1 safari lodges
    Western Congo Basin, Republic of Congo
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: High

    Safari in Sanctuaire des Gorilles de Lossi

    Sanctuaire des Gorilles de Lossi is a protected area in Republic of Congo.

    Best timeYear-round destination with two dry seasons. Conditions vary locally - check the specific region for dry season timing.
    Species
    22
    Big Five
    2/5
    Lodges
    1
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Sanctuaire des Gorilles de Lossi Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    The African Big 5

    2 of 5 found in Sanctuaire des Gorilles de Lossi

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Sanctuaire des Gorilles de Lossi

    Sign in to report

    22 species recorded in Sanctuaire des Gorilles de Lossi3 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Sanctuaire des Gorilles de Lossi

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Sanctuaire des Gorilles de Lossi

    For the ultimate western lowland gorilla encounters, we believe the dry season from June to August offers the most comfortable trekking conditions and the best chances for sightings. However, the...

    January

    Now
    low

    Short Rains

    Expect frequent, short downpours, especially in the afternoon. Temperatures remain warm and humid.

    The forest is lush and vibrant, offering excellent photographic opportunities. Birding is particularly good as resident birds are active.

    We love the dramatic skies and the feeling of having the rainforest almost to ourselves this time of year.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    February

    low

    Short Rains

    Rainfall continues, though it may start to lessen towards the end of the month. Humidity is high.

    The rains bring out insects and amphibians, creating a lively ecosystem. Mammal sightings can be good as animals seek out water sources.

    We find February offers a unique intimacy with the jungle, a time when the sounds of the forest are amplified by the moisture.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    March

    low

    Short Rains / Green Season

    The transition month sees rainfall decreasing, but expect lingering showers. The landscape is incredibly green.

    The post-rain greenery makes for stunning backdrops. Forest elephants and gorillas are active, and the birdlife is superb.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    April

    low

    Green Season

    This is the heart of the green season with significant rainfall, though often in intense bursts. Trails can be muddy.

    The rainforest is at its most verdant. It's a fantastic time for tracking gorillas and observing forest elephants, though movement might be slower due to the wet conditions.

    We recommend April for photographers seeking the ultimate lush rainforest aesthetic and fewer visitors.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    May

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall remains high, making the forest dense and humid. Expect daily showers.

    The abundance of water and vegetation supports abundant wildlife. Birding is excellent, and primate sightings are generally reliable.

    We love the feeling of being deep within a thriving, untouched ecosystem during May's heavy rains.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Rainfall significantly decreases, leading to drier conditions. Humidity drops, making it more comfortable.

    As water sources become more concentrated, wildlife viewing can improve. Gorillas and forest elephants are often easier to track.

    We find June to be an ideal balance, with drier trails and still-lush scenery for exceptional gorilla tracking.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    July

    moderate

    Dry Season

    This is typically the driest month, with minimal rainfall and lower humidity. Conditions are very comfortable.

    Excellent conditions for tracking primates and observing forest elephants. The drier forest floor makes movement easier for both animals and trackers.

    We strongly recommend July for the best chance of consistent gorilla sightings and comfortable trekking conditions.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    August

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry conditions persist, though occasional brief showers are possible. Humidity remains low.

    Prime time for wildlife viewing. The concentrated water sources attract a variety of animals, and primate tracking is at its peak.

    We love August for the sheer ease of movement through the forest and the high probability of incredible wildlife encounters.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season / Short Rains

    The dry season continues, but the first signs of the short rains may appear towards the end of the month. Conditions are still generally dry.

    Wildlife remains active and visible. Birding can be excellent as resident species are active.

    We think September offers a great transition, with the benefits of the dry season and the first hints of the forest reawakening.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    October

    low

    Short Rains

    Expect increasing rainfall, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Humidity starts to rise.

    The forest begins to green up again. It's a good time for birding and observing the forest's response to the returning moisture.

    We appreciate October for the dramatic weather patterns and the vibrant, renewed energy of the rainforest.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Rainfall is frequent, though usually not continuous. The air is warm and humid.

    The lush vegetation provides excellent cover for primates. The abundance of food means animals are generally well-fed and active.

    We find November offers a truly immersive jungle experience, with the sounds and smells of the rainforest at their most intense.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    December

    low

    Short Rains / Green Season

    Rainfall continues, marking the transition into the green season. Expect warm, humid conditions with regular showers.

    The forest is incredibly dense and alive. It's a beautiful time for tracking gorillas, though trails can be challenging.

    We love December for the sheer wildness and the feeling of exploring a truly untamed environment.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Short Rains

    Expect frequent, short downpours, especially in the afternoon. Temperatures remain warm and humid.

    The forest is lush and vibrant, offering excellent photographic opportunities. Birding is particularly good as resident birds are active.

