Experience the wonders of the Democratic Republic of Congo with our 5-day safari tour that includes gorilla trekking and climbing the world’s largest lava lake, Nyiragongo Volcano. This adventure allows you to explore the eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park and hike Nyiragongo in Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park. The tour also includes a speedboat transfer from Bukavu to Goma, the nearest town to Virunga National Park.
Itinerary Highlights:
Day 1: Transfer to Bukavu (Kahuzi Biega National Park)
Day 2: Gorilla Habituation in Kahuzi Biega
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking & Transfer to Goma
Day 4: Climbing Nyiragongo Volcano
Day 5: Descending Nyiragongo & Transfer to Kigali
Detailed 5-Day Tour Description:
The tour begins in Kigali, Rwanda, and ends in Rwanda, featuring exciting opportunities for Eastern Lowland Gorilla trekking and hiking Nyiragongo Volcano in Virunga National Park.
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Bukavu
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, our driver-guide will pick you up. We will drive southwards to the Cyangugu border, stopping for lunch at the Butale Ibis Hotel. After crossing the border, we continue to Bukavu. If time permits, we may visit some genocide memorials along the Nyungwe road. Dinner and overnight stay will be at Orchid Safari Lodge, Begonaise Hotel, or Exodus Hotel.
For those interested, accommodations are now available within Kahuzi Biega National Park due to a new lodge that allows guests to enjoy breathtaking views of the park.
Day 2: Gorilla Habituation in Kahuzi Biega
After breakfast, we will drive to the park headquarters for approximately one hour to trek the gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park. Before the trek, guests will enjoy cultural dance performances and hot tea.
The gorilla habituation experience is unique as it provides insight into the differences between Eastern lowland and mountain gorillas. The lowland gorillas typically reside in larger family groups than their mountain counterparts. This experience is truly unforgettable. After the trek, we will return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3: Second Gorilla Trekking & Transfer to Goma
You will embark on a second gorilla trek in Kahuzi Biega National Park in the morning. Afterward, we will return to Bukavu and take a speedboat to Goma. The boat ride takes approximately three hours. Dinner and overnight stay will be at Lac Vic Hotel in Goma.
Day 4: Hike Nyiragongo Volcano
Your hike to Nyiragongo Volcano, known for its large lava lake, will begin from Kibati Station. After an early breakfast, we will set off to Kibati, the starting point for the hike. The ascent usually takes 6 to 7 hours, depending on the team’s pace. You will spend the night in wooden tents or cabins at the summit, enjoying dinner with breathtaking views.
Day 5: Descend to Goma and Return to Kigali
You will descend from Nyiragongo and reach Kibati by mid-day. After a transfer to Goma for lunch, we’ll drive to Gisenyi, followed by a return trip to Kigali, which will take about four hours.
Included in the Safari:
Eastern Lowland Gorilla Permits
Nyiragongo Hike Permit
Accommodation
Drinking Water & En Route Lunch
Ground Transportation
Exclusions:
Flights to Rwanda
Congo Tourist Visa
Rwanda Visa (apply for a Multiple Entry Visa)
Personal expenses not listed in the itinerary