Safari Overview
Join us on a thrilling 4 Days Congo Gorillas Tour through the heart of Africa. You’ll encounter gorillas both lowland and mountain, conquer an active volcano, and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This adventure promises unforgettable memories and awe-inspiring moments – a Congo Gorilla Tour like no other!
Safari Summary
- Day 1: Arrival and Transfer Virunga National
- Day 2: Gorilla Trekking
- Day 3: Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trek
- Day 4: Volcanic Adventure and Departure
Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer Virunga National Park
Your 4 days Congo Gorillas Tour kicks off as you land at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by your experienced tour guide, who will accompany you on this adventure. You’ll embark on a scenic drive from the airport to Goma, a city bordering Rwanda and Congo.
Crossing into Congo signifies the start of your journey. Your guide will manage border formalities smoothly. Continuing, you’ll reach Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity and mountain gorillas. Check-in your accommodation within the park and relax.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking
Your second day starts with a hearty breakfast before you meet your guide and head to the park headquarters. Here, you’ll receive a briefing on gorilla trekking, including important conservation information and guidelines.
With your guide’s expertise, you’ll begin your gorilla trekking adventure, venturing into the dense forests of Virunga National Park. Your goal is to locate a gorilla family and spend up to an hour observing them in their natural habitat, capturing photos and memories. After this incredible encounter, return to your accommodation for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, join a nature walk to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna, guided by your expert. As the day concludes, return to your lodge for dinner and a restful overnight stay.
Day 3: Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trek
Leaving Virunga behind, you’ll drive to Bukavu, a journey offering diverse landscapes. In Bukavu, you’ll explore Kahuzi-Biega National Park, home to eastern lowland gorillas. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a crucial sanctuary for the critically endangered eastern lowland gorilla species. After a briefing, your expert guides will lead you on a trek to encounter these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat, allowing up to an hour for observation and photography. This is a unique opportunity to observe their behaviors, social dynamics, and natural habitat.
Having experienced this unique gorilla encounter, you’ll return to your Bukavu accommodation for dinner and a restful night.
Day 4: Volcanic Adventure and Departure
After breakfast in Bukavu, prepare for an unforgettable adventure. You’ll hike to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano within Virunga National Park. The trek offers stunning transitions from lush forests to the otherworldly landscapes of the volcano’s peak. At the summit, you’ll witness the mesmerizing lava lake within the crater, a unique and captivating sight. Spend the night in Nyiragongo’s summit shelters, enjoying the breathtaking views of the lava lake’s fiery glow.
The next morning, descend to the base camp and begin your journey back to Kigali. Reflect on your incredible experiences as you travel. Upon your return to Kigali, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure.
Important Notes:
– Congo Gorilla trekking permits cost USD 400 per person per trek. You will need to obtain the permits in advance, which can be purchased through Laba Africa.
– The best time to visit Congo for gorilla trekking is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During this time, the trails are less muddy making it easier to trek through the forest to find the gorillas.
– It’s essential to be fairly physically fit and have suitable trekking gear for the expedition. Pack essentials like water, snacks, hiking shoes, and a rain jacket. A small fee can be paid to porters to help you carry luggage during the trek hence reducing the burden.