    We love the dramatic skies and the feeling of having the rainforest almost to ourselves this time of year.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    February

    low

    Short Rains

    Rainfall continues, though it may start to lessen towards the end of the month. Humidity is high.

    The rains bring out insects and amphibians, creating a lively ecosystem. Mammal sightings can be good as animals seek out water sources.

    We find February offers a unique intimacy with the jungle, a time when the sounds of the forest are amplified by the moisture.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    March

    low

    Short Rains / Green Season

    The transition month sees rainfall decreasing, but expect lingering showers. The landscape is incredibly green.

    The post-rain greenery makes for stunning backdrops. Forest elephants and gorillas are active, and the birdlife is superb.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    April

    low

    Green Season

    This is the heart of the green season with significant rainfall, though often in intense bursts. Trails can be muddy.

    The rainforest is at its most verdant. It's a fantastic time for tracking gorillas and observing forest elephants, though movement might be slower due to the wet conditions.

    We recommend April for photographers seeking the ultimate lush rainforest aesthetic and fewer visitors.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    May

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall remains high, making the forest dense and humid. Expect daily showers.

    The abundance of water and vegetation supports abundant wildlife. Birding is excellent, and primate sightings are generally reliable.

    We love the feeling of being deep within a thriving, untouched ecosystem during May's heavy rains.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Rainfall significantly decreases, leading to drier conditions. Humidity drops, making it more comfortable.

    As water sources become more concentrated, wildlife viewing can improve. Gorillas and forest elephants are often easier to track.

    We find June to be an ideal balance, with drier trails and still-lush scenery for exceptional gorilla tracking.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    July

    moderate

    Dry Season

    This is typically the driest month, with minimal rainfall and lower humidity. Conditions are very comfortable.

    Excellent conditions for tracking primates and observing forest elephants. The drier forest floor makes movement easier for both animals and trackers.

    We strongly recommend July for the best chance of consistent gorilla sightings and comfortable trekking conditions.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    August

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry conditions persist, though occasional brief showers are possible. Humidity remains low.

    Prime time for wildlife viewing. The concentrated water sources attract a variety of animals, and primate tracking is at its peak.

    We love August for the sheer ease of movement through the forest and the high probability of incredible wildlife encounters.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season / Short Rains

    The dry season continues, but the first signs of the short rains may appear towards the end of the month. Conditions are still generally dry.

    Wildlife remains active and visible. Birding can be excellent as resident species are active.

    We think September offers a great transition, with the benefits of the dry season and the first hints of the forest reawakening.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    October

    low

    Short Rains

    Expect increasing rainfall, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Humidity starts to rise.

    The forest begins to green up again. It's a good time for birding and observing the forest's response to the returning moisture.

    We appreciate October for the dramatic weather patterns and the vibrant, renewed energy of the rainforest.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Rainfall is frequent, though usually not continuous. The air is warm and humid.

    The lush vegetation provides excellent cover for primates. The abundance of food means animals are generally well-fed and active.

    We find November offers a truly immersive jungle experience, with the sounds and smells of the rainforest at their most intense.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    December

    low

    Short Rains / Green Season

    Rainfall continues, marking the transition into the green season. Expect warm, humid conditions with regular showers.

    The forest is incredibly dense and alive. It's a beautiful time for tracking gorillas, though trails can be challenging.

    We love December for the sheer wildness and the feeling of exploring a truly untamed environment.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Short Rains

    Expect frequent, short downpours, especially in the afternoon. Temperatures remain warm and humid.

    The forest is lush and vibrant, offering excellent photographic opportunities. Birding is particularly good as resident birds are active.

    We love the dramatic skies and the feeling of having the rainforest almost to ourselves this time of year.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    February

    low

    Short Rains

    Rainfall continues, though it may start to lessen towards the end of the month. Humidity is high.

    The rains bring out insects and amphibians, creating a lively ecosystem. Mammal sightings can be good as animals seek out water sources.

    We find February offers a unique intimacy with the jungle, a time when the sounds of the forest are amplified by the moisture.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    March

    low

    Short Rains / Green Season

    The transition month sees rainfall decreasing, but expect lingering showers. The landscape is incredibly green.

    The post-rain greenery makes for stunning backdrops. Forest elephants and gorillas are active, and the birdlife is superb.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    April

    low

    Green Season

    This is the heart of the green season with significant rainfall, though often in intense bursts. Trails can be muddy.

    The rainforest is at its most verdant. It's a fantastic time for tracking gorillas and observing forest elephants, though movement might be slower due to the wet conditions.

    We recommend April for photographers seeking the ultimate lush rainforest aesthetic and fewer visitors.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    May

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall remains high, making the forest dense and humid. Expect daily showers.

