Overview
Embark on an epic 5-day Congo safari to the heart of Virunga National Park. This unforgettable journey is a true test of adventure, focusing on two bucket-list experiences. First, you’ll trek through dense rainforests to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, offering a profound wildlife experience.
Subsequently, the trip culminates with a challenging, yet rewarding, climb up the iconic, active Nyiragongo Volcano. Ultimately, you’ll reach the summit to witness the mesmerizing, smoky glow of the world’s largest lava lake, creating a spectacular finale to your Congo exploration.
Highlights
Mountain gorilla trekking
Ibylwacu cultural center visit
Golden monkey trekking
Visit the Musanze caves
Kigali city tour
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Gisenyi Lake Kivu
our journey begins when our expert guide picks you up from your hotel room and provides a detailed trip briefing. Next, we immediately set off toward Gisenyi, driving through scenic Ruhengeri.
Cultural Immersion and Lake Kivu
First, we make our initial stop at the fascinating cultural center in the Iby’Iwacu Village (found near Ruhengeri) for an immersive look at local Rwandan culture. Afterward, we continue the drive to the lakeside town of Gisenyi. Upon arrival at Lake Kivu, clients have the option to take a relaxing boat cruise if they wish.
Finally, you will spend the night at a hand-picked accommodation, with overnight stays available at either a lakeside lodge or a premium hotel.
Day 2: Hike Nyiragongo Volcano
After a hearty breakfast, you will transfer directly to Nyiragongo National Park for a mandatory briefing. Subsequently, your strenuous but rewarding hike to the Nyiragongo crater begins!
The climb to the summit typically takes only 5 to 6 hours. As you ascend, you will trek through lush tropical rainforests. So be sure to carry a rain jacket to prepare for sudden climate changes. For safety and comfort, we strongly recommend you wear sturdy rubber shoes, and bring a climbing stick, a headlamp, and plenty of drinking water.
Finally, you will spend the night in cozy tented camps pitched at the volcano’s summit. Here, a hot dinner is provided for you right next to the world’s largest lava lake.
Day 3: Descent and transfer to Mikeno lodge
Following a rewarding breakfast at the summit camp, you will begin your descent down the Nyiragongo Volcano. Once you reach the bottom, your driver will immediately transfer you to the city of Goma.
In Goma, you can enjoy a relaxing nature walk through the vibrant village. This offers a unique opportunity to interact with the local community. Finally, you will spend the night at the luxurious Mikeno Lodge, where you can relax and prepare for the next stage of your safari adventure.
Day 4: Gorilla trekking in Virunga
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast. Crucially, trekkers must carry packed lunches from Mikeno Lodge and ensure they have enough drinking water for the day.
First, your driver will transfer you to the Virunga National Park headquarters for a vital briefing on gorilla trekking rules and etiquette (do’s and don’ts). We require an early start because this ensures you reach the mountain gorillas while they are still in their nests, before they set off to forage for food.
At 8:00 AM, you will start your journey into the forest. Furthermore, as you trek, you won’t just see gorillas; you will encounter other mammals like monkeys and elephants, plus diverse bird species. Once your guide locates a gorilla family, you will spend a magical hour observing them—a truly unforgettable experience. Remember, gorilla permits cost USD $400.
Finally, after your long day of hiking, you will return to the lodge for a well-deserved dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Kigali city tour & Departure
To conclude your safari, you will enjoy a final morning breakfast. Immediately afterward, your driver will transfer you across the border to Kigali, Rwanda.
Upon arrival, you will embark on a brief but meaningful Kigali city tour, offering you insight into Rwanda’s vibrant capital and culture. Finally, your driver will take you directly to Kigali International Airport (KGL) for your flight back home, marking the end of your incredible 5-day Congo adventure.