6-Day Virunga Double Trekking & Nyiragongo Hike Safari – Experience an expertly organized adventure suitable for all visitors, especially those seeking thrilling experiences. Explore Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park located in the eastern part of D.R. Congo, established in 1925 as the continent’s first protected wildlife area.
Your 6-day Virunga double trekking & Nyiragongo hike includes mountain gorilla trekking and a hike up Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Please plan your arrival in Goma for either Mondays or Wednesdays at 11 am, as these are the only days when hikes take place. Guests are guaranteed to have one of Africa’s best wildlife adventures with gorilla trekking and hiking Nyiragongo.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Virunga National Park
Early in the morning, a friendly and experienced driver guide will pick you up from your agreed pick-up point in Kigali. After introductions, you will receive a briefing on your six days in Virunga National Park, detailing the activities including gorilla trekking and a hike to the lava lake atop Mount Nyiragongo. Embark on a 4-hour journey across the border to Goma, Congo.
Arrive in the early afternoon for check-in, followed by a delicious lunch with a refreshing drink. Relax in your hotel room until evening, when dinner will be served. Rest well and prepare for the exciting gorilla trekking adventure tomorrow.
Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
Rise early for a hearty breakfast before heading to Bukima ranger post. Here, guests will receive a briefing on the mountain gorilla trekking activity and safety guidelines. Trek through the forest in search of your assigned gorilla family.
Mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park typically lasts 2 to 4 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Spend an hour with the gorilla family once located, then return to your lodge for a late lunch. Capture memories with photos of these magnificent creatures, which will remain vivid in your mind.
The afternoon is free for rest, relaxation, or socializing with friends and family. Enjoy a luxurious dinner and prepare for another thrilling gorilla trekking expedition tomorrow.
Day 3: Second Mountain Gorilla Trekking
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters with your driver guide for another gorilla trekking experience. Follow the same guidelines, ensuring no littering, maintaining a safe distance from gorillas, and refraining from flash photography, which can disturb the gorillas.
Enjoy the exhilarating experience of meeting gorillas once again. Return to your lodge for a delicious lunch and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 4: Relaxation or Visit to Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage
Today is dedicated to relaxation and preparation for the Nyiragongo summit hike. In the afternoon, visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage, where orphaned baby gorillas are cared for after being rescued from poachers. Learn about gorillas and conservation efforts aimed at protecting these endangered species.
Return to your accommodation for dinner and relax in anticipation of tomorrow’s hike.
Day 5: Mount Nyiragongo Hike
After an early breakfast, check out of your lodge and travel to Kibati Ranger Post to join other guests for the Mount Nyiragongo hike. Receive a briefing before embarking on the hike to the world’s largest active lava lake at Nyiragongo’s summit. This rare opportunity allows visitors to approach an active boiling lava lake.
Witness the stunning African sunset and the fiery glow from the lake spreading across the Virunga skies. The hike typically lasts 6-8 hours, including stops for rest and meals. Enjoy the evening soaking in the summit’s magnificent atmosphere, surrounded by the Congo Forest’s beauty, bird songs, and great company.
Day 6: Descend Mount Nyiragongo and Departure
Wake early to catch the sunrise over Nyiragongo and Virunga National Park. Enjoy a simple breakfast at your camp before beginning the descent back to the base by mid-morning. Join the Virunga security team for your transfer to Goma before continuing your journey back to Kigali.
If time permits, take a brief city tour of Kigali, visiting sites such as Kimironko Market, the Presidential Palace Museum, and the Kigali Genocide Memorial Grounds. Head to the airport for your departure flight or drop-off at your hotel, marking the end of your exhilarating 6-Day Double Gorilla Trekking & Nyiragongo Hike.
