The Park is founded as Parc Albert, the first national park to be established on the African continent. [46] This variation is determined by a number of factors such as the soil type, soil depth, animals and invertebrates in the area, and minerals within the soil. Regional conflict spills over and an estimated 5.6 million Congolese die from the fighting. Omissions? Rwanda Important Facts About the Virunga Mountains in East Africa The Virunga Mountains are 8 famously known mountain ranges that lie on the northern border of Rwanda and Congo and south western part of Uganda. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda Parc National Des Volcans Guide Adult African fish eagles have mostly brown bodies with a white head and yellow face and large, powerful, black wings. These, in turn, keep the lions of the park suitably satiated. Fortunately, stalwart sightseers can rest assured that the volcanos moods are carefully monitored lest it decides to let loose its fury of molten lava. The gorilla massacres catalyzed a groundswell of efforts to protect Virunga. The 8 Virunga Volcano Mountains Virunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Articles from Britannica Encyclopedias for elementary and high school students. These mountains are part of the Great Rift Valley. Located on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Rwenzoris, or Mountains of the Moon, are the third highest mountain chain in Africa. In the wake of serious security issues, including the murder of park rangers and the kidnapping of tourists, park management announced in June 2018 that the park would be closed to tourists until at least the end of the year. Virunga Mountains, Virunga also spelled Birunga, also called Mufumbiro Mountains, volcanic range north of Lake Kivu in east-central Africa, extending about 50 miles (80 km) along the borders of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. Several armed rebel groups operate in the park, including Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda and National Congress for the Defence of the People (FDLR). Coordinates: .mw-parser-output .geo-default,.mw-parser-output .geo-dms,.mw-parser-output .geo-dec{display:inline}.mw-parser-output .geo-nondefault,.mw-parser-output .geo-multi-punct{display:none}.mw-parser-output .longitude,.mw-parser-output .latitude{white-space:nowrap}012545S 293254E / 1.42917S 29.54833E / -1.42917; 29.54833. Together with Queen Elizabeth National Park, Virunga is considered by the IUCN to be a Lion Conservation Unit. The plains of Virunga National Park are dominated by wetlands and grasslands with papyrus sedge (Cyperus papyrus), jointed flatsedge (C. articulatus), common reed (Phragmites mauritanica), sacaton grasses (Sporobolus consimilis), ambatch (Aeschynomene elaphroxylon), conkerberry (Carissa spinarum), paperbark thorn (Vachellia sieberiana) and kowai fruit (Coccinia grandis). 2003). African fish eagles are birds of prey that live in the waterways of sub-Saharan Africa. There is a place in the heart of Africa where glacier-tipped mountains tumble down into steamy rain forests, where fiery lava lakes bubble, and savannas and grasslands stretch as far as the eye can see. It is also a vital elephant habitat, as evidenced by the unexpected migration of nearly 600 elephants from neighbouring Queen Elizabeth at the end of 2020. We rely on Global Rescue to assist our clients. Nyiragongos summit rim is largely devoid of vegetation and is sometimes dusted with snow. It spans across the three countries; via the North West Rwanda covering Volcanoes National Park, south western Uganda encompassing Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and eastern Congo forming part of Virunga National Park. Notable species include the prehistoric-looking shoebills, dashing Rwenzori turacos, mind-blowingly cryptic African green broadbills, and bizarre red-collared mountain babblers whose closest relative forages the slopes of Mt Jupe in Cameroon. Virunga National Park was founded in 1925 as Albert National Park. The Virunga Mountains (Virunga massif/Virunga ranges) is a block of Chain Mountains found in East - central Africa. Chattering troops of flamboyant eastern black-and-white colobus monkeys frequent the lodges while the booming calls of De Brazzas monkeys echo through the valleys. A conflict between rebel and army forces results in the untimely death of the silverback of the Rugendo family. This may also be done to protect the highly susceptible apes from human diseases like Covid-19. Hiking the Sabyinyo volcano takes approximately 7 to 9 hours. However, wet seasons are a good option for those with a pair of solid, waterproof boots looking to take advantage of the low-season discounts. The lava field of these two volcanoes has remained active, with notable eruptions occurring in 1912, 1938, 1948, the 1970s, and 2002. To comment on this story: Download our app here - it's a troll-free safe place . As is inevitable, this tableau of human suffering has spilt over into the conservation of the countrys natural resources, and Virunga has found itself in the middle of countless conflicts. 