Lola ya Bonobo is the only place in the world where you can see bonobos roaming freely in a natural setting and observe them up close. It is not a zoo. It is a rehabilitation sanctuary in secondary forest, founded in 1994 by Claudine André, where wild bonobos — rescued from poaching and the bushmeat trade — live across 30 hectares of valley in Kimwenza.
What you'll find
Around sixty bonobos inhabit the site, living in social groups across the forest. Guided visits last about an hour along wooden walkways and observation platforms. The bonobos are not caged — they move freely and you follow at a distance. A nursery houses babies still too young to join the adult groups. There is also a small educational area on conservation, and an eco-lodge for overnight stays with meals included.
When to go
The sanctuary is open Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Mondays. Visit slots are at 10h, 11h30, 13h and 14h30 — arrive 15 minutes before your slot. Dry season (May to October) is ideal: the trails stay passable and the heat is more manageable.
Budget for a day
Return transport with Kino Congo: $125 for a car up to 6 people, around $21 per person in a group of 6. Entry: $5 per person for DRC residents, $10 for non-residents. Estimated total per person (group of 6): $26 to $31.
Pair it with
Mbudi Nature in Lutendele is 25 km away — Congo River rapids, restaurant and barbecue. Symphonies Naturelles in Ngaliema is about twenty minutes away — primary forest, caves and ponds. These two sites and Lola ya Bonobo make a complete nature day without leaving the right bank of the river.
