Experience the ultimate luxury African adventure with the 9 Days Congo Wildlife and Gorilla Safari Holiday by Unique Africa Tours. This carefully designed safari blends the thrill of tracking endangered gorillas in Virunga National Park with the excitement of exploring Congo’s rich wildlife and the unforgettable trek up Mount Nyiragongo. Guests will also enjoy the serenity of Lake Kivu and the cultural richness of Goma, creating a perfect balance of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation. With luxury lodges, personalized service, and fine dining throughout, this safari promises a premium holiday experience in one of Africa’s most remarkable destinations.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Goma
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a professional guide from Unique Africa Tours. After a briefing, you will enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills, passing lush tea plantations and charming villages before reaching the Grande Barrière border into Congo. Following immigration formalities, you will transfer to your luxury hotel in Goma. The rest of the evening is reserved for leisure, allowing you to unwind in comfort, enjoy lake views, or indulge in a fine dining experience at the lodge.
Accommodation in Goma: Serena Hotel Goma, Lac Kivu Lodge, Cap Kivu Hotel
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)
Day 2: Transfer to Virunga National Park
After breakfast, you will leave Goma for Virunga National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic and biodiverse protected areas. On arrival, check in at your luxury lodge nestled within the park, offering sweeping forest views and an inviting atmosphere. The afternoon is free for relaxation, allowing you to take short nature walks, enjoy the serenity of your lodge, or sip sundowners with spectacular vistas. This evening, a gourmet dinner will be served, preparing you for the exciting adventures ahead.
Accommodation in Virunga: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
Wake up early for a hearty breakfast before heading to the Bukima Ranger Post for a briefing from expert rangers. Today’s highlight is an extraordinary trek through Virunga’s lush rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek is rewarding, as you witness these majestic primates up close, observing their playful young and the gentle dominance of the silverback. After spending a magical hour with the gorillas, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. The evening offers time for storytelling by the fire or a quiet dinner under the stars.
Accommodation in Virunga: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Chimpanzee Habituation Experience
After an early breakfast, join Virunga rangers for a fascinating chimpanzee habituation experience. Follow these intelligent primates as they swing through the trees, forage for food, and interact with one another. This unique activity allows for intimate encounters and incredible photographic opportunities. Later, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park before returning to your lodge. The rest of the day is free for relaxation, perhaps enjoying a massage or simply soaking in the sounds of the forest before dinner is served.
Accommodation in Virunga: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Nature Walks and Birdwatching in Virunga
Today is dedicated to exploring Virunga’s varied landscapes through guided nature walks and birdwatching expeditions. The park is home to over 700 bird species and diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers. You may also encounter smaller primates, antelopes, and unique flora along the trails. After a bush lunch, spend the afternoon at leisure at your lodge, where you can relax on a private veranda or sip a cocktail by the fire. Dinner will showcase both local Congolese and international flavors.
Accommodation in Virunga: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Transfer to Mount Nyiragongo and Begin Trek
After breakfast, you will transfer to the Kibati Ranger Post, the starting point of the Mount Nyiragongo hike. Accompanied by skilled rangers and porters, begin your ascent through different vegetation zones, from lush forests to volcanic rock paths. The trek typically takes about 5 to 6 hours, and by late afternoon, you will reach the summit. Here, the sight of the world’s largest lava lake glowing beneath you creates a surreal atmosphere. You will spend the night in summit shelters, enjoying the unforgettable luxury of watching an active volcano under the night sky.
Accommodation on Nyiragongo Summit: Summit Shelters
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Descend Nyiragongo and Transfer to Lake Kivu
After breakfast at the summit, begin your descent from Mount Nyiragongo. Upon reaching the base, you will be transferred to Goma and then continue to the shores of Lake Kivu. Check into your lakeside luxury lodge and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Optional activities include a private boat ride, swimming, or indulging in spa treatments. In the evening, enjoy a serene lakeside dinner while admiring the calm waters and starlit skies.
Accommodation at Lake Kivu: Serena Hotel Goma, Lac Kivu Lodge, Cap Kivu Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Relaxation and Optional Activities at Lake Kivu
This day is dedicated to relaxation and optional luxury activities at Lake Kivu. You may choose to go kayaking, visit nearby islands, or enjoy a cultural village tour for deeper insight into local traditions. Alternatively, spend the day at your lodge, sipping fine wines, lounging by the water, or rejuvenating with spa treatments. Lunch is served fresh and light, followed by a relaxed afternoon. A farewell dinner in the evening marks the perfect close to your Lake Kivu experience.
Accommodation at Lake Kivu: Serena Hotel Goma, Lac Kivu Lodge, Cap Kivu Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9: Transfer to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, check out from your lodge and begin the drive back to Kigali through Rwanda’s picturesque hillsides. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a short Kigali city tour, visiting highlights such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, or cultural centers. Later, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your luxury 9 Days Congo Wildlife and Gorilla Safari Holiday. This journey leaves you with lasting memories of adventure, wildlife, and premium service from Unique Africa Tours.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)
End of the 9 Days Congo Wildlife and Gorilla Safari Holiday
The 9 Days Congo Wildlife and Gorilla Safari Holiday 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