11 Days Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega Safari

Our exclusive 11 Days Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega Safari is meticulously crafted for the discerning tourist seeking an unparalleled luxury adventure into the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s most iconic natural treasures. This journey with Rwakabunga Safaris promises intimate encounters with the majestic Mountain and Eastern Lowland Gorillas, a challenging yet rewarding ascent of the dramatic Nyiragongo Volcano, and moments of supreme relaxation on the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu. From deluxe accommodations with breathtaking views to expertly guided private experiences, every detail is handled with precision and opulence, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable exploration of the untamed beauty of the Virunga Massif and its surrounding regions. Tourists will experience the ultimate in comfort and adventure, blending thrilling wildlife tracking with serene, five-star leisure.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Bukavu (DRC)

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, your dedicated, professional guide will greet you and initiate your luxurious transfer towards the Rusizi border crossing into the Democratic Republic of Congo, making an en-route stop for a gourmet lunch. This scenic drive takes you through the verdant landscapes of Rwanda, passing the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza and the Ethnographic Museum in Butare, allowing tourists to appreciate the rich cultural history before reaching the border. Once formalities are complete and you enter Bukavu, you will be whisked away to your opulent lakeside lodge, where a sumptuous dinner awaits, followed by an evening of relaxation to prepare for the adventure ahead.

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

Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2: Exclusive Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park

The day begins with a transfer to the Kahuzi-Biega National Park headquarters, followed by a detailed, private briefing on the Eastern Lowland Gorilla trekking etiquette. Accompanied by experienced, armed rangers, tourists will embark on a less strenuous trek than its mountain counterpart, searching for the largest gorilla subspecies in the world. Once located, you will spend a magical and strictly controlled hour observing their captivating family dynamics, an incredibly exclusive experience in their natural habitat. After this profound wildlife encounter, you will return to your luxurious lodge for a private late lunch and an afternoon of repose by Lake Kivu, perhaps enjoying a bespoke spa treatment.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Scenic Transfer from Bukavu to Goma and Lake Kivu Relaxation

After a leisurely breakfast overlooking Lake Kivu, you will be transferred to the Bukavu port to board a private speedboat for a scenic cruise across the vast expanse of Lake Kivu, heading towards Goma. This is a wonderfully luxurious way to travel, bypassing challenging road conditions and offering magnificent views of the surrounding hills and volcanoes from the water. Upon arrival in Goma, your private driver will transfer you to your five-star hotel on the lake shore. The rest of the afternoon is dedicated to unwinding, enjoying the hotel’s exquisite facilities, or an optional, exclusive sunset cruise on Lake Kivu before a fine-dining experience.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

An early start sees you driving north from Goma to the Virunga National Park headquarters, where you will receive your final briefing for the day’s main event: Mountain Gorilla Trekking. A select group of tourists, along with expert trackers and porters, will venture into the dense forest, an often challenging but exhilarating hike in search of one of the habituated gorilla families. Finding and spending an unforgettable hour in the presence of these gentle giants is a truly life-changing, exclusive privilege. Post-trek, you will be transferred to the ultra-luxury Mikeno Lodge, located in a tranquil forested area, to relax by your private fireplace and savor the sheer accomplishment.

Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge, Tchegera Island Tented Camp (Substitute), Bukima Tented Camp (Upgraded private tent)

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Virunga Explorations: Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage and Chimpanzee Tracking

The fifth day offers a unique luxury experience, beginning with an intimate, private visit to the world-renowned Senkwekwe Centre, the only Mountain Gorilla Orphanage globally. Tourists will gain exclusive access to learn about the conservation efforts and see the orphaned gorillas up close, a poignant and educational moment. Following this, you will participate in a specialized, early morning Chimpanzee Habituation or Tracking experience in the Mahura forest, observing the playful primates waking up and starting their day. The afternoon is reserved for leisure at Mikeno Lodge, enjoying the stunning views or an optional refined nature walk.

Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge, Tchegera Island Tented Camp (Substitute), Bukima Tented Camp (Upgraded private tent)

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Ascent of Mount Nyiragongo Volcano to the Summit Shelters

Today is dedicated to the epic challenge of hiking Mount Nyiragongo, one of Africa’s most active and spectacular stratovolcanoes. Your private team of porters will ensure your ascent is as comfortable as possible, carrying all essential gear, including gourmet provisions for the trek. The hike takes approximately four to six hours, ascending through lush forest and over lava flows, offering increasingly dramatic views. Upon reaching the summit, tourists will check into the basic but privately reserved summit shelters, preparing for the highlight of the evening: a mesmerizing view of the world’s largest, most violent lava lake glowing fiery red under the night sky, an exclusive and truly primal natural phenomenon.

Accommodation: Nyiragongo Summit Shelters (Private/Best Available Section)

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Descent of Nyiragongo and Luxurious Retreat to Tchegera Island

Waking up on the volcano rim, tourists will witness a spectacular sunrise over the Virunga Massif before beginning the descent back down to the Kibati Patrol Post. The descent is faster, usually taking around three hours. Upon reaching the bottom, your private vehicle will transfer you to the waiting speed boat at the Butembo port. This journey leads to the exquisite Tchegera Island Tented Camp, a private retreat nestled on a horseshoe-shaped island in Lake Kivu. You will arrive in time for a delectable late lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing in this oasis of calm, recovering from the hike with a sundowner overlooking the lake and the distant volcanoes.

Accommodation: Tchegera Island Tented Camp, Goma Serena Hotel (Substitute)

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Leisure Day at Tchegera Island Tented Camp

Day eight is an entire day dedicated to pure, luxury relaxation and water-based leisure activities at the exclusive Tchegera Island Tented Camp. Tourists can choose to indulge in complimentary activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling in the clear waters of Lake Kivu. Alternatively, one can simply relax on the private beaches, enjoy a bespoke massage, or take a gentle nature walk around the island, savoring the tranquility and the impeccable service. All meals are provided at the luxury camp, culminating in a beautiful lakeside dinner under the stars.

Accommodation: Tchegera Island Tented Camp, Goma Serena Hotel (Substitute)

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Transfer from Tchegera Island to Gisenyi (Rwanda) and Lake Kivu Views

After a final sumptuous breakfast on Tchegera Island, you will board the private speed boat back to the mainland, where you will be transferred to the Goma-Gisenyi border crossing back into Rwanda. After completing the necessary border formalities, you will continue to a five-star lodge on the shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi (Rubavu), Rwanda. The afternoon is at your leisure to enjoy the resort’s facilities, such as the private beach, swimming pool, or a therapeutic walk along the shore. Dinner is a refined affair at the hotel’s top restaurant, offering stunning panoramic views of the lake.

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (Rwanda), Lake Kivu Eeza Lodge (Rwanda), Gorillas Lake Kivu Hotel (Rwanda)

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10: Exclusive Coffee/Tea Plantation Visit – Cultural Immersion

Today offers a curated cultural experience away from the wildlife, starting with an exclusive, private tour of a local high-altitude coffee or tea plantation near Gisenyi. Tourists will learn the entire process, from crop to cup, culminating in a private tasting session of some of the finest Rwandan brews. The afternoon features an immersive cultural encounter, perhaps a visit to a local cooperative or a community-led traditional music and dance performance, tailored to offer deep, respectful insights into the local culture. A final gala dinner at your luxury hotel marks the end of your incredible Congo-Rwanda adventure.

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (Rwanda), Lake Kivu Eeza Lodge (Rwanda), Gorillas Lake Kivu Hotel (Rwanda)

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 11: Departure from Kigali International Airport

Enjoy a final, leisurely breakfast at your luxurious Lake Kivu hotel before beginning the scenic road transfer back to Kigali. This drive offers one last chance to appreciate the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” with its terraced fields and rolling green landscape. Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time for some last-minute, high-end souvenir shopping or a brief, respectful visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. You will be dropped off by your dedicated guide at Kigali International Airport (KGL) in ample time for your international departure, carrying with you memories of one of the world’s most luxurious and profound safari experiences.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 11 Days Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega Safari.