Lomami National Park
In the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo lies Lomami National Park, a remote and pristine rainforest declared a national park in 2016. Stretching over 8,874 square kilometers, Lomami was created to protect rare and newly discovered species, making it a scientific and conservation frontier. With bonobos, okapis, forest elephants, and the elusive lesula monkey, Lomami offers a glimpse into an untouched wilderness few travelers have ever seen.
Location and Landscape
Lomami National Park is situated between the Lomami and Tshuapa Rivers, deep in the central Congo Basin. The park’s landscapes include dense tropical rainforest, riverine habitats, swamps, and savanna patches.
Its remote location makes it one of the least disturbed regions of the Congo. Reaching Lomami often requires days of river travel, which adds to its reputation as one of Africa’s last great wildernesses.
Wildlife of Lomami
Lomami is renowned for harboring rare and endemic species:
- Primates: Home to the lesula monkey (Cercopithecus lomamiensis), a species only discovered by science in 2007 and named after the park. Bonobos also roam the forest alongside red colobus and black mangabeys.
- Large Mammals: Okapis, bongo antelopes, forest buffalo, and sitatungas thrive here.
- Elephants: Forest elephants, though threatened by poaching, remain part of the ecosystem.
- Birds: More than 300 species, including Congo Basin endemics, fill the forest canopy.
The discovery of the lesula monkey put Lomami on the global map, highlighting the park as a critical conservation area for species unknown to science.
Conservation and Importance
Lomami was created after years of research and community collaboration led by Congolese and international conservationists. Its establishment was crucial in protecting bonobos and other endangered wildlife from threats such as
- Poaching for bushmeat and ivory
- Deforestation due to logging and farming expansion
- Illegal mining activities
Today, Lomami represents hope for the Congo Basin, showing how science, conservation, and community partnerships can create new protected areas in Africa’s largest rainforest.
Visiting Lomami National Park
Tourism is extremely limited in Lomami. Unlike Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega, it has no established safari infrastructure. However, adventurous travelers and researchers can visit through special arrangements with conservation organizations.
- Access: Mostly by boat along the Lomami River, followed by treks through the forest.
- Accommodation: Very basic, usually in tents or small community guesthouses.
- Activities: Wildlife tracking, birdwatching, cultural encounters with local communities, and conservation expeditions.
This is a park for pioneers and explorers, not mainstream safari-goers.
Best For, Tip & Idea
Best For: Researchers, eco-adventurers, and wildlife enthusiasts seeking to explore the unknown.
Tip: Coordinate with conservation projects like the TL2 Project (Tshuapa-Lomami-Lualaba) for safe access and guided expeditions.
Idea: Combine Lomami with a visit to Salonga National Park for a journey into the two wildest and least explored rainforests in Africa.
Conclusion
Lomami National Park is a living laboratory of discovery, where new species are still being found and ancient forests remain intact. As Congo’s newest national park, it represents both the fragility and resilience of the Congo Basin. For those who dare to venture into its depths, Lomami offers a rare chance to witness Africa’s wilderness in its purest form.