    The abundance of water and vegetation supports abundant wildlife. Birding is excellent, and primate sightings are generally reliable.

    We love the feeling of being deep within a thriving, untouched ecosystem during May's heavy rains.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Rainfall significantly decreases, leading to drier conditions. Humidity drops, making it more comfortable.

    As water sources become more concentrated, wildlife viewing can improve. Gorillas and forest elephants are often easier to track.

    We find June to be an ideal balance, with drier trails and still-lush scenery for exceptional gorilla tracking.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    July

    moderate

    Dry Season

    This is typically the driest month, with minimal rainfall and lower humidity. Conditions are very comfortable.

    Excellent conditions for tracking primates and observing forest elephants. The drier forest floor makes movement easier for both animals and trackers.

    We strongly recommend July for the best chance of consistent gorilla sightings and comfortable trekking conditions.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    August

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry conditions persist, though occasional brief showers are possible. Humidity remains low.

    Prime time for wildlife viewing. The concentrated water sources attract a variety of animals, and primate tracking is at its peak.

    We love August for the sheer ease of movement through the forest and the high probability of incredible wildlife encounters.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season / Short Rains

    The dry season continues, but the first signs of the short rains may appear towards the end of the month. Conditions are still generally dry.

    Wildlife remains active and visible. Birding can be excellent as resident species are active.

    We think September offers a great transition, with the benefits of the dry season and the first hints of the forest reawakening.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    October

    low

    Short Rains

    Expect increasing rainfall, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Humidity starts to rise.

    The forest begins to green up again. It's a good time for birding and observing the forest's response to the returning moisture.

    We appreciate October for the dramatic weather patterns and the vibrant, renewed energy of the rainforest.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Rainfall is frequent, though usually not continuous. The air is warm and humid.

    The lush vegetation provides excellent cover for primates. The abundance of food means animals are generally well-fed and active.

    We find November offers a truly immersive jungle experience, with the sounds and smells of the rainforest at their most intense.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park

    December

    low

    Short Rains / Green Season

    Rainfall continues, marking the transition into the green season. Expect warm, humid conditions with regular showers.

    The forest is incredibly dense and alive. It's a beautiful time for tracking gorillas, though trails can be challenging.

    We love December for the sheer wildness and the feeling of exploring a truly untamed environment.

    Odzala-Kokoua National Park
    Nouabale-Ndoki National Park
    Planning & reference

    The raw, untamed beauty of the Lossi Sanctuary is unparalleled; tracking gorillas here feels like stepping back in time. We love the profound connection you forge with these magnificent creatures in such a pristine, uncrowded environment. The intimate encounters are truly life-changing.

    Gate Times

    Access to the sanctuary is strictly controlled and requires pre-arranged permits. There are no fixed gate times as visits are scheduled with your lodge and guides. We recommend confirming your entry and exit times with your accommodation well in advance, as they coordinate directly with sanctuary management. Expect early morning departures for gorilla tracking.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and appreciated. For your gorilla tracking guides and rangers, we suggest around $20-30 per person per day, given at the end of your trek. For lodge staff, a general tip of $10-15 per person per day can be pooled and distributed. Always tip in US dollars or Euros, discreetly in an envelope.

    Dress Code

    Think neutral, earthy tones for clothing to blend in with the environment. Long sleeves and trousers are essential for protection against insects and vegetation, especially on gorilla treks. We recommend lightweight, breathable fabrics. Pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings. Avoid bright colours and camouflage patterns.

    Photography

    Photography is generally permitted, but always ask your guide before taking close-up shots of gorillas, especially if they seem agitated. Flash photography is strictly forbidden as it can disturb the animals. Drones are not allowed within the sanctuary. We advise using a camera with a good zoom lens to capture intimate moments without getting too close.

    Etiquette

    Maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife, especially the gorillas. Keep noise levels to an absolute minimum during treks and when observing gorillas. Never attempt to touch or feed the animals. Follow your guide's instructions at all times. In camp, be mindful of other guests and maintain a quiet atmosphere, particularly during early mornings and late evenings.

    What to Bring

    High-strength insect repellent (DEET recommended)
    Lightweight, waterproof rain jacket
    Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
    Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (quick-dry material)
    Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat
    Reusable water bottle
    Binoculars
    Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
    Small backpack for day trips
    Personal first-aid kit
    Hand sanitizer
    Malaria prophylaxis (consult your doctor)

    Temperature

    24.83°C

    77°F · Range: 20.76–30.78°C

    Rainfall

    50.7 mm

    Moderate rain · 10.2 rainy days

    Humidity

    81.7%

    Sunshine

    9.6 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    2.57 m/s

    9.3 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Sanctuaire des Gorilles de Lossi Reviews