4 Days Congo Gorillas and Nyiragongo Hike

Rwakabunga Safaris invites discerning tourists to embark on an exclusive, luxury-focused 4-day journey into the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park. This itinerary seamlessly blends the awe-inspiring experience of a mountain gorilla trek with the exhilarating challenge of summiting Mount Nyiragongo, home to the world’s largest and most spectacular lava lake. Our commitment to comfort, personalised service, and safety ensures a premium and unforgettable adventure for every tourist, offering a rare opportunity to witness nature’s most profound and powerful spectacles while indulging in the finest available accommodations and logistical support.

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

The journey begins in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, where our executive ground team will welcome the tourists, providing a private briefing before setting off in a luxury 4×4 vehicle. The drive offers stunning panoramic views of the “Land of a Thousand Hills” before reaching the border crossing at Grande Barrière, Goma. After a smooth VIP assistance through immigration, tourists will be transferred into Virunga National Park, heading directly to their luxury lodge nestled in a scenic and tranquil setting. The evening is reserved for a delectable, multi-course dinner prepared by the lodge’s top chef, followed by a detailed pre-trek briefing on the highly anticipated gorilla encounter the following morning. This ensures a relaxed start to the adventure, allowing for acclimatisation and indulgence.

Accommodation Options: Mikeno Lodge, Tchegera Island Camp, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (Gisenyi)

Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking and Afternoon Relaxation

An early, gourmet breakfast will precede the drive to the park headquarters, where tourists will receive an exclusive pre-trek briefing from the Virunga National Park rangers. The main activity for the day is the profoundly moving Mountain Gorilla trekking experience, guided by elite trackers and park staff who are intimately familiar with the gorilla families’ movements. The trek is tailored to the fitness of the group but generally involves navigating lush forest paths until the habituated family is located. Upon finding the gentle giants, tourists are granted a privileged hour to observe, photograph, and simply marvel at the gorillas in their natural habitat—a truly intimate and once-in-a-lifetime encounter. After the trek, the tourists will be whisked back to the lodge for a sumptuous lunch and a dedicated afternoon of relaxation, perhaps enjoying a private massage or visiting the adjacent Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage (included).

Accommodation Options: Mikeno Lodge, Tchegera Island Camp, Bukima Tented Camp

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: The Nyiragongo Volcano Summit Hike and Overnight at the Crater Rim

Following an energizing breakfast, tourists will be driven to the Kibati Patrol Post, the official starting point for the Nyiragongo volcano hike. This is an exciting, full-day ascent of one of the world’s most active and spectacular strato-volcanoes, reaching an altitude of 3,470 meters (11,385 ft). Porters will be readily available to carry all luggage and essential supplies, allowing tourists to enjoy the scenic climb without burden. The hike traverses various ecological zones, from lush forests to rugged lava fields, with regular refreshment breaks and a packed gourmet lunch provided en route. Upon conquering the summit, tourists are rewarded with a magnificent view, especially after sunset, when the massive, churning lava lake within the crater glows with an intense, mesmerizing light. Tourists will spend the night in private, high-quality summit shelters, equipped with comfortable bedding and serviced with a hot meal.

Accommodation Options: Nyiragongo Summit Shelters.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Descent and Transfer back to Kigali

The final day begins early with a captivating view of the lava lake one last time and a warm breakfast served at the summit. The descent, typically taking between 3 to 4 hours, starts early to make the most of the cooler morning temperatures and offers stunning, far-reaching views across the Virunga National Park and the neighboring Lake Kivu region. Upon reaching the Kibati trail-head, the private 4×4 vehicle and guide will be waiting to transfer the tourists to Goma for the border crossing back into Rwanda. After re-entering Rwanda and a delightful en-route lunch at a high-end restaurant near Lake Kivu, the final leg of the journey is the comfortable drive back to Kigali. Tourists will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport for their onward flights or at their preferred luxury hotel, concluding their unforgettable, luxury Congo adventure with Rwakabunga Safaris.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 4 Days Congo Gorillas and Nyiragongo Hike.