The 6-Day Virunga Double Trekking and Nyiragongo Hike Safari is a well-organized adventure designed for travelers who want close wildlife encounters and a challenging hike. This safari takes place in Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park, located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park was established in 1925 and remains one of the most important conservation areas in Africa.
This safari combines two mountain gorilla trekking experiences with a hike to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The highlight of the hike is the lava lake at the summit, which offers a rare view of flowing lava inside a crater. For this safari, guests are advised to plan their arrival in Goma on either Monday or Wednesday at around 11:00 am, as these are the official hiking days.
The safari starts and ends in Kigali, making it convenient for international travelers. It is suitable for visitors with a reasonable fitness level and a strong interest in wildlife and nature.
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Virunga National Park
Early in the morning, your driver guide will pick you up from your hotel or agreed meeting point in Kigali. After introductions, you will receive a clear briefing about the six days in Virunga National Park, including gorilla trekking rules and details about the Nyiragongo hike.
You will then drive toward the Congo border and continue to Goma. The journey takes about four hours depending on border procedures. On arrival, check in at your lodge or camp near Virunga National Park. Enjoy lunch, relax in your room, and later have dinner as you prepare for the gorilla trekking activity the next day.
Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
After an early breakfast, drive to the Bukima ranger post inside Virunga National Park. Here, park rangers will brief you on mountain gorilla trekking rules and safety guidelines.
You will then enter the forest with an experienced guide to search for your assigned gorilla family. Gorilla trekking in Virunga usually takes between two and four hours, depending on where the gorillas spent the night. Once you find them, you are allowed to spend one hour observing their behavior, movements, and interactions.
After the trek, return to the lodge for a late lunch. The afternoon is free for rest and relaxation. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 3: Second Mountain Gorilla Trekking Experience
Wake up early and enjoy breakfast before heading back to the park headquarters for your second gorilla trekking experience. This second trek allows you to visit a different gorilla family and see new behaviors.
Follow the same rules, including keeping a safe distance, avoiding flash photography, and staying quiet. After spending one hour with the gorillas, return to your lodge for lunch.
The rest of the day is free. You may relax, read, or enjoy the views around the lodge. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Leisure Day and Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage Visit
This day is reserved for rest and preparation for the Nyiragongo hike. In the afternoon, visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage, located inside Virunga National Park.
At the center, learn about rescued orphaned gorillas and conservation work in the region. The visit gives insight into the threats facing gorillas and how conservation teams protect them. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight rest.
Day 5: Mount Nyiragongo Hike
After an early breakfast, check out and drive to the Kibati ranger post, the starting point of the Nyiragongo hike. Rangers will give a detailed briefing before the hike begins.
The hike to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo takes about six to eight hours, including rest stops. The trail passes through forest and rocky terrain. On reaching the summit, you will see the lava lake inside the crater.
Dinner and overnight stay at the summit shelters as you enjoy views of the glowing lava and the surrounding landscape.
Day 6: Descend and Return to Kigali
Wake up early to watch the sunrise from the summit. After a simple breakfast, begin the descent back to the Kibati ranger post. The descent takes about three to four hours.
Meet your driver and transfer back to Goma, then continue to Kigali. If time allows, enjoy a short city visit before being dropped at your hotel or the airport. This marks the end of the 6-Day Virunga Double Trekking and Nyiragongo Hike Safari.
