Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Goma

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, meet your safari guide and begin your scenic transfer to Goma in Congo via the Gisenyi border.

Enjoy beautiful views of rolling hills, local villages, and Lake Kivu along the way. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and relax.

Accommodation and Meals
Hotel/Lodge in Goma
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to Virunga National Park

After breakfast, transfer to the famous Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park and one of the most biodiverse places on earth.

Enjoy a nature walk, birdwatching, and stunning volcanic scenery as you settle into your forest lodge.

Accommodation and Meals
Lodge near Virunga National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga

Today is the highlight of your Congo safari. After an early morning briefing, head into the rainforest for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience.

Spend one magical hour observing endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat while learning about conservation efforts in the park.

Return to the lodge for relaxation and storytelling around the campfire.

Accommodation and Meals
Lodge near Virunga National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage & Community Experience

Visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage, the only sanctuary in the world caring for orphaned mountain gorillas.

Later, enjoy a cultural experience with local communities, traditional dance performances, and artisan craft visits.

Accommodation and Meals
Lodge near Virunga National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Nyiragongo Volcano Trek

Begin your thrilling trek to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.

The hike takes you through lush forest and volcanic terrain with incredible panoramic views. Reach the summit crater and witness the spectacular lava lake glowing beneath the night sky.

Overnight at summit shelters.

Accommodation and Meals
Nyiragongo Summit Cabins
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Descend Nyiragongo & Return to Goma

After sunrise views over the volcano, descend back to the base and transfer to Goma for relaxation.

Spend the afternoon at leisure by Lake Kivu.

Accommodation and Meals
Hotel/Lodge in Goma
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Lake Kivu Boat Cruise & Relaxation

Enjoy a relaxing day exploring the shores of Lake Kivu.

Activities may include:

• Boat cruises
• Fishing experiences
• Lakeside walks
• Local coffee tours
• Cultural interactions

Accommodation and Meals
Lake Kivu Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Lowland Gorilla or Nature Adventure

Depending on accessibility and preference, enjoy an optional eastern lowland gorilla trek or guided forest nature excursion.

This day also offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Accommodation and Meals
Forest Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Explore Goma & Local Markets

Discover the lively city of Goma with visits to local markets, craft shops, and nearby scenic viewpoints.

Enjoy your final evening with a farewell dinner overlooking Lake Kivu.

Accommodation and Meals
Hotel/Lodge in Goma
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Transfer Back to Kigali & Departure

After breakfast, transfer back to Kigali for your international departure flight.

Depending on flight time, optional shopping or café stopovers can be arranged.

Meals: Breakfast

Best Time to Visit.  The best time for this safari is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February for easier trekking conditions and clearer volcano views.