Day 1: Arrival in Kigali International Airport and Transfer to Mikeno Lodge in Virunga National Park, Congo
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by our experienced driver-guide who will accompany you to Mikeno Lodge in Virunga National Park, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The scenic drive, lasting approximately 3-4 hours without en-route stopovers, will take you through breathtaking landscapes adorned with unique natural beauty and local communities.
Once you arrive at Virunga National Park, you will proceed to check in at Mikeno Lodge. You’ll have the opportunity to relax, enjoy dinner, and spend the night at the lodge.
Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge (Luxury/Upmarket), Bukima Tented Camp (Mid-Range), Nyiragongo Volcano Summit Shelters (Budget)
Day 2: Early Morning Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
After a leisurely breakfast, you will be driven to the Bukima Park Station in Virunga National Park. Trekkers typically assemble here at 7:00 am, where you will be assigned to a gorilla group and briefed on how to conduct yourself during your time with the gorillas. After the briefing, you will proceed to the designated starting point for the gorilla trek.
The duration of the trek can vary depending on the gorillas’ location and weather conditions. Meeting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is an incredible and unique experience. You will be granted one hour to observe and photograph these magnificent apes. After this magical hour, you will return to the trekking base and then back to your lodge for a late lunch and relaxation.
Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge (Luxury/Upmarket), Bukima Tented Camp (Mid-Range), Nyiragongo Volcano Summit Shelters (Budget)
Day 3: Early Morning Nyiragongo Volcano Hike
Following breakfast, you will embark on a 30-kilometer transfer from Mikeno Lodge to Kibat Patrol Post at Nyiragongo Volcano. Upon arrival at the trailhead, park rangers will lead you, along with your porters, on a hike to the summit of Nyiragongo Volcano.
The Nyiragongo Volcano hike typically takes 4-6 hours to reach the summit of the world’s most active volcano. The trail to the summit is relatively manageable but can be strenuous, especially in hot and challenging conditions. Along the trail, you may have the opportunity to spot rare bird species and small mammals. Upon reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the lava lakes. You’ll spend the night in tents on the rim of the giant crater, high above the active lava lake.
Day 4: Descend from Nyiragongo Volcano and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda
After an early morning breakfast, you will begin your descent from the summit of Nyiragongo at 7:00 am. The descent will lead you back to Kibat Patrol Post. Upon arrival, you will have lunch and relax before embarking on a 162-kilometer transfer from Virunga to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
The transfer journey will take you through picturesque countryside landscapes, rural settings, and local communities as you make your way to Volcanoes National Park. Once you arrive in the park, you will head to your reserved lodge to check in, have dinner, and spend the night.
Accommodations: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (Upmarket/Luxury), Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Standard/Mid-Range), Muhabura Hotel (Budget)
Day 5: Mountain Gorilla Trekking and Evening Cultural Encounter
In the morning, after a hearty breakfast, you will be driven to the park headquarters for a briefing from 7:30 am to 8:00 am regarding gorilla trekking etiquette in Volcanoes Park. At the park headquarters, you will join other trekkers and be divided into groups of eight individuals allowed to trek one habituated mountain gorilla group.
Following the briefing, a ranger guide will lead you through the lush jungle in search of mountain gorillas. This activity can last between 2-8 hours and requires physical fitness, as it involves hiking hills and sloping valleys. The experience is rewarding when you finally come face to face with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. You will have one hour to observe, photograph, and admire the gorillas. During this time, maintain a distance of 7 meters and turn off your camera flash.
After the trek, return to the starting point and transfer to your lodge for a late lunch and relaxation. In the evening, enjoy a cultural encounter with local communities around Volcanoes National Park. This experience offers a rare opportunity to interact with locals, immerse yourself in their culture and traditions, and gain insight into their way of life.
Accommodations: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (Upmarket/Luxury), Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Standard/Mid-Range), Muhabura Hotel (Budget)
Day 6: Visit to Dian Fossey Tomb and Transfer to Kigali for City Tour
Start your day with an early morning visit to the Dian Fossey Tomb. This trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the Karisoke Research Centre, visit the house where the renowned American researcher Dian Fossey was tragically killed, and learn about mountain gorilla conservation and protection efforts.
After your visit, embark on a transfer drive to Kigali. Upon arrival in the city, your driver-guide will take you to the Gisozi Genocide Memorial Center. Here, you will have the chance to learn about the comprehensive history of Rwanda, including the events of the 1994 genocide. The center provides personal accounts and a deep understanding of this tragic period.
Following your visit to the memorial center, your driver-guide will drive
you to your Kigali lodge or Kanombe Airport for your scheduled departure flight.
Price Includes:
– Gorilla permits
– Warm lunches on transfer days and water in the car
– Professional guide/driver
– Ground transportation in a 4X4 safari car
– Accommodation for 2 nights
– Meals at the lodges (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Price Excludes:
– Airfare and visa fees
– Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
– Extra activities not included in the itinerary
– Laundry expenses
– Personal items and expenses
If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to contact us.
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Wild Terrain Africa, a Uganda-based safari operator, is dedicated to crafting distinctive gorilla trekking expeditions and luxury African tours in Uganda and the broader East African region that leave a lasting impact on hearts and minds. Learn more about us and our offerings.
