7 Days Congo Gorillas and Wildlife Adventure

Embark on an extraordinary luxury journey into the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo with Rwakabunga Safaris. This exclusive 7-day itinerary promises an unparalleled experience, blending the awe-inspiring encounters with both Mountain and Eastern Lowland Gorillas with the supreme comfort and personalised service of the region’s finest accommodations. Designed for the discerning tourists, this adventure transcends the ordinary safari, offering deep immersion into two of Africa’s most biodiverse national parks, Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega, while ensuring your stay is nothing short of opulent and rejuvenating after exhilarating days in the wilderness. Prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime expedition where conservation meets ultimate luxury.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda – Transfer to Bukavu, DR Congo

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, your dedicated private guide will meet you and commence the luxurious road transfer across Rwanda’s stunning “land of a thousand hills,” heading towards the Rusizi border post near Cyangugu. The journey is an experience in itself, offering sweeping views of tea plantations and the legendary Nyungwe Forest region, all enjoyed from the comfort of a custom-equipped luxury vehicle. After completing border formalities, you will continue the short drive to your exclusive lakeside accommodation in Bukavu, the gateway to Kahuzi-Biega National Park, where you can settle in, relax, and anticipate the adventure ahead. The evening culminates with a gourmet dinner overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu.

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

Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)

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

An early start is essential for today’s primary activity: a rare encounter with the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. Following a pre-trekking briefing from the park rangers, tourists will venture into the dense forest, an experience that is generally less strenuous than mountain gorilla trekking due to the park’s topography. The Eastern Lowlands are the world’s largest gorilla subspecies, and spending an unforgettable hour observing a family’s complex social dynamics and immense size is a truly privileged wildlife moment. After returning from the forest, the afternoon is dedicated to relaxation at the lodge, perhaps with a spa treatment, before a lavish dinner is served.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Transfer to Goma via Lake Kivu Speedboat

Following a leisurely breakfast in Bukavu, you will be escorted to the harbor for a private luxury speedboat transfer across the magnificent Lake Kivu to Goma, the capital of North Kivu province and the entry point for Virunga National Park. This scenic boat ride provides breathtaking panoramic views of the lakeside communities and surrounding volcanoes, offering a relaxing and efficient way to travel between the two destinations. Upon arrival in Goma, your private vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to your exceptionally luxurious lodge situated within or near Virunga National Park, providing ample time for check-in and unwinding ahead of tomorrow’s epic mountain gorilla trek. The afternoon allows for relaxation by the pool or enjoying the lodge’s premium facilities before an exquisite dinner.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

Today is the pinnacle of the safari: trekking to see the endangered Mountain Gorillas of Virunga National Park. After an early morning briefing at the park headquarters, expert trackers will lead the tourists into the misty volcanic forests in search of one of the habituated gorilla families, a journey that can range from a short walk to a few hours of challenging, yet incredibly rewarding, hiking. Upon locating the gorillas, you will spend one magical hour quietly observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat, a profound and moving conservation experience. Returning to the lodge, the afternoon is spent reflecting on this once-in-a-lifetime encounter, with every luxury amenity available for your comfort and recuperation.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Mount Nyiragongo Volcano Hike (Ascent to the Summit)

Embrace an adventurous challenge today as you set out to hike the majestic Mount Nyiragongo, home to the world’s largest and most volatile lava lake. Following a thorough briefing and meeting your dedicated team of porters and guides, the ascent begins, a challenging trek that winds through diverse volcanic ecosystems, offering increasingly spectacular views of the Virunga chain of volcanoes and the surrounding landscapes. The full-service, luxury nature of this hike means that all necessary gear, including private chef-prepared meals, is handled by your support team. Reaching the summit in the late afternoon rewards tourists with the unparalleled spectacle of the incandescent lava lake glowing against the twilight sky.

Accommodation: Nyiragongo Summit Shelters.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Descent from Nyiragongo – Transfer to Lake Kivu Retreat

Waking up early, tourists will enjoy a final magnificent view of the lava lake at sunrise and a summit breakfast before beginning the easier descent down the volcano. The morning trek back to the Kibati Patrol Post is swift, offering new perspectives on the flora and fauna of the lower slopes. Upon meeting your private vehicle, you will be transferred to a tranquil, luxury retreat on the shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi (Rwanda side of the border for better access and superior luxury lodging), providing a perfect transition from the rustic summit adventure to pure relaxation. The rest of the day is at leisure, perhaps for a late afternoon swim, a boat trip on the lake, or simply unwinding in the supreme comfort of your hotel.

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Kivu Lodge Gisenyi, Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Departure from Kigali, Rwanda

After a final sumptuous breakfast overlooking the beautiful Lake Kivu, your dedicated guide will manage a smooth and swift border crossing back into Rwanda. The final leg of your journey is a relaxed, scenic drive back to Kigali International Airport, perfectly timed for your scheduled outbound flight. Depending on your flight schedule, an optional brief city tour or visit to a cultural site can be arranged. This marks the end of your luxurious and unforgettable Congo Gorillas and Wildlife Adventure with Rwakabunga Safaris, leaving you with memories of profound wildlife encounters and exceptional comfort.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 7 Days Congo Gorillas and Wildlife Adventure.