4 Days Congo gorillas & Nyiragongo

This 4 Days Congo Gorillas & Nyiragongo Safari combines two of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s most exciting adventures. Trek the endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park and hike the legendary Mount Nyiragongo, home to one of the world’s largest active lava lakes. The safari offers an incredible mix of wildlife, adventure, volcanic landscapes, rainforest exploration, and breathtaking scenery around Lake Kivu.

Starting and ending in Kigali, Rwanda, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to experience two of Congo’s most famous attractions in a single journey.

Day 1: Kigali to Bukavu

After an early breakfast, your driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kigali and transfer you to the Rusizi border. After completing immigration formalities, cross into the Democratic Republic of Congo and continue to Bukavu.

The journey offers beautiful views of Lake Kivu, rolling hills, and rural communities. Upon arrival in Bukavu, check into your lodge and enjoy the rest of the afternoon relaxing.

Depending on your arrival time, you may take a short city tour or enjoy views of Lake Kivu from your lodge.

Accommodation Options

Budget: Exodus Bukavu Hotel

Mid-range: Panorama Hotel Bukavu

Luxury: Orchid Safari Club

Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Goma

After breakfast, transfer to Kahuzi-Biega National Park headquarters for a briefing by park rangers.

Begin your trek through the rainforest in search of the endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas. The trek may take between one and four hours depending on the gorillas’ location.

Once the gorillas are located, spend one hour observing them as they feed, groom, and interact within their family group. Eastern Lowland Gorillas are the largest gorilla subspecies and provide a unique wildlife experience found only in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

After the trek, return for lunch before beginning the drive north to Goma. The route follows the shores of Lake Kivu and provides spectacular views throughout the journey.

Arrive in Goma in the evening and prepare for the Nyiragongo hike the following day.

Accommodation Options

Budget: Kibumba Tented Camp

Mid-range: Bukima Tented Camp

Luxury: Mikeno Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Nyiragongo Hike to the Summit

After an early breakfast, transfer to Kibati Ranger Post for registration and a briefing.

Begin the ascent of Mount Nyiragongo, one of Africa’s most active volcanoes. The hike passes through lush forests, volcanic terrain, and dramatic landscapes as you climb towards the summit.

The trek typically takes between five and seven hours, depending on pace and weather conditions. Several rest stops allow time to enjoy the scenery and take photographs.

Upon reaching the summit, settle into the mountain shelters before heading to the crater rim. As darkness falls, witness the incredible sight of the glowing lava lake far below. The views from the summit are among the most spectacular natural attractions in Africa.

Spend the night at the Nyiragongo summit cabins.

Accommodation

Nyiragongo Summit Shelters

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Descend Nyiragongo and Return to Kigali

Wake early to enjoy sunrise views over the Virunga Mountains, Lake Kivu, and the volcanic landscapes surrounding the crater.

After breakfast, begin the descent back to Kibati Ranger Post. The descent usually takes between three and five hours.

Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to the Rwanda border. Complete immigration procedures before continuing to Kigali.

Arrive in Kigali during the late afternoon or evening and transfer to Kigali International Airport or your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Optional Activities

Kahuzi-Biega National Park

• Mount Kahuzi hiking
• Bird watching excursions
• Guided rainforest nature walks
• Forest photography tours
• Primate viewing experiences

Virunga National Park

• Nature walks around Bukima
• Bird watching tours
• Wildlife photography experiences
• Community cultural visits

Goma and Lake Kivu

• Lake Kivu boat excursion
• Cultural and community visits
• Local market tour
• Coffee farm experience
• Sunset cruise on Lake Kivu

Rwanda Extensions

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Golden monkey tracking
• Nyungwe chimpanzee tracking
• Akagera wildlife safari
• Kigali city tour