689 men and women standing fearlessly to protect Virunga, Critical training and support for widows and children of fallen Virunga Rangers, The world's only facility caring for mountain gorilla orphans. It is . Communities around Lake Edward are fearful of the impact of potential oil activity on their livelihoods. A land of unparalleled biodiversity and exceptional beauty, bursting with life of every form. Virunga National Park is located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, within the Albertine Rift Valley. The northern sector is characterised by the dramatic Rwenzori Mountains, with sharp peaks and plunging valleys that descend to the Semuliki River valley. The great volcanoes of this range, clothed in cloud forests, include the dormant Mikeno, Karisimbi, Visoke, and Sabinio (Sabinyo), as well as the active Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira. Up to 40,000 people entered the park daily in search of firewood and food, and deforested huge areas. The park is a crucial habitat for giant and tree pangolin, crested porcupine and even Lord Derbys scaly-tailed squirrel (a rodent with a very similar design to flying squirrels). [35], Increasing militarisation of nature conservation has been accused of fuelling armed mobilisation of militias. The southern sector stretches to the shores of Lake Kivu and encompasses Nyamulagira, Nyiragongo and Mikeno volcanoes with montane forests on their slopes. Of these, nine gorilla families have been carefully habituated over the last thirty years. Poachers murder four mountain gorillas, making this the first time in 10 years that a mountain gorilla had been poached within Park borders. It is Virunga National Park in DRC, and it is remarkable. It includes the Rwindi plains and the Ishasha River valley, and is contiguous with Ugandas Queen Elizabeth National Park to the east. Discounts at Africas best lodges and on our hand-made packages subscribers only, STORIES & DISCUSSIONS Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions. Want to go on a safari to Virunga? Virunga is an English derived word from its origin word "ibirunga" (comes . The 2008 partnership between the Congolese National Parks Authority (ICCN) and the Virunga Foundation marked a turning point in the parks history. Focussing on three key areas: hydropower, sustainable agriculture and fisheries, and tourism, Virunga National Park is working to economically transform the region creating jobs and reducing poverty rates. Virunga is a biodiversity spectacle but is also a testament to the courage of those that have fought and often given their lives in its defence. [43], Virunga National Park is located in the Congo Nile watershed area. Virunga National Park is placed on the list of endangered World Heritage sites. However, extraordinary doesnt even begin to cover it. The mountain range is a branch of the Albertine Rift Mountains, which border the western branch of the East African Rift. Virunga Mountains | National Park | Gorillas | Rwanda | Uganda Virunga Mountains: A gem of biodiversity in the heart of Africa Nyiragongo has erupted over thirty times since the end of the 19th century. (For more on the conservation and social developments by the Virunga Alliance. For decades, the people of the DRC have struggled through war and instability that has killed millions of people. (US) +1 (786) 655-4040, *Call costs: Local rates apply from South Africa, UK and US otherwise international rates apply, newsletter@africageographic.com Only 629 hippos remain in the Park, a 98% decrease from the 30,000 of the 1960s and 1970s. The increased human population contributed to deforestation and poaching, and some natural animal migration patterns have been seriously disrupted. The Parks governance structure is strengthened, and newly appointed staff negotiate access to the gorilla sector despite it being controlled by rebels. [26] Each offers a different view of the lush vegetation and exquisite vistas. [37] In May 2018, a ranger was killed when defending two tourists who were kidnapped. In 1969, following the countrys independence from Belgium in 1960, the Park was renamed Virunga National Park. At a height of 16,761 feet (5,109 meters), the Rwenzori mountains feature the largest glaciers left on the African continent making this area, populated by glaciers-fed rivers, waterfalls and lakes, one of Africas most beautiful alpine landscapes. Chimpanzees are an endangered species and one of the four species of great apes. app@africageographic.com Ultra-luxury is not the order of the day in Virunga, but there are high-end accommodation options, and all the camps are comfortable. It reopened in February 2019. national park, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Virunga is part of the Albertine Rift (the western branch of the East African Rift) and stretches from the snow-covered peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains in the north to the Virunga Massif in the south. Its northern sector encompasses part of the Semliki River basin, as well as savanna and montane forest of the Albertine Rift. [26] Park personnel are given paramilitary training and high-quality weaponry, and operate together with the military and state security services. In addition to buffalo, the plains support several ungulates, including topi, Ugandan kob, waterbuck, warthog, and red river and giant forest hog. The most visited section is the southern sector, dominated by dense montane forests home to a vital population of Africas remaining mountain gorillas. Virunga Mountains in Congo were formed as a result of volcanic activity from the past. Geography of Rwanda. The crowned crane stands at over 3 feet (1 meter) tall, with predominantly grey plumage, white and black wings, a bright red gular pouch, and a crown of golden feathers. He even attended the Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles. They consume mainly fish but have been known to consume carrion, birds, monkeys and even crocodile hatchlings when prey is scarce. Goma, the capital city of the province on the northern shores of Lake Kivu is 35 km (1-hour drive) away from Rumangabo, the park headquarters located in the southern sector of Kibumba. Of its eight major volcanic peaks, the highest is Karisimbi, at 14,787 feet (4,507 metres). The central sector is based around Lake Edward, the Ishasha river valley and the Rwindi plains. The central sector is centred around the banks of Lake Edward. All travel bookings booked via Trust my Travel are financially protected by them. [5] In the course of increasing tensions, the park's chief warden, Emmanuel de Mrode, was assailed in April 2014. Together with Queen Elizabeth National Park, Virunga is considered by the IUCN to be a Lion Conservation Unit. Naturally, the park authorities are aware of this, and they take the safety of their guests extremely seriously. Harnessed bushbuck (T. scriptus) and giant forest hog (Hylochoerus meinertzhageni) are present in the southern sector. The Parks visitor accommodation at Mikeno Lodge welcomes new guests seeking to visit Virunga. Conservation protects the mountains alpine vegetation, as well as wildlife that includes the golden monkey and the mountain gorilla. Virunga is the continents most biologically diverse protected area and a national park embarking on an ambitious development programme known as the Virunga Alliance. Virunga National Park is home to around a third of those gorillas, which reside in the dense forests on the lush slopes of the Virunga volcanoes. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. The Virunga Mountains is located in the East Africa with a chain of volcanoes that are within the borders of the countries Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and Rwanda.The mountain range is said to be a part of the Albertine Rift located in the Great Rift Valley. [33], In 2005, the European Commission (EC) recommended a public-private partnership between the country's government and the British non-governmental organisation African Conservation Fund. This partnership initiated a comprehensive reform program and planted the seed for what would become the Virunga Alliance an innovative development programme to address the root causes of poverty and conflict, with the aim of eradicating illegal and destructive resource extraction in the region. Established 1991, BEST SAFARI PRICES The number of bird species in Virunga exceeds the total number in the U.S. and is more than three times the number in the U.K. Virungas recorded number of reptile species makes it the richest of the protected areas in Africa. The connection between man and gorilla can be further explored at the Senkwekwe Centre, the only mountain gorilla orphanage in the world. Mass killings of nearly 400 hippos are orchestrated by local militia who are suspected of eating and selling the meat and removing teeth for ivory. The mountain gorillas have increased from fewer than 70 to over 300 in ten years and hippos from 300 to over 2,000, while elephant and lion sightings are now a fairly regular occurrence. When it was first established, Virunga National Park was limited to three volcanoes in the south, but was later expanded northward to include the Rwindi plains, Lake Edward and the Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon. The southern sector of Congos Virunga National Park includes those portions of the mountains that are within Congo; the southern flanks of the central and eastern mountains comprise Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda; and Gorilla National Park includes the Ugandan slopes of Mgahinga. Seven mountain gorillas from the Rugendo family are murdered. The ICCN (Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature). The lake lies over 3000 feet (916 meters) above sea level and covers a surface area of 224,083 hectares, making it the 15th largest lake in Africa. Two major African rivers, the Nile and the. Hippo numbers increase to over 2000 for the first time in 20 years. In 2007, the mass killing of the Rugendo family of gorillas catapulted the parks plight onto the world stage, and the global attention spurned increased funding and conservation measures. The park is also home to a diverse array of fauna and flora, including over 200 mammal species and a third of the worlds remaining mountain gorillas. Mikeno and Sabinio are the oldest of these, dating from the early part of the Pleistocene Epoch (the Pleistocene began about 2,600,000 years ago and lasted until about 11,700 years ago); their craters have disappeared, and erosion has imposed a jagged relief. In 2007, the mass killing of the Rugendo family of gorillas catapulted the parks plight onto the world stage, and the global attention spurned increased funding and conservation measures. [4] The name Virunga comes from the Kinyarwanda word ibirunga, which means volcanoes. Updates? Networking & debating APP subscribers only, TRUSTED CONSERVATION PROJECTS The main crater of Nyiragongo is about three-quarters of a mile (1.2 km) across and contains a liquid lava pool. The parks southern tip rests on the northern shore of Lake Kivu, a short distance from the town of Goma to the east. Virungas most prominent mammals include forest and savanna elephants, hippos, okapis, lions and mountain gorillas. Though the full history of the park (and the DRC) is beyond the scope of this celebration of Virunga, no coverage would be complete without mention of both the challenges and efforts involved in keeping it safe. Lake Edward is a vital resource for local fishermen. The M23 Rebellion erupts in and around the Park. [44] Campaigners trying to create public awareness are threatened and intimidated on social media. The northern sector receives a monthly mean precipitation of up to 220mm (8.7in), and the southern sector of up to 160mm (6.3in). The presence of these volcanoes has shaped the landscape of the park over the years . [47] chat to the Africa Geographic travel team, Photographer of the Year 2023 Weekly Selection: Week 11. Still, military and rebel forces remain in eastern Congo and continue fighting as well as poaching and cutting down trees. While the apes may be the stars, the supporting cast of around 19 smaller primate species is deserving of a special mention. Elevations, climates, and habitats vary notably in Virunga National Park. [27][28][29][30], By 2016, four hydropower dams were constructed that provide electricity to small businesses and benefit more than 200,000 rural people. UNESCO designated the park a World Heritage site in 1979, and it was placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger in 1994, because of the growth of permanent settlements within the park and the influx of a great number of refugees fleeing war in neighbouring Rwanda. [2], In 1996, the national park was listed as a Ramsar site of international importance.
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