5 Days DR Congo Gorilla Trekking Safari | Virunga National Park Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Goma (DR Congo)

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, you will be welcomed by your safari guide for a briefing and preparation for your journey into the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Begin a scenic drive to the Rwanda–Congo border at Gisenyi/Goma. After immigration clearance, cross into Democratic Republic of the Congo and proceed to your hotel in Goma, located near the shores of Lake Kivu.

Enjoy a relaxed evening and safari briefing.

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

Day 2: Transfer to Virunga National Park – Orientation

After breakfast, transfer to Virunga National Park headquarters for briefing and registration.

Virunga National Park is home to some of the last remaining mountain gorillas in the world and offers one of the most adventurous and authentic gorilla trekking experiences in Africa.

After briefing, you will be transferred to your lodge inside or near the park. Spend the afternoon relaxing while enjoying views of the Virunga volcano ranges and surrounding rainforest.

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 and proceed to the park headquarters for a detailed gorilla trekking briefing by experienced rangers.

Begin your trek into the dense rainforest of Virunga National Park in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.

The trek can take between 2–6 hours depending on the movement of the gorillas. Along the way, you may encounter monkeys, forest birds, and breathtaking jungle scenery.

Once the gorillas are found, spend one magical hour observing them in their natural habitat as they feed, play, groom, and interact.

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: Lake Kivu Relaxation & Goma Cultural Experience

After breakfast, return to Goma for a relaxed day along the beautiful shores of Lake Kivu.

Enjoy optional activities such as:

• Boat rides on Lake Kivu
• Beach relaxation
• Visit to local markets in Goma
• Cultural interactions with local communities
• Photography of volcanic landscapes

This is a perfect day to relax after your gorilla trekking adventure.

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

Day 5: Return to Kigali – Departure

After breakfast, cross back into Rwanda and drive to Kigali.

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a short city tour or shopping experience in Kigali before transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

Your unforgettable DR Congo gorilla trekking safari comes to an end.

Meals
Breakfast & Lunch

The best time to visit Democratic Republic of the Congo for mountain gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February when forest trails are more accessible and trekking conditions are favorable.