Lola ya Bonobo- Bonobo Watching tours
Lola ya Bonobo is the world’s only organization to provide lifetime care to bonobos orphaned by the illegal trade in endangered wildlife. They are on the front line in the battle to protect bonobos in the only country they are found – The Democratic Republic of Congo.
Conservation of Bonobos in Congo .
One way of conservation is through confiscation. The fact that it is illegal to kill, sell or own Bonobos in the DRC, enforcement is done by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. The infant Bonobos discovered on the Black market are taken to a safe place since survival is not guaranteed in the wild without their mothers.
To make this work easy, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species works hand in hand with the Congolese Ministry of Environment. Therefore, the Government lends a helping hand.
In Congo, livestock is scarce and expensive therefore, Ape sanctuaries exist because of the bush meat trade. 80% of the meat consumed is wildlife.
If the orphans arrive at Lola in critical condition, ie when they are dehydrated, malnourished, have some parasites, skin diseases or some respiratory infections among other diseases, There are veterinary staff that treats them immediately.
Location
Ninety minutes west of Kinshasa, just beyond the city’s sprawl, this excellent project provides a home for orphaned bonobos. Long thought to be chimpanzees, bonobos are actually a separate species known for being much more peaceful than their cousins. They’re also endangered, with only around 50,000 surviving in the wild. Trails here lead around the large, forested enclosures, but the playful bonobos often hang out right at the front, especially in the morning.
The sanctuary is 8km off the Matadi road. If you’re patient, you can hitch those last 8km off the highway. A hire car with a driver from Kinshasa will cost US$150, but in the wet season you’ll need a 4WD (US$200) and car rental is available for those planning independent trips. Please note no fuel on the price quoted above.
Trips to Bonobo Trekking
Car Rental congo has tailored the sample trip of 3 Days Bonobo Watching experience along side other wildlife experiences like the 8 Days Okapi Watching tour to Okapi Wildife Reserve.
