition to these options, there are also a few small villages located near the park’s boundaries where visitors can stay with local families. These homestays offer a more basic but authentic experience of Congolese culture.

Lomami National Park Tours

Lomami National Park, nestled within the heart of the Congo Basin, offers a unique and unforgettable wildlife adventure. While exploring this remote wilderness, you’ll encounter a diverse array of animals, including bonobos, okapis, and forest elephants, all thriving in their natural habitat.

Here are some of the top tour operators that offer Lomami National Park tours:

Bonobo Conservation Foundation (BCF): The BCF offers a comprehensive 5-day tour that combines bonobo trekking with immersive cultural experiences. You’ll also track bonobos in their natural habitat, learn about local traditions, and visit the BCF’s conservation efforts.
Lomami River Safaris: This local tour operator provides multi-day safaris into the depths of Lomami National Park. You’ll also embark on boat trips along the Lomami River, explore the park’s pristine forests and camp under the starry sky.
Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS): WCS offers exclusive access to Mbuye Island Camp, located within the park’s boundaries. This remote camp provides opportunities to track bonobos and chimpanzees, as well as engage in conservation activities.
African Gorilla Tours: This company specializes in wildlife adventures across Africa, including Lomami National Park. They also offer customized tours tailored to individual interests, ensuring an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Congo Travel and Tours: With extensive experience organizing trips to Lomami National Park, Congo Travel and Tours provides comprehensive tours that cater to different levels of adventure. They can also arrange logistics, transportation, and accommodation for a seamless experience.

It’s essential to note that Lomami National Park is a remote and challenging destination, requiring careful planning and preparation. Choose a reputable tour operator with experience in organizing trips to this region. They can guide you through the necessary permits, and transportation arrangements, and ensure a safe and enriching wildlife adventure.

Lomami Hiking Trails

Lomami National Park is home to a remarkable array of hiking trails, each offering a unique perspective on the park’s diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity. Whether you’re an experienced hiker seeking a challenging trek or a nature enthusiast looking for a leisurely stroll, Lomami’s trails cater to all levels of experience and interests.

Bonobo Falls Trail: This trail takes you on a journey to the mesmerizing Bonobo Falls, cascading down a series of rocky ledges amidst the lush rainforest. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of plant and animal life, including the park’s iconic bonobos.
Okapi Forest Trail: Venture into the heart of the Okapi Forest, where you might catch a glimpse of the elusive okapi, a striped relative of the giraffe. The trail meanders through dense woodlands, offering a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace.
Lesula Monkey Trail: Embark on an adventure in search of the newly discovered Lesula monkey, a primate endemic to Lomami National Park. This trail winds through the park’s diverse habitats, providing opportunities to spot a variety of monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.
Lomami River Trail: Hike along the banks of the mighty Lomami River, a lifeline to the park’s ecosystem. The trail offers stunning views of the river and its surrounding rainforests, teeming with life.
Mbuye Island Trail: Explore the remote Mbuye Island, accessible only by boat, for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. The trail leads you through the island’s pristine forests, where you might encounter bonobos, chimpanzees, and other wildlife.

These are just a few of the many hiking trails that Lomami National Park has to offer. With its diverse terrain, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking scenery, Lomami is a hiker’s paradise, waiting to be explored and appreciated.

Lomami National Park Accommodation

Lomami National Park is a remote location, and there are limited accommodation options within the park itself. However, there are a few options available for those who want to experience this incredible wilderness.

Bonobo Conservation Foundation (BCF) Ecotourism Camp: The BCF operates a small ecotourism camp on the banks of the Lomami River, just outside of the park’s boundaries. The camp offers basic but comfortable accommodations in tents and bandas, as well as opportunities to track bonobos in their natural habitat.
Lac Tumba Lodge: Lac Tumba Lodge is located on the shores of Lac Tumba, a large lake in the Sankuru Province, about 100 kilometers (62 mi) from Lomami National Park. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations in cottages and bungalows, as well as opportunities for boat trips on the lake, where you can see hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
Lomami River Safaris: Lomami River Safaris is a local tour operator that offers multi-day trips to Lomami National Park. The company organizes boat trips on the Lomami River, as well as guided walks through the park’s forests. Guests can camp in the park or stay at the BCF Ecotourism Camp.

Things to do in Lomami National Park

Some of the things you can do in Lomami National Park

Go on a wildlife safari: Lomami National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bonobos, okapis, Congo peacocks, forest elephants, and dryas monkeys. The best way to see the wildlife is to go on a safari with a guide.
Go bird watching: Lomami National Park is home to over 500 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Some of the birds you can see in the park include the Congo peafowl, the African fish eagle, and the pygmy kingfisher.
Go boating: The Lomami River runs through the park, and it is a popular spot for boating. You can go on a boat cruise to see the wildlife or go fishing.
Go hiking: Lomami National Park has a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the rainforest. The trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging, so there is something for everyone.
Support conservation efforts: Lomami National Park is a vital part of the Congo rainforest, and it is important to support conservation efforts. There are a number of organizations that work to protect the park, and you can donate to their work or volunteer your time.

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