Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Unique Africa Tours on this 12 Days Congo Gorilla Safari and Nyiragongo Volcano tour, designed for travelers who crave both luxury and authentic African wildlife encounters. This immersive safari combines the thrill of trekking mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park, the adventure of hiking Mount Nyiragongo to witness its glowing lava lake, and the relaxation of Lake Kivu’s serene shores. Alongside these natural wonders, guests will experience Congo’s rich culture, local communities, and extraordinary biodiversity. With carefully selected luxury lodges, fine dining, and expert-guided experiences, this tour offers a perfect balance of adventure, wildlife, and indulgence.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Goma
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly received by a professional guide from Unique Africa Tours. After a detailed safari briefing, enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda’s lush hills and tea plantations toward the Grande Barrière border into Congo. Upon completing border formalities, continue to your luxury accommodation in Goma, where you can relax and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Kivu. The evening is reserved for leisure, including spa treatments or a gourmet dinner overlooking the lake.
Accommodation in Goma: Serena Hotel Goma, Lac Kivu Lodge, Cap Kivu Hotel
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)
Day 2: Explore Goma and Local Culture
After breakfast, embark on a cultural and scenic tour of Goma, exploring vibrant local markets, art galleries, and handicraft centers. Gain insight into Congolese traditions and craftsmanship while enjoying the charm of this lakeside city. In the afternoon, indulge in a private boat cruise on Lake Kivu or enjoy leisure time at your lodge. Return in the evening for a fine dining experience with local and international cuisine, setting the stage for your upcoming gorilla trekking adventure.
Accommodation in Goma: Serena Hotel Goma, Lac Kivu Lodge, Cap Kivu Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: Transfer to Virunga National Park
Following breakfast, drive to Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest protected rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, check in at your luxury lodge, surrounded by pristine forest and dramatic mountain vistas. The afternoon is free for relaxation or optional nature walks to spot birds and smaller wildlife. The evening features sundowners followed by a gourmet dinner, providing a perfect introduction to the wonders of Virunga.
Accommodation in Virunga: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga
After an early breakfast, head to the Bukima Ranger Post for a briefing before embarking on your mountain gorilla trek. Hike through lush rainforest with expert trackers until you reach a habituated gorilla family. Spend an hour observing their behaviors, from playful infants to dominant silverbacks, in their natural habitat. Return to your lodge for lunch and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Evening dinner is served with a selection of local and international delicacies.
Accommodation in Virunga: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Chimpanzee Habituation and Forest Exploration
After breakfast, join expert rangers for a chimpanzee habituation experience. Trek through dense forest to observe semi-habituated chimpanzees as they interact, forage, and move through their environment. This rare experience offers unique insight into primate behavior and excellent photographic opportunities. Later, enjoy a picnic lunch within the park before returning to your lodge. Evening relaxation is complemented with a gourmet dinner in the heart of Virunga.
Accommodation in Virunga: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Nature Walks and Birdwatching
After breakfast, enjoy guided nature walks and birdwatching in Virunga National Park. Discover exotic bird species, smaller primates, and the diverse flora that make the park a conservation jewel. A bush lunch in a scenic clearing adds a unique wilderness dining experience. Return to your lodge for relaxation, taking in panoramic forest views. Dinner is served with locally sourced ingredients and international flavors, enhancing the luxury safari experience.
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, embark on a scenic drive to Kahuzi Biega National Park, home to the endangered eastern lowland gorillas. En route, enjoy picturesque landscapes of Congo’s rolling hills and villages. Upon arrival, check in at your luxury lodge, then enjoy a relaxing lunch with views of the surrounding rainforest. The afternoon is free for optional guided walks or spa treatments. Dinner in the evening is served in an elegant setting with local 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 embarking on your lowland gorilla trek. Hike through dense rainforest trails in search of a habituated gorilla family. Eastern lowland gorillas are larger than their mountain counterparts, providing a thrilling and intimate wildlife encounter. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Dinner is served in luxury, offering a perfect end to the day’s adventure.
Accommodation in Kahuzi Biega: Orchids Safari Lodge, Lodge Coco, Hotel Elizabeth
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9: Second Lowland Gorilla Trek or Wildlife Exploration
Today offers the option of a second lowland gorilla trek or exploration of Kahuzi Biega’s rich biodiversity. Guided walks may include spotting other primates, antelopes, and rare bird species. A picnic lunch in the park provides a unique wilderness dining experience. Return to your lodge for relaxation, followed by a gourmet dinner featuring local flavors and international cuisine. Evening leisure allows time to 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 Mount Nyiragongo and Begin Hike
After breakfast, transfer to the Kibati Ranger Post, the starting point of Mount Nyiragongo’s trek. Ascend through forests and volcanic landscapes with the assistance of skilled guides and porters. The climb typically takes 5 to 6 hours, culminating in the surreal sight of the glowing lava lake. Spend the night in summit shelters, enjoying the unique luxury of witnessing an active volcano up close under a starry sky. Dinner will be served at the summit, completing a day of adventure.
Accommodation on Nyiragongo Summit: Summit Shelters
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 11: Descend Nyiragongo and Transfer to Lake Kivu
Wake early to enjoy a mesmerizing sunrise over the lava lake before descending Mount Nyiragongo. Once at the base, transfer to Goma and continue to Lake Kivu for relaxation. Check in at your luxury lakeside lodge and enjoy a private boat cruise, swimming, or spa treatments in the afternoon. Lunch and dinner are served in style, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and exquisite presentation. The evening offers tranquil lakeside views for reflection.
Accommodation at Lake Kivu: Serena Hotel Gisenyi, Paradise Malahide, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 12: Transfer to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, check out and drive back to Kigali through scenic Rwandan hills. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a brief Kigali city tour, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local artisan markets. Later, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure, marking the conclusion of your 12 Days Congo Gorilla Safari and Nyiragongo Volcano adventure. This luxury journey leaves lasting memories of wildlife, volcanoes, and the beauty of Eastern Congo.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)
End of the 12 Days Congo Gorilla Safari and Nyiragongo Volcano.
The 12 Days Congo Gorilla Safari and Nyiragongo Volcano cost includes;
- Airport Transfers.
- Gorilla Trekking Permits.
- Chimpanzee Tracking Permits.
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Park entrance fees.
- Tour Guide allowances.
- Burundi Cultural Experience.
- Bottled water in the car.
- Relevant Government taxes.
The tour cost excludes;
- International air fare.
- Visa fees.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Tips to local guides.
- Personal shopping bills.
- Alcoholic drinks.
- Items not listed as included in the cost