3 Days Virunga Gorilla Trekking Safari

Rwakabunga Safaris invites you to experience an exclusive, luxury gorilla trekking safari into the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park. This compact three-day itinerary is designed for discerning tourists seeking a profound encounter with the critically endangered mountain gorillas, while enjoying the highest levels of comfort, personalised service, and privacy. From the moment of arrival in Kigali, Rwanda, every detail of your journey will be meticulously managed, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable adventure across the border to the majestic Virunga Massif. Prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends the raw beauty of the jungle with unparalleled luxury accommodation and gourmet dining, creating a truly rich and impactful safari.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Virunga National Park

Your Rwakabunga Safaris guide will meet you upon arrival at Kigali International Airport (KGL), initiating your journey with a private, luxury transfer in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle. The drive from Kigali to the border crossing near Goma is an experience in itself, taking you through Rwanda’s lush, terraced hillsides, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” before arriving at the Grand Barrier border post. At the border, you will be assisted with all immigration and Virunga National Park clearances in a smooth, expedited manner, which includes collecting your pre-arranged gorilla trekking permits. A short, private transfer then takes you to your exquisite accommodation, ideally located within or near the park headquarters in Rumangabo, providing spectacular views of the rift valley and surrounding volcanoes. You will have time to settle into your opulent suite, featuring a private deck, fireplace, and luxurious amenities, before enjoying a superb multi-course dinner prepared by the lodge’s chef, complemented by a fine selection of wines.

Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge, Ngila Lodge, Tchegera Island Camp (for pre- or post-trek relaxation)

Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2: Exclusive Mountain Gorilla Trekking Experience

A pre-dawn wake-up calls for an early, gourmet breakfast at the lodge, preparing you for the highly anticipated mountain gorilla trekking activity. Your private guide will transfer you to the Bukima Patrol Post for the mandatory briefing by the park rangers on gorilla tracking etiquette and safety protocols. The trekking experience begins around 8:00 AM, leading you deep into the dense, misty rainforests of the Virunga Massif, accompanied by experienced trackers and armed rangers. Depending on the gorilla family’s location, the trek can vary from one to several hours of challenging hiking. The ultimate reward is a privileged, tranquil hour spent observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat—watching juveniles play, mothers groom their young, and the formidable silverback stand guard. After this deeply moving encounter, you will descend the slopes and return to the lodge for a celebratory late lunch and an afternoon of restful luxury, perhaps opting for a relaxing massage or a private guided visit to the nearby Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage, the only facility of its kind in the world, to meet the resident orphaned gorillas.

Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge, Ngila Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp (Luxury Tents)

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Leisurely Morning – Departure

Your final day begins with a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, allowing time to soak in the serene atmosphere and the last moments of the stunning Virunga scenery. Depending on your flight schedule, a final morning activity is available, such as a guided nature walk through the Mahura Forest trails surrounding the lodge, offering superb bird-watching opportunities and a chance to spot other primates like blue monkeys and colobus monkeys. Alternatively, you may choose to simply relax on your private veranda, contemplating the unforgettable gorilla experience. You will then check out and begin your return journey, transferred by your private Rwakabunga Safaris guide back across the border into Rwanda. A stop for a sophisticated lunch in Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu is arranged before the final drive back to Kigali. Tourists will be dropped off directly at Kigali International Airport (KGL) for their outbound flight, or at a post-safari hotel, carrying with them memories of a luxury, impactful, and life-changing safari adventure.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 3 Days Virunga Gorilla Trekking Safari.