Bonobo
We love bonobos at Pictus Safaris! They're such entertaining primates, with a complex social structure and a diverse array of behaviours. Sadly, their range is highly restricted, and are found only in the remote depths of the Congolese jungle. Expeditions to locate these animals are always incredible adventures, and we can't recommend a trip dedicated to these apes highly enough. Check out our top three destinations for bonobo sightings below.
1. Lomako-Yokolala Faunal Reserve, DR Congo
Other species seen here:
- Tshuapa Red Colobus
- Wolf's Monkey
- Red River Hog
- Weyns's Duiker
- Black-Bellied Pangolin
How to visit:
Location:
Join our small-group 'Wilderness Beyond Compare' tour to Lomako in July 2022 - see more information below.
2. Salonga National Park, DR Congo
One of the largest pieces of untouched wilderness in the Congo, Salonga is a true adventurer's destination. Home to up to 40% of the world's remaining bonobos, Salonga has been the home of bonobo researchers for decades. In very specific and remote locations, bonobo tracking produces highly reliable sightings, and there is always the chance of spotting several rare species endemic to the Congo.
Other species seen here:
- Forest Elephant
- African Golden Cat
- Giant Pangolin
- Water Chevrotain
- Golden-Bellied Mangabey
How to visit:
Location:
The security situation in Salonga does not currently allow a visit. Contact us at contact@pictus-safaris.com to be kept updated if this changes. In the meantime, see below for some more incredible destinations.
3. Lac Tumba, DR Congo
By far the most accessible bonobo habitat in the Congo, sightings can be had just moments from local villages in this fragmented ecosystem. The seasonal flooding of the forest has sheltered this ecosystem from the worst effects of poaching, but the reserve lacks the biodiversity of Salonga and Lomako. However, for convenience alone, this is hard to beat!
Other species seen here:
- Forest Elephant
- Forest Buffalo
- Leopard
- Chimpanzee
- Allen's Swamp Money
How to visit:
Location:
We can currently offer trips to Lac Tumba on a private basis only - contact us at contact@pictus-safaris.com to find out more. Be sure to check out our other destinations via the link below.
Based on your interest in spotting a bonobo, you may also be interested in our top destinations for several other ultra-rare mammals:
Contact us today to book any of our incredible safaris:
Email: contact@pictus-safaris.com
Phone: +44 (0) 2034888362
Mail: 117 Canfield Gardens, London, NW6 3DY, United Kingdom
Years of research in Lomako have habituated several families of bonobos to the presence of humans, and this makes for simply sensational photographic opportunities with these rare primates. The reserve itself is extremely remote, with access limited to a five-day canoe journey up the Congo River. This area is an excellent spot for many rare species and makes for an incredible destination!