Travel Guide Parc National Des Kundelungu

Kundelungu National Park is linked to Upemba Park by an ecological corridor. Originally a private hunting ground, it was declared a national protected area in 1970. It comprises two zones, the western part of which (known as the annex zone) was added more recently. The park's surface area covers 250,000 hectares in the reserve part located on the plateau, plus around 550,000 hectares in the annex zone. The ecosystem is grassy savannah on immense steppes dotted with gallery forests, typical of Katanga. And the fauna it is said to still harbour includes antelopes, jackals, servals, porcupines, warthogs, a wide variety of birds (cranes, egrets, marabouts, pelicans...), snakes, monkeys, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles... There is also talk of a few lions, cheetahs (of which the park is said to be the last refuge in the DRC), leopards, zebras... But no-one knows, particularly in the case of the big cats, whether there are any left. In any case, it's extremely rare and complicated to see them, so don't count on it, and content yourself with the splendid scenery, which in itself is well worth the detour. Starting with the Lofoï Falls, the highest in Africa (384 m in a single gush), even more impressive in the rainy season. The site includes other majestic waterfalls, the two most emblematic of which, along with the Lofoï, are the Masansa ("shower") and Lutshipuka ("pool") waterfalls, where you can take a dip. Both can be reached in a single day.In practical terms, the dirt track has recently been groomed and is much more comfortable than before. However, a good 4x4 is still essential for driving on the park's tracks. The drop-off point for the reserve is the Katwé station, which has a gîte ($30 per night). For the same price, you can camp in the park with equipment and armed guards. In both cases, you need to book and pay for accommodation at ICCN Lubumbashi and buy a permit ($40) for expatriates plus $15 per vehicle. Accommodation in gites is clean but basic, and without electricity of course, so remember to take everything with you before leaving Lubumbashi: food and water supplies, including for the driver, sleeping bag (it can get cold at night), torches...The park can be visited all year round ✆ +243 841 545 556 - www.visit-rdcongo.com