Spend a half-day walking the shaded paths of Lola Ya Bonobo, the world’s only sanctuary for orphaned bonobos. This guided visit pairs close, regulated viewing of social bonobo groups with hands-on conservation education.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Walk through a clearing where calls and rustling leaves feel like conversation—here the bonobos move with curious confidence, approaching their enclosure boundaries and studying visitors with humanlike intent.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Light walking on mostly flat dirt paths; suitable for a wide range of fitness levels
Wildlife
History
Lola Ya Bonobo was founded to care for orphaned bonobos rescued from bushmeat trade and habitat loss; it combines sanctuary care with public education and research.
Conservation
The sanctuary focuses on rehabilitation and release when possible, and supports community outreach to reduce hunting pressure and promote habitat protection.
Reserve your spot on the Exclusive Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Follow the guide’s distance rules
Bonobos are habituated but still wild—stay behind barriers and obey your guide to avoid stressing the animals.
Pack insect repellent and water
Kinshasa’s humidity and mosquitoes are real—bring a reusable water bottle and DEET or Picaridin repellent.
Bring a camera with a zoom
Use a telephoto lens rather than getting close; flash can startle apes and is often discouraged.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Trails are uneven and can be muddy after rain—sturdy shoes improve comfort and footing.
Sturdy walking shoes
Protects feet on uneven, sometimes muddy sanctuary trails.
Insect repellent
Reduces mosquito bites in Kinshasa’s humid environment.
Telephoto camera or zoom lens
Allows respectful wildlife photography without approaching enclosures.
Reusable water bottle and sun hat
Keeps you hydrated and shaded during sunny stretches of the visit.