Places You’ll Visit
Safari Overview
Day 1: Pick up from Goma International Airport
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
Day 3:Second Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
Day 4: Visit the orphanage gorillas in Virunga National Park
Day 5: Climb Nyiragongo Volcano
Day 6: Descend Nyiragongo Volcano
Day 7: Relax at Tchegera Island
Day 8: Nature walk on the Island
Day 9: Transfer to Idjwi Island for Community visit.
Day 10: Transfer to Kahuzi Biega National Park
Day 11: Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park
Day 12: Visit the Water falls & Chimpanzee Feeding in Lwiro Sanctuary Centre
Day13: Gorilla Habituation in Kahuzi Biega National Park
Day 14: Bukavu City Tour & Transfer to Goma City
Day 15: Goma City Tour & Transfer to Goma International Airport.
Itinerary in Detail
Pick Up from Goma International Airport
Arrival at Goma International Airport where you are welcomed by a professional safari guide who takes you through precise briefing on the 15-days Congo Gorilla Trekking Tour through the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. After completing immigration formal documentation, you shall transfer to your hotel in Goma then have Dinner and Overnight.
Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
After early breakfast, transfer to Virunga National Park and on reaching here, go through short briefing by park rangers then transfer to trek through dense tropical forests in search of one of the park's habituated mountain gorilla families. The trek may take between 2 and 6 hours depending on the location of the gorillas and once these are found, an hour is allowed in their presence observing them. On meeting them, you shall watch the forecast their behavior, social interactions and playfulness. After the adventure, return to your lodge for relaxation.
Second Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
Breakfast then embark on another Day in the presence of the Gorillas. You shall trek another habituated gorilla family within Virunga National Park and learn about their unique characteristics making every trek completely different. You shall spend another magical hour with these gentle giants while your ranger shares fascinating information about their ecology, behavior and conservation. You shall return to the lodge in the afternoon for relaxation.
Visit the Gorilla Orphanage in Virunga National Park
Enjoy breakfast then proceed to visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage Center, the world's only sanctuary dedicated to orphaned mountain gorillas. Learn about the inspiring conservation work carried out by dedicated caregivers who rehabilitate orphaned gorillas rescued from illegal wildlife trade and conflict. Meet some of the orphaned gorillas and gain deeper insight into conservation initiatives protecting one of the world's most endangered primates. Spend the remaining part of the relaxing at your lodge.
Climb Mount Nyiragongo
Following breakfast, begin the challenging ascent of Mount Nyiragongo, one of Africa's most active volcanoes and home to the world's largest permanent lava lake.
The hike takes approximately 5–7 hours through changing vegetation zones, from lush forests to volcanic rock fields. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views over Lake Kivu and surrounding mountains.
Arrive at the summit in the late afternoon and spend the night in mountain shelters while witnessing the spectacular glowing lava lake after sunset.
Descend Mount Nyiragongo
Wake early to enjoy sunrise views over the volcano before descending back to the park headquarters. The descent takes approximately 3–4 hours.
Upon arrival, transfer back to your lodge in Goma for a well-deserved afternoon of rest.
Relax at Tchegera Island
After breakfast, take a scenic boat ride across Lake Kivu to the beautiful Tchegera Island.
Spend the day relaxing on sandy beaches, swimming, kayaking, or simply enjoying panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Nature Walk on Tchegera Island
Enjoy a leisurely guided nature walk exploring the island's birdlife, native vegetation, and scenic viewpoints. The island offers excellent opportunities for photography, birdwatching, and peaceful relaxation.
The afternoon is free for optional water activities or simply unwinding by the lakeshore.
Transfer to Idjwi Island for Community Visit
Depart by boat to Idjwi Island, the second-largest inland island in Africa.
Visit traditional villages where you'll experience authentic Congolese culture through community interactions, local farming practices, traditional crafts, music, and dance performances. This cultural encounter offers valuable insight into the island's peaceful lifestyle.
Transfer to Kahuzi-Biega National Park
After breakfast, travel to Kahuzi-Biega National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its eastern lowland gorillas.
Enjoy scenic drives through rural villages and lush highland landscapes before arriving at your lodge near the park.
Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Today, embark on a memorable trek to see the rare eastern lowland gorillas. After a ranger briefing, hike through dense rainforest to locate one of the habituated gorilla families.
Spend one magical hour observing these impressive primates in their natural habitat before returning to your lodge.
Waterfalls Visit & Chimpanzee Feeding at Lwiro Sanctuary
Visit the beautiful waterfalls near Lwiro Primates Rehabilitation Center before touring the sanctuary.
Learn about the rehabilitation of rescued chimpanzees and monkeys and observe feeding sessions while conservation experts explain the sanctuary's rescue and education programs. Return to your lodge in the evening.
Gorilla Habituation Experience in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Spend an extraordinary day participating in a gorilla habituation experience alongside researchers and park rangers. Unlike standard trekking, this activity allows extended time observing gorillas as they gradually become accustomed to human presence.
Learn about scientific research, gorilla behavior, conservation techniques, and monitoring efforts. Return to your lodge after this unique conservation experience.
Bukavu City Tour & Transfer to Goma
After breakfast, explore Bukavu, visiting local markets, colonial architecture, viewpoints overlooking Lake Kivu, and cultural landmarks.
Later, drive back to Goma, enjoying beautiful scenery along the shores of Lake Kivu.
Goma City Tour & Departure
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a guided tour of Goma, visiting local markets, artisan shops, and viewpoints over Lake Kivu. You may also see areas affected by past volcanic eruptions and learn about the city's resilience and history.
At the appropriate time, your guide will transfer you to Goma International Airport for your departure flight, bringing your unforgettable 15-day Congo safari to a close.
What’s Included & Excluded
Complete transparency with no hidden costs on your RwaTrek safari.
Included in Your Trip
- All ground transfers in private 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking licensed driver-guide
- Gorilla / Primate tracking permits as specified in the itinerary
- All national park entrance fees and government conservation levies
- Full board accommodation during the safari
- Bottled mineral drinking water in the vehicle during game drives
- Emergency medical evacuation cover (AMREF Flying Doctors)
Not Included
- International flight tickets and departure airport taxes
- Entry tourist visa fees (Rwanda, Uganda, or East Africa Tourist Visa)
- Personal travel, baggage, and medical insurance
- Discretionary tips and gratuities for guides, trackers, and lodge staff
- Alcoholic beverages, premium spirits, and personal laundry services
- Optional activities and personal souvenir purchases
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