9 Days Virunga, Nyiragongo and Kahuzi-Biega Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, a Gorilla Quest Africa representative will warmly welcome you and provide a detailed briefing about your upcoming adventure. You will then be transferred to your elegant hotel in Kigali to relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a short city tour to explore the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local art galleries, and vibrant markets. In the evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel as you prepare for the start of your Congo safari experience.

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 breakfast, embark on a guided city tour of Kigali before driving to Gisenyi, a scenic town on the northern shore of Lake Kivu. The journey offers stunning views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and terraced landscapes. Upon reaching the border, complete immigration formalities and cross into Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Once in Goma, check into your luxury lakeside lodge and relax as you enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Lake Kivu.

Accommodation Options: Lac Kivu Lodge, Ihusi Hotel, Kivu Safari Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Transfer to Virunga National Park

After a leisurely breakfast, drive through lush countryside toward Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park’s dense forests, volcanic terrain, and rich biodiversity make it a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy the serene surroundings. The afternoon is free for you to relax or take a nature walk through the nearby trails. Dinner is served at your lodge with stunning views of the Virunga mountains in the distance.

Accommodation Options: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Today marks one of the most memorable experiences of your safari. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your mountain gorilla trekking adventure. Led by expert rangers, you’ll trek through dense rainforests in search of a gorilla family. Observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a deeply moving experience that connects you to nature in a profound way. After spending an hour with the gorillas, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation.

Accommodation Options: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Visit Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage and Relaxation

After breakfast, visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage Center, located near the Rumangabo headquarters. This is the world’s only facility that cares for orphaned mountain gorillas rescued from poaching or habitat loss. Tourists can learn about the dedicated conservation efforts that help preserve the future of this endangered species. Later, take a short guided walk around the forest trails or simply unwind at your lodge, surrounded by Virunga’s natural beauty.

Accommodation Options: Mikeno Lodge, Tchegera Island Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Mount Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

After an early breakfast, transfer to the Kibati Ranger Post, where you’ll receive a briefing before starting your ascent of Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The hike takes approximately 4 to 6 hours through lush forest and rocky terrain, with incredible views of the surrounding landscape. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing sight of the world’s largest lava lake, glowing against the night sky. Spend the night in summit cabins, enjoying a hot meal and the unforgettable atmosphere of the volcano.

Accommodation Options: Nyiragongo Summit Cabins
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Descend Mount Nyiragongo – Transfer to Bukavu

After breakfast at the summit, begin your descent back to the base of the volcano, where you’ll meet your guide for the drive to Bukavu. The journey follows the scenic shores of Lake Kivu, offering picturesque views of fishing villages, lush hills, and vibrant local communities. Upon arrival in Bukavu, check into your luxury lodge and relax after the day’s long but rewarding journey.

Accommodation Options: L’Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Hotel Horizon Bukavu
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park

After breakfast, proceed to the Kahuzi-Biega National Park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your lowland gorilla trekking experience. These eastern lowland gorillas are the largest of all gorilla subspecies and are known for their gentle nature and strong family bonds. The trek can take several hours depending on the location of the gorilla family, but the reward is an intimate hour spent observing these incredible primates in their natural habitat. Return to your lodge in the evening for relaxation and dinner by the lakeside.

Accommodation Options: L’Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Hotel Horizon Bukavu
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Return to Kigali – Departure

After breakfast, depart Bukavu for the return drive to Kigali via the scenic Cyangugu border. Enjoy the views of the Rwandan countryside as you journey back through rolling hills and green valleys. Upon arrival in Kigali, depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for lunch or a short visit to a local craft market for souvenirs before being transferred to the airport for your departure. Your 9 Days Virunga, Nyiragongo and Kahuzi-Biega Safari with Gorilla Quest Africa ends with cherished memories of Congo’s wild wonders and the warmth of African hospitality.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 9 Days Virunga, Nyiragongo and Kahuzi-Biega Safari.