Maiko National Park, National park in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Maiko National Park is a large protected area covered in dense tropical forest that extends across eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park comprises distinct zones, each featuring different landscape types and forest conditions.
The area was first created as a hunting reserve in 1949 and later became a national park through a presidential decree in 1970. This change marked a shift toward protecting the land rather than using it for hunting.
Indigenous groups near the park maintain their traditional ways of living and take part in conservation work happening in the region.
Visiting requires working with experienced local guides since reaching the park is difficult from populated areas. Travelers should prepare for remote conditions and allow extra time for getting there and back.
The park is home to an unusual combination of large forest animals including eastern lowland gorillas and okapis that rarely coexist in other places. This mix of species makes it particularly valuable for wildlife researchers and observers.
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