The 3-day Virunga gorilla safari is a short tour in eastern Congo that guarantees experiences of a lifetime. This remarkable trip takes you into the jungles of Virunga National Park to see mountain gorillas. Virunga National Park is the largest of the three Virunga Conservation Areas, covering up to 7,800 sq. km and home to a total of 8 gorilla families. Gorilla trekking is the primary adventure on this trip, with only one habituated group of mountain gorillas visited.
Detailed Tour
Day 1: Kigali, Virunga National Park
Pick up at the hotel and receive a briefing about your border-crossing trip. Begin your drive to the lodge/hotel in D.R. Congo. Before exiting Rwanda, enjoy a short city excursion (2 hours) in Kigali, exploring its Gisozi Genocide Memorial site, craft markets, and more. En route, experience the beauty of Rwanda’s countryside and that of Congo as you cross the border. The rest of the evening will be for relaxation at the pre-booked accommodation.
Day 2: Virunga Gorillas, D.R. Congo
Enjoy a well-prepared cup of tea or coffee, then transfer to Bukima Ranger Post for a briefing about the rules for gorilla trekking. Virunga National Park has 8 gorilla families that have undergone full habituation, and the park officials will allocate one for you to visit as per this package. The park’s gorilla group families include Mapuwa, Bageni, Humba, Lulengo, Kabirizi, Rugendo, and Munyaga.
Begin your search for gorillas at 8:00 am with the guidance of an experienced park guide. The trek will last about 2-6 hours, including 1 hour of a close encounter with the gorillas. Afterward, return to the lodge. In the evening, you may consider exploring more about the Senkwekwe Center.
Day 3: Virunga – Kigali
Transfer back to Kigali after enjoying a hearty breakfast in the morning. Take in the picturesque landscapes of Congo and Rwanda along the way. Arrive early, enjoy lunch, and continue to Kigali Airport for departure or transfer to your next safari destination.
