Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Central Africa with Gorilla Quest Africa’s 11 Days Congo Adventure and Safari Experience. This exclusive safari is tailored for tourists seeking a blend of wild adventure, untamed beauty, and luxurious comfort. Explore the vibrant rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo, home to the legendary mountain and lowland gorillas, traverse scenic landscapes, and enjoy intimate encounters with rare wildlife. Each day promises a perfect mix of adventure and indulgence, complemented by handpicked luxury accommodations, professional guides, and seamless logistics for an experience beyond compare.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Your journey begins upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by a Gorilla Quest Africa representative. After a short briefing, you will be transferred to your luxury hotel in Kigali for relaxation. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a guided city tour to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local art galleries, and craft markets that offer insight into Rwanda’s rich history and culture. In the evening, enjoy a fine dining experience as you prepare for your adventure ahead.
Accommodation Options: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven, Radisson Blu Hotel Kigali
Meals: (Dinner)
Day 2: Kigali City Tour – Transfer to Goma, DR Congo
After a hearty breakfast, you will enjoy a morning city tour of Kigali before setting out for Goma via the Gisenyi border. The drive offers breathtaking views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, tea plantations, and Lake Kivu’s sparkling waters. Upon crossing into the Democratic Republic of Congo, you will notice a change in landscape and culture, with Goma offering a mix of vibrant urban life and natural charm. Check in to your luxurious lakeside lodge for relaxation as you enjoy sunset views over Lake Kivu.
Accommodation Options: Lac Kivu Lodge, Ihusi Hotel, Kivu Safari Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: Transfer to Virunga National Park
Today, your adventure takes you to Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After breakfast, drive through scenic volcanic landscapes dotted with local villages and lush vegetation. Upon arrival, check in at your luxury lodge and take the afternoon to relax or explore the nearby nature trails. The park’s biodiversity is remarkable, home to mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, and countless bird species. Dinner will be served under the stars as you prepare for the next day’s gorilla trek.
Accommodation Options: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
This is the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, you will be escorted to the park headquarters for a briefing before starting your mountain gorilla trekking experience. Led by expert rangers, you’ll trek through dense rainforests to find a gorilla family. Watching these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is one of the most emotional and awe-inspiring experiences in Africa. You’ll spend up to an hour observing their behavior before heading back to the lodge for relaxation.
Accommodation Options: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Explore the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage
Today offers a more relaxed yet rewarding experience. After breakfast, visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage Center, the only mountain gorilla orphanage in the world. You’ll learn about conservation efforts and meet caretakers who nurture orphaned gorillas. Later, enjoy a guided nature walk or visit the nearby community to interact with locals and experience Congolese culture. The evening is free for leisure with scenic views and a warm fireplace ambiance.
Accommodation Options: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Tchegera Island Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Nyiragongo Volcano Hike Preparation – Transfer to Kibati
After breakfast, transfer to Kibati Ranger Post where you’ll receive a briefing for your Mount Nyiragongo hike. This active volcano is famous for its glowing lava lake, one of the largest in the world. The afternoon will be spent preparing and relaxing in anticipation of the next day’s climb. Enjoy a hearty dinner and rest early, ready for one of Africa’s most thrilling adventures.
Accommodation Options: Mikeno Lodge, Kibumba Tented Camp, Ihusi Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Hike to the Summit of Mount Nyiragongo
Begin your ascent early in the morning, guided by experienced park rangers. The hike usually takes between 4 to 6 hours, traversing lava fields and forested slopes. Reaching the summit is a surreal experience as you witness the molten lava lake glowing against the night sky. Spend the night in summit cabins, enjoying a warm meal while admiring one of Earth’s most mesmerizing natural spectacles.
Accommodation Options: Nyiragongo Summit Cabins
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Descend Mount Nyiragongo – Return to Goma
After breakfast at the summit, you’ll descend the volcano and return to Kibati. Upon arrival, you will be transferred back to Goma for a well-deserved rest. Spend the afternoon at leisure by the lakeside, reflecting on your incredible mountain experience. For those who wish, you can take a short city tour or visit local markets before retiring to your lodge for a relaxing evening.
Accommodation Options: Lac Kivu Lodge, Ihusi Hotel, Kivu Safari Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9: Transfer to Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Bukavu)
Today, embark on a scenic journey along the shores of Lake Kivu as you travel to Kahuzi-Biega National Park, home to the rare eastern lowland gorillas. The drive offers stunning views of rolling hills, fishing villages, and lush greenery. Upon arrival, check into your luxury lodge and spend the evening enjoying the tranquility of nature as you prepare for another gorilla trekking adventure.
Accommodation Options: L’Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Hotel Horizon Bukavu
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10: Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before setting out to track the eastern lowland gorillas, the largest gorilla subspecies. The trek takes you through dense vegetation and bamboo forests as you search for these gentle giants. Once found, you’ll spend quality time observing their social behavior and interactions. This experience complements your earlier mountain gorilla trek, offering a complete gorilla adventure in the Congo.
Accommodation Options: L’Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Hotel Horizon Bukavu
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 11: Return to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive back to Kigali through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside. Depending on your flight schedule, you may enjoy lunch and a brief stop at a local craft center before being transferred to the airport for your departure. Your 11 Days Congo Adventure and Safari Experience with Gorilla Quest Africa concludes here, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Africa’s wild heart.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)
End of the 11 Days Congo Adventure and Safari Experience.
The 11 Days Congo Adventure and Safari Experience cost includes;
- Airport Transfers.
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary.
- Gorilla Permits.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Bottled Water in the car.
- Tour Guide Allowances.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
The tour cost excludes;
- Visa fees.
- International air fare.
- Tips to local guides.
- Personal shopping bills.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Items not listed as included in the cost.