This 5-day gorilla trekking and Mount Nyiragongo hike safari is an active adventure that brings you close to mountain gorillas and takes you to the top of an active volcano. It is ideal for travelers who are physically fit and interested in wildlife, hiking, and nature experiences. During this safari, you will observe gorillas at close range and learn about their social behavior, including feeding, grooming, movement, and communication.
Besides gorillas, you may also see other primates such as vervet monkeys and baboons. Bird lovers will enjoy seeing many bird species and butterflies along forest trails. The highlight of the hike is reaching the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, where you can safely view boiling lava inside the crater.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to D.R. Congo
Upon arrival at Kigali, your company guide will meet you at the airport and assist with your luggage. After a short safari briefing, begin the drive toward Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
After crossing the border, continue to your booked hotel or lodge. Check in, relax, enjoy dinner, and spend the night near the park.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
After an early breakfast, drive to Bukima for a briefing before gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park. A ranger guide will lead you into the forest to search for a gorilla family. Gorilla trekking can take several hours depending on their location.
Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one full hour observing them. You will watch how they interact, climb trees, feed, and care for their young. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon is free for rest or a short community or nature walk.
Day 3: Mount Nyiragongo Hike
After breakfast, drive to the hiking starting point and meet your ranger guide. Porters will help carry supplies. Begin the hike up Mount Nyiragongo with lunch served along the way. By evening, reach the summit where you will spend the night. From the top, you can safely see the lava lake inside the crater. Dinner and overnight stay are at the summit shelters.
Day 4: Descend and Drive Back to Kigali
Wake up early, have breakfast, and begin the descent from the volcano. At the base, meet your driver guide and drive back to Kigali. Arrive in the evening, check in at the hotel, enjoy dinner, and rest.
Day 5: Departure
After breakfast, depending on your flight time, enjoy a short city visit in Kigali or stop at local craft shops. Your driver guide will transfer you to the airport for your flight home, marking the end of your 5-day gorilla trekking and Mount Nyiragongo hike safari.
