Lola ya Bonobo: A Bonobo Paradise on the Outskirts of Kinshasa
Located in Kimwenza, in the lush Lukaya Valley south of Kinshasa, Lola ya Bonobo is the world’s first sanctuary entirely dedicated to the protection of bonobos, the iconic great apes found only in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its name means “the bonobos’ paradise” in Lingala.
Founded in 1994 by primatologist and conservationist Claudine André, the sanctuary was created out of a desire to save baby bonobos who had fallen victim to poaching and wildlife trafficking. In most cases, these young primates are orphaned after their parents are killed for bushmeat. Taken in by the Association Les Amis des Bonobos du Congo (ABC), they are cared for, rehabilitated, and raised by a team of caretakers and “surrogate mothers” who provide them with the care and affection necessary for their development.
Today, Lola ya Bonobo is home to several dozen bonobos living in vast forest enclosures that closely replicate their natural habitat. The sanctuary serves as a rescue center, an orphanage, a rehabilitation center, and a venue for environmental education. Visitors can observe the bonobos in an exceptional natural setting while learning about the challenges related to their conservation.
The tour offers a deeper understanding of the fascinating behavior of this species, which, along with the chimpanzee, is considered the closest relative of humans. Renowned for their intelligence, their sense of cooperation, and their highly developed social bonds, bonobos are a unique treasure of the Congolese natural heritage.
Lola ya Bonobo also plays a vital role in the reintroduction of rescued animals. Once they have reached adulthood and are able to live independently, some bonobos are transferred to Ekolo ya Bonobo (“the Land of the Bonobos”), a vast 480-km² forest reserve located in the heart of the Congolese equatorial forest. Two groups of bonobos have already been successfully reintroduced there, thereby contributing to the long-term conservation of the species in its natural habitat.
Just a few kilometers from Kinshasa, Lola ya Bonobo offers a unique experience that combines exploration, education, and encounters with one of Central Africa’s most iconic animals. A must-see for all lovers of nature, wildlife, and conservation.
Day 1: Kinshasa – Lola ya Bonobo – Kinshasa
8:00 a.m. – Departure from downtown Kinshasa.
After picking up the participants, we’ll depart by car for Kimwenza, in the municipality of Mont-Ngafula. The journey takes us through several neighborhoods of the Congolese capital, offering a glimpse into daily life in one of Africa’s largest cities.
Due to heavy traffic in Kinshasa, especially in the morning, travel time may vary considerably depending on traffic conditions.
12:00 p.m. – Arrival at Lola ya Bonobo.
Check-in and lunch near the shrine.
Located in the magnificent Lukaya Valley, Lola ya Bonobo is the world’s first sanctuary entirely dedicated to the protection of bonobos, a species endemic to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
1:30 p.m. – Guided tour of the sanctuary.
Accompanied by the center’s guides, visitors learn about the extraordinary story of Lola ya Bonobo and the work carried out by the Association Les Amis des Bonobos du Congo to save young bonobos that have fallen victim to poaching and wildlife trafficking.
The tour allows visitors to observe the bonobos in their forest habitats, learn more about their behavior and remarkable intelligence, and discover the efforts being made to rehabilitate them and reintroduce them into the wild.
3:30 p.m. – Free time and exploring the Lukaya Valley.
Visitors enjoy the sanctuary's lush setting and the natural landscapes surrounding Kimwenza.
4:00 p.m. – Departure for Kinshasa.
Back to downtown through the southern neighborhoods of the capital.
6:00 p.m. – Arrival in Kinshasa.
End of the tour.
Highlights of the trip
- Discovery of the world's first bonobo sanctuary.
- Observation of bonobos in a semi-natural environment.
- Meeting with the conservation teams.
- Learn about the work of the Association Les Amis des Bonobos du Congo.
- Raising Awareness About Great Ape Conservation.
- An Immersion in the Lukaya Valley.
- A day trip available from Kinshasa.
- An ideal experience for families, nature enthusiasts, and lovers of African wildlife.
Map of the circuit
Just a few kilometers from downtown Kinshasa, this excursion takes you to explore Lola ya Bonobo, the world’s first sanctuary entirely dedicated to the protection of bonobos. Nestled in the lush Lukaya Valley, this sanctuary is home to young orphaned bonobos who have fallen victim to poaching and wildlife trafficking.
From observing bonobos in their natural habitat to learning about the remarkable conservation work carried out by the Association Les Amis des Bonobos du Congo and immersing yourself in the unspoiled landscapes of Kimwenza, this tour offers a unique encounter with one of humankind’s closest relatives. It is an experience that is at once moving, educational, and a must for all lovers of nature and African wildlife.
