11 Days Virunga and Kahuzi Biega Gorilla Trekking

OVERVIEW

Discover the ultimate Congo wildlife adventure with Unique Africa Tours on this 11 Days Virunga and Kahuzi Biega Gorilla Trekking safari. This exclusive itinerary combines the rare opportunity to encounter both mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park and eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park. Alongside gorilla trekking, guests will experience the breathtaking landscapes of Eastern Congo, including volcanic mountains, lush rainforests, and the serene shores of Lake Kivu. This luxury safari also immerses travelers in Congolese culture with visits to local communities, guided nature walks, and birdwatching expeditions. With world-class lodges, personalized service, and fine dining throughout, this tour blends adventure, wildlife, and comfort for an unforgettable experience.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Goma

Your journey begins at Kigali International Airport, where you will be greeted by a professional guide from Unique Africa Tours. After a detailed briefing, enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills and tea plantations en route to the Grande Barrière border into Congo. Upon completion of border formalities, continue to your luxury accommodation in Goma. The rest of the evening is reserved for relaxation with panoramic views of Lake Kivu, spa treatments, or a fine dining experience to prepare for your gorilla adventures.

Accommodation in Goma: Serena Hotel Goma, Lac Kivu Lodge, Cap Kivu Hotel
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2: Cultural and Scenic Exploration in Goma

After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of Goma’s cultural and natural highlights. Explore local markets, art galleries, and craft centers to gain insight into Congolese traditions. The afternoon can include a boat cruise on Lake Kivu, allowing for serene lakeside views and relaxation. Return to your lodge in the evening for a gourmet dinner, where the combination of local and international cuisine sets the tone for your luxury safari experience.

Accommodation in Goma: Serena Hotel Goma, Lac Kivu Lodge, Cap Kivu Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Transfer to Virunga National Park

After an early breakfast, depart Goma for Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest protected rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, check in at your luxury lodge surrounded by lush forest scenery. The afternoon is free to relax, enjoy optional nature walks, or take in birdwatching opportunities. The evening concludes with sundowners followed by a chef-prepared dinner, giving you a chance to reflect on the natural beauty surrounding your lodge.

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

Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga

Today, embark on the highlight of your Virunga experience: mountain gorilla trekking. After an early breakfast, head to Bukima Ranger Post for a briefing before trekking into the forest with experienced rangers. Spend an awe-inspiring hour observing the gorilla family in their natural habitat, witnessing playful infants and the powerful presence of silverbacks. Return to your lodge for lunch and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Dinner in the evening is served with exquisite flavors paired with fine wines.

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

Day 5: Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

After breakfast, participate in a rare chimpanzee habituation experience. Trek with park rangers to spend time observing semi-habituated chimpanzees as they forage, play, and communicate in the forest. This intimate experience offers exceptional photographic opportunities and insights into primate behavior. Later, enjoy a bush picnic lunch before returning to your lodge. The evening is for relaxation with a gourmet dinner served amidst the tranquil sounds of the rainforest.

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

Day 6: Nature Walks and Conservation Education

Following breakfast, engage in guided nature walks and conservation talks within Virunga National Park. Learn about the park’s biodiversity, ongoing protection efforts, and local ecology while spotting wildlife and exotic bird species. After a scenic picnic lunch, return to your lodge for leisure. Take the afternoon to unwind, enjoy lodge amenities, or capture photos of the park’s stunning landscapes. Dinner in the evening is served with a combination of local and international dishes.

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

Day 7: Transfer to Kahuzi Biega National Park

After breakfast, transfer south to Kahuzi Biega National Park, home to the endangered eastern lowland gorillas. This journey provides scenic views of Congo’s rolling hills, lakes, and villages. Upon arrival, check in at your luxury lodge, settle in, and enjoy lunch while soaking in the park’s verdant surroundings. The afternoon offers leisure time or short guided walks near the lodge. Dinner is served in style, combining regional flavors and international cuisine.

Accommodation in Kahuzi Biega: Orchids Safari Lodge, Lodge Coco, Hotel Elizabeth
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before your lowland gorilla trek. Hike through dense rainforest in search of a habituated lowland gorilla family. These gorillas are larger than their mountain relatives and provide a fascinating, intimate wildlife encounter. Spend an hour observing their social interactions before returning to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon is at leisure to relax, enjoy the lodge amenities, or take a gentle nature walk. Dinner will be served in a luxurious setting.

Accommodation in Kahuzi Biega: Orchids Safari Lodge, Lodge Coco, Hotel Elizabeth
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Second Gorilla Trek or Wildlife Exploration

Today you can choose a second lowland gorilla trek or enjoy other wildlife and forest exploration activities within Kahuzi Biega. Expert guides will lead you through trails rich in flora and fauna, offering opportunities to spot other primates, antelopes, and diverse bird species. A picnic lunch can be arranged in the park for a unique wilderness dining experience. Return to the lodge for relaxation and an elegant dinner as you reflect on your extraordinary wildlife encounters.

Accommodation in Kahuzi Biega: Orchids Safari Lodge, Lodge Coco, Hotel Elizabeth
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10: Transfer to Lake Kivu for Relaxation

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic transfer to Lake Kivu, with stops along the way to admire local villages and landscapes. Upon arrival, check in at your luxury lakeside lodge and unwind by the water. Optional activities include a private boat cruise, fishing, or simply relaxing at the lodge with spa treatments. Lunch will be served lakeside, and dinner in the evening will offer fresh local fish and gourmet cuisine, creating a peaceful finale to your Congo adventure.

Accommodation at Lake Kivu: Serena Hotel Gisenyi, Paradise Malahide, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 11: Transfer to Kigali – Departure

After breakfast, check out and begin the drive back to Kigali. Along the way, enjoy the scenic beauty of Rwanda’s hills and terraced farms. Depending on your flight schedule, you may enjoy a short city tour of Kigali, visiting the Genocide Memorial or local artisan markets. Later, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure, concluding your 11 Days Virunga and Kahuzi Biega Gorilla Trekking adventure. This luxury safari leaves you with lasting memories of gorillas, wildlife, and Congo’s breathtaking landscapes.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 11 Days Virunga and Kahuzi Biega Gorilla Trekking.