Salonga National Park- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Salonga National Park, located in the heart of the Congo River basin, is Africa's largest tropical rainforest reserve, covering approximately 36,000 km². Established as a national park in 1956 and later designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, it protects a vast and biodiverse ecosystem. The park is home to many rare and endangered species, including bonobos, forest elephants, and the Congo peafowl, while also supporting a variety of mammals, birds, and fish. Its remote location, accessible primarily by river, has helped preserve the park's ecological integrity, although it faces ongoing challenges from poaching and habitat destruction. In 2021, Salonga was removed from the endangered list due to significant conservation efforts, including collaboration with local communities.