This 4 Days Virunga Gorillas and Nyiragongo Hike is one of the best safaris in D.R. Congo, allowing visitors to participate in mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park on the border of Uganda and Rwanda.
Virunga National Park is one of the most famous gorilla trekking destinations in the world, attracting thousands of travelers to Africa to observe these endangered gorillas. Additionally, you will hike to the summit of Nyiragongo, an active volcanic mountain, and spend a night at its peak. This safari starts and ends in Kigali, Rwanda.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to D.R. Congo
Our company driver guide will pick you up from Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. A briefing session will follow on how you will spend these 4 days in Virunga gorillas and Nyiragongo, before driving to D.R. Congo. Enjoy lunch en route in Gisenyi while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Lake Kivu and its beaches.
Continue the journey to D.R. Congo, crossing through the Goma border. Check in at the Grand Barrier post for clearance and gorilla permit booking, then proceed to the lodge that was booked beforehand.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking
Have breakfast in the morning, pack your lunch box, and drive to the headquarters for a briefing from the park guide about the dos and don’ts during mountain gorilla trekking. If you are not physically fit enough to carry your bags, you can hire porters to assist you.
Set off into the forest and begin your 1-6 hours’ search for these endangered mountain gorillas. While searching for mountain gorillas, keep your eyes wide open to spot birds, mammals, primates, and more. Once you locate your allocated gorilla family, you will be allowed to spend one hour in their presence, observing juveniles, infants, youngsters playing with their parents, and the silverback performing its protective role. After the hour is up, return to the starting point where your driver will take you back to the lodge.
Day 3: Hike Nyiragongo and Overnight at the Summit
Wake up very early in the morning for breakfast. By 8:00 am, you must be at the starting point for the briefing. Hiking to the summit of this volcanic mountain takes 5-6 hours, during which you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of lush forests, Lake Kivu, mammals, primates, and birds along the way.
Spend the night at the summit, enjoying views of the boiling lava lake, taking nighttime photos, and feeling the cool breeze.
Day 4: Descend and Departure
It’s a relaxed morning. Wake up for breakfast and prepare to descend back to the base of the volcano. Descending will be much easier, mostly sliding down. Once you reach Kibati station, your driver guide will welcome you and drive you back to Kigali International Airport for departure or overnight stay.