Photos
PRICES & RESERVATIONS
Price of the full tour — Kinshasa → Lola ya Bonobo → Kinshasa
The Lola ya Bonobo tour is offered as a guided excursion departing from Kinshasa. This unique experience takes you to Kimwenza, in the magnificent Lukaya Valley, to explore the world’s first sanctuary entirely dedicated to the protection of bonobos.
Founded by the Association Les Amis des Bonobos du Congo, Lola ya Bonobo provides a home for young orphaned bonobos that have fallen victim to poaching and wildlife trafficking. A visit offers the opportunity to learn about the remarkable work being done to rescue them, rehabilitate them, and, whenever possible, reintroduce them to their natural habitat.
From observing bonobos to learning about conservation programs and immersing yourself in a pristine natural environment just outside Kinshasa, this excursion offers a unique opportunity to encounter one of the most iconic animals of the Congo Basin.
What's included in your tour:
Transfers from Kinshasa
French-speaking driver-guide
Entrance to the Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary
Guided Tour of the Shrine
Overview of Conservation Programs
Observing bonobos in their semi-natural environment
Lunch on-site or nearby
Drinking water during the excursion
Logistics support throughout the day
Important Information
This tour is available year-round.
Travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions in Kinshasa.
Pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for a tropical climate.
Sunscreen and mosquito repellent are recommended.
Visitors must follow the sanctuary's guidelines to ensure the animals' well-being.
Certain areas of the center may be subject to access restrictions for health or conservation reasons.
A tailor-made adventure?
Would you like to combine a visit to Lola ya Bonobo with exploring Kinshasa, a trip to the Zongo Falls, a cultural immersion, or a more comprehensive trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Contact us. The team at Yonzika Travel will work with you to create a customized experience tailored to your preferences, your pace, and your budget.
THE CIRCUIT
Tour Type
A full-day discovery tour featuring a guided visit to the Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary and an immersive experience in the world of bonobo conservation.
This experience combines wildlife exploration, raising awareness about the protection of great apes, and immersion in the natural landscapes of the Lukaya Valley, just outside Kinshasa.
Circuit Level
This excursion is suitable for anyone in good physical condition.
Visitors mainly get around on foot along trails within the sanctuary. The trails are easy and require no special experience.
This excursion is ideal for families, school groups, nature lovers, photographers, and all travelers who want to discover one of the most iconic species in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Group: Minimum of 4 travelers • Maximum of 12 travelers
Travel with each other!
Is your group already formed? Whether you’re a family, a club, a company, a school, or a group of friends, you can book a private tour.
The advantage of a private tour: you’ll enjoy a more flexible itinerary, special interactions with the sanctuary staff, and an experience tailored to your interests.
Contact us to learn more about our private event options.
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation and Access
The tour begins in Kinshasa, which is accessible via regular international flights.
The Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary is located in Kimwenza, in the Mont-Ngafula commune, south of the capital, in the heart of the Lukaya Valley.
Transfers are provided by private vehicle from downtown Kinshasa.
Travel time varies depending on traffic conditions, which are often heavy in the Kinshasa metropolitan area, especially in the morning.
Passport & Visa
International travelers must have a valid passport and the documents required for their stay in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
We recommend that you check the entry requirements applicable to your nationality before you leave.
HEALTH INFORMATION
Vaccination & Malaria
Malaria is present in the Kinshasa region.
It is recommended that you use mosquito repellent.
Yellow fever vaccination is required for international travelers entering the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
We encourage you to consult your doctor or a travel medicine center before your departure.
ON-SITE
Bathroom & Hygiene
The sanctuary has restroom facilities suitable for visitors.
However, we recommend that you bring water, wet wipes, and any hygiene products you may need for your comfort.
Meals
Breakfast
Taken before leaving Kinshasa.
Lunch
Lunch is served on-site or at a restaurant near the shrine, depending on the package you choose.
Snack
Cold drinks and seasonal fruit may be served during the tour.
Water
Drinking water is provided throughout the tour.
As part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we encourage the use of reusable water bottles.
Exploring the Shrine
A visit to Lola ya Bonobo offers a glimpse into the exceptional work carried out by the Association Les Amis des Bonobos du Congo to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect orphaned bonobos who have fallen victim to poaching.
Visitors observe the bonobos in vast, specially designed forest enclosures and learn about their behavior, social structure, and remarkable intelligence.
The tour also provides insight into the conservation challenges facing this species, which is endemic to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as the reintroduction programs being carried out at the Ekolo ya Bonobo Reserve.
An Unforgettable Encounter with the Bonobos
Combining discovery, education, and wonder, this excursion is one of the most enriching experiences you can have during a stay in Kinshasa.
A unique opportunity to get up close to one of humankind’s closest relatives while supporting an internationally recognized conservation program.
Book your stay today
Discounted rates based on the number of passengers