13 Days Democratic Republic of Congo Safari | Gorillas, Nyiragongo & Congo Rainforest Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda – Transfer to Goma, Congo

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, you will meet your professional safari guide for a briefing before beginning your scenic transfer toward the Rwanda–Congo border.

Cross into Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo and continue to your hotel overlooking the beautiful surroundings of Lake Kivu.

Relax and prepare for the incredible adventure ahead.

Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation: Luxury / Mid-range Hotel in Goma
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to Virunga National Park – Nature & Conservation Experience

After breakfast, transfer to Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park and one of the continent’s richest biodiversity hotspots.

The park is famous for mountain gorillas, active volcanoes, savannah wildlife, and remarkable conservation projects protecting endangered species and ecosystems.

Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge while enjoying stunning views of the Virunga Mountains.

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

Day 3: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Wake up early for breakfast before heading to the ranger station for a gorilla trekking briefing.

Accompanied by experienced trackers and armed park rangers, trek through dense rainforest in search of endangered mountain gorillas. The trek may take several hours depending on the location of the gorilla family.

Once found, enjoy one unforgettable hour observing these magnificent primates as they interact, feed, and care for their young in the wild.

Return to the lodge for relaxation and overnight stay.

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

Day 4: Wildlife Safari & Boat Cruise in Virunga National Park

Today explore the diverse ecosystems of Virunga National Park through game drives and a boat safari.

Search for elephants, buffaloes, hippos, antelopes, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species while exploring savannah plains, forests, and wetlands.

Enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Ishasha River where large concentrations of hippos and birdlife can often be seen.

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

Day 5: Nyiragongo Volcano Hiking Adventure

After breakfast, begin your thrilling hike to Mount Nyiragongo.

The hike takes approximately 5–7 hours through tropical forest, lava landscapes, and volcanic terrain. Along the way, enjoy incredible panoramic views of the Virunga region.

At the summit, witness the spectacular glowing lava lake inside the crater — one of the world’s most dramatic natural phenomena.

Dinner and overnight at summit cabins.

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

Day 6: Descend Nyiragongo – Return to Goma

Wake early for sunrise views over the volcano before descending back to the base.

Transfer to Goma for relaxation and optional visits around Lake Kivu.

Spend the evening recovering from your volcano adventure.

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

Day 7: Transfer to Bukavu via Lake Kivu

After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey south toward Bukavu, located near Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

The journey offers spectacular views of Lake Kivu, traditional fishing villages, lush hills, and Congo’s stunning landscapes.

Arrive in Bukavu for relaxation at your lodge.

Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation: Lodge in Bukavu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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

Today experience one of Congo’s most unique wildlife encounters — trekking the endangered eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

Unlike mountain gorillas, eastern lowland gorillas are larger and inhabit lower-altitude rainforests. Trek through dense jungle accompanied by expert guides and trackers.

Spend one unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat while learning about conservation efforts in the Congo Basin rainforest.

Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation: Lodge in Bukavu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Chimpanzee Tracking & Community Experience

After breakfast, enjoy a chimpanzee tracking experience in the forests surrounding Kahuzi-Biega.

Watch chimpanzees swinging through the trees, communicating, and feeding in the rainforest canopy. Later, visit nearby local communities to learn about Congolese culture, traditions, music, and daily life.

Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation: Lodge in Bukavu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Congo Rainforest Exploration & Nature Walks

Today explore the incredible biodiversity of the Congo rainforest through guided forest walks and birdwatching excursions.

Encounter unique plant species, butterflies, primates, and colorful tropical birds while learning about the ecological importance of the Congo Basin — the world’s second-largest rainforest after the Amazon.

This day offers incredible photography and immersive nature experiences.

Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation: Lodge in Bukavu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11: Return Journey to Goma

After breakfast, begin your scenic transfer back toward Goma while enjoying more views of Congo’s mountains, forests, and lakeside landscapes.

Arrive in Goma in the evening for relaxation and overnight stay.

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

Day 12: Relaxation & Lake Kivu Experience

Enjoy a relaxed day around Lake Kivu with optional activities including:

• Boat excursions
• Coffee experiences
• Local market visits
• Cultural interactions
• Lakeside relaxation

This day allows you to unwind before departure.

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

Day 13: Transfer to Kigali – Departure

After breakfast, cross back into Rwanda and transfer to Kigali International Airport for your outbound flight.

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy optional shopping or a brief Kigali city visit before departure.

This marks the end of your unforgettable Democratic Republic of Congo Safari Adventure.

Meals
Breakfast & Lunch

The best time for gorilla trekking and adventure safaris in the Democratic Republic of Congo is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. These months provide better hiking conditions, clearer views, and comfortable safari experiences.