5 Days Rwanda Congo Double Gorilla Trekking Safari 

Tour Overview (Rwanda Congo Double Gorilla Trekking Safari)

The 5-day Rwanda-Congo Double Gorilla Trekking Safari is an extraordinary adventure that begins and ends in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. This unique journey offers travelers the rare opportunity to trek and observe two distinct species of gorillas in their natural bamboo habitats across two neighboring countries. The safari begins with a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s premier gorilla trekking destination. Here, you’ll embark on a guided trek into the misty rainforest to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas, whose striking resemblance to humans, sharing over 99% of our DNA, creates a deeply emotional and unforgettable wildlife experience.

After your thrilling mountain gorilla encounter, the safari continues westward to the Democratic Republic of Congo, crossing via the Cyangugu or Bunagana border to reach the lush and less-explored Kahuzi Biega National Park. Unlike the highland gorillas of Rwanda, this park is famed for its eastern lowland gorillas, the largest of all gorilla subspecies. Trekking through the dense forest to meet these gentle giants is both exhilarating and humbling. This part of the safari not only offers an off-the-beaten-path experience but also a deeper appreciation for the biodiversity of the Congo Basin. Together, these two treks form a powerful double-gorilla experience, perfect for avid primate lovers and adventurous travelers.

Detailed Itinerary: 5 Days Rwanda Congo Double Gorilla Trekking Safari

Day 1: Arrival at Kigali International Airport and transfer to Volcanoes.

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional and friendly driver guide who will be holding a placard with your name. After a brief introduction and warm greetings, the guide will provide you with a detailed briefing about your safari itinerary, highlighting key expectations and safety tips. Once everything is set, you will embark on a scenic drive through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside, heading towards Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival, you will check in at Gorilla Lodge, where you can relax and enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere. Later, enjoy a delicious dinner and settle in for a comfortable overnight stay.

Accommodation; Five volcanoes (Midrange)/ Da Vinci lodge (Budget)

Day 2: Gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park

On this day, you will have a great time meeting with the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park! After a tasty breakfast, your guide will pick you up from the lodge. You will head for a briefing by ranger guides at 7:30 and 8:30 am with a packed lunch. You will start the trek to hunt for the gorillas and after finding them you will spend with them a maximum of 1 hour. This walk can take 4-5 hours depending on where you meet the gorillas. The park is steep, it is a real hike, and being physically fit is recommended. After trekking, you will return to the lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.

Accommodation; Five volcanoes (Midrange)/ Da Vinci lodge (Budget)

Day 3: Head to Bukavu Congo

After enjoying an early breakfast, you will check out of the lodge and begin your scenic transfer to the Democratic Republic of Congo via the Cyangugu border. Though the journey is long, it offers an unforgettable drive through Rwanda’s stunning countryside, with its rolling green hills, terraced farms, and rural villages. Nature lovers will find the landscape truly captivating. Upon reaching the Cyangugu border post, you will complete immigration formalities and proceed toward the Bunagana border crossing into Congo. From there, continue to Bukavu, a charming lakeside town near Kahuzi Biega National Park, where your primate adventure in Congo will begin.

Accommodation: Orchids Safari Club Hotel (Midrange)/ Hotel Begonias (Budget)

Day 4: Eastern Lowland Gorilla Tracking at Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Lowland gorilla trekking at Kahuzi-Biega National Park starts with registration at the park offices. You will get up early and have breakfast before heading for the park offices. After registration, you will be briefed on the rules to follow while tracking lowland gorillas, what to expect, and the history of the park. The park authorities will assign you to one of the four habituated Eastern Lowland Gorilla groups. Expect to spend about 4 hours in the jungle searching for the primates. Once you find them take time to observe as much as you can because you will only have one hour with them. Remember to take as many photos and videos as you can. Upon completion, you will return to the starting point, where you will find the driver waiting to take you to lunch. You will have the afternoon at leisure as you prepare to head back home.

Accommodation: Orchids Safari Club Hotel (