9 Days Congo Gorillas, Culture and Lake Kivu Tour

Embark on an exclusive and luxurious 9-day journey into the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with Rwakabunga Safaris, a tour designed for discerning tourists seeking a profound encounter with nature and rich cultural heritage. This premium itinerary combines the thrill of trekking both Mountain and Eastern Lowland Gorillas, the tranquility of the majestic Lake Kivu, and authentic cultural immersion, all while ensuring your comfort and privacy in the region’s finest accommodations. Prepare for an unforgettable expedition that blends adventure with unparalleled luxury, offering a rare glimpse into the DRC’s spectacular biodiversity and resilient spirit.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Goma, DRC

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport (KGL), you will be warmly welcomed by your private guide and chauffeured in a luxurious, air-conditioned vehicle toward the Rwanda-DRC border at La Corniche Grande Barrière, before proceeding into Goma. This lengthy and scenic transfer is handled with ultimate care and comfort, ensuring a seamless cross-border experience. Following immigration formalities, you will continue to your exquisite lakeside lodge in Goma, located on the northern shores of Lake Kivu. The rest of the afternoon is dedicated to relaxation, allowing you to settle into your plush surroundings, enjoy the stunning volcanic and lake views, and prepare for the adventures ahead. Your first evening concludes with a gourmet dining experience featuring local and international cuisine.

Accommodation: Goma Serena Hotel, Lac Kivu Lodge, Ihusi Hotel Goma

Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

An early start will see you transfer from your lodge to the Virunga National Park headquarters, an area renowned for its conservation efforts, where you will receive a comprehensive briefing on the critical rules of gorilla trekking. The main activity of the day involves an exhilarating trek into the dense Virunga forest, led by experienced park rangers, in search of a habituated Mountain Gorilla family. Once located, you will spend a precious, awe-inspiring hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat—a truly exclusive and humbling experience. After the trek, you will return to the luxury of your lodge to unwind, share tales of your encounter, and enjoy a refined dinner.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Leisure on Lake Kivu’s Tchegera Island

This day is dedicated to recuperation and exclusive leisure after your gorilla trekking adventure. You will take a private speedboat transfer to the unique, horseshoe-shaped Tchegera Island, a stunning haven nestled within Lake Kivu. The island offers an incomparable setting for relaxation, with luxurious safari tents overlooking the lake and the distant Virunga Volcanoes. Activities include kayaking on the tranquil lake waters, leisurely walks around the island to spot birdlife, or simply unwinding on a sun lounger with a panoramic view. A delightful lunch will be served island-style, followed by a mesmerizing sunset viewing opportunity before your upscale dinner.

Accommodation: Tchegera Island Tented Camp, Lac Kivu Lodge, Goma Serena Hotel

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Transfer to Bukavu via Lake Kivu Private Boat Cruise

Enjoy a final gourmet breakfast in Goma before embarking on a truly luxurious journey across the shimmering waters of Lake Kivu. This day’s activity is a private, exclusive boat cruise southward, traversing the length of the lake to the city of Bukavu in South Kivu Province. The scenic cruise offers breathtaking views of the lush, terraced hillsides and local fishing villages dotting the coastline. Upon arrival in Bukavu, you will be met and transferred to your superior lodge. The afternoon allows for check-in and relaxation, preparing you for the next primate encounter. Dinner is served at your sophisticated lakeside hotel.

Accommodation: L’Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Hotel Horizon

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Today’s profound experience is the trek to see the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, a distinct and equally captivating subspecies compared to the Mountain Gorillas. After a morning briefing, your expert rangers will guide you into the forest. These larger primates typically reside in bigger family groups, and observing them is an incredibly rewarding wildlife encounter. The trek is often less strenuous than the mountainous terrain of Virunga, though equally exhilarating. Following your one-hour observation period, you will return to your luxurious Bukavu base for a late, lavish lunch and an evening of relaxation.

Accommodation: L’Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Hotel Horizon

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Culture and Conservation Visit to Lwiro Sanctuary

Following breakfast, you will engage in a deeply moving cultural and conservation experience. The morning involves a private visit to the Lwiro Chimpanzee and Primate Sanctuary, a significant center dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of orphaned primates rescued from the bushmeat and illegal pet trade. This guided tour offers tourists a unique opportunity to learn about the challenges of conservation in the region and to observe chimpanzees and other primates in a semi-wild environment. The afternoon is reserved for an exclusive cultural excursion to a local community or a visit to a tea plantation in the surrounding hills, offering insight into the local way of life.

Accommodation: L’Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Hotel Horizon

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Return to Goma and Evening City Tour

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your Bukavu accommodation. You will then embark on another smooth, private speedboat journey back across Lake Kivu to Goma. Upon arrival in Goma, after checking in to a luxury hotel, the late afternoon is dedicated to a curated city tour designed to showcase the vibrant life and recent developments of this resilient city. Highlights may include visiting the local markets, seeing the remnants of the 2002 volcano lava flow, and driving past the UN and humanitarian organization hubs. Your evening concludes with a premium dining experience in Goma.

Accommodation: Goma Serena Hotel, Lac Kivu Lodge, Ihusi Hotel Goma

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Mount Nyiragongo Hike Preparation and Leisure

This day is structured for ultimate comfort and preparation, catering to tourists who may opt for the challenging but exhilarating Mount Nyiragongo hike. While the actual hike is not scheduled on this itinerary, this day ensures you are rested and ready for your departure. You may choose an optional scenic flight over the Virunga chain (at extra cost and subject to availability) or enjoy an entirely leisurely day at your luxury hotel, perhaps indulging in spa treatments or relaxing by the pool. A late afternoon private discussion with your guide to review your entire journey will be followed by a farewell gala dinner, reflecting on the profound encounters of the past week.

Accommodation: Goma Serena Hotel, Lac Kivu Lodge, Ihusi Hotel Goma

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Departure from Kigali

Following a final exquisite breakfast in Goma, your luxurious overland transfer will commence, crossing the border back into Rwanda. The comfortable drive will take you directly to Kigali International Airport (KGL) in time for your scheduled outbound flight. This departure day is handled with the same high level of personalised service, ensuring a smooth and timely journey to conclude your memorable 9 Days Congo Gorillas, Culture and Lake Kivu Tour with Rwakabunga Safaris.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 9 Days Congo Gorillas, Culture and Lake Kivu Tour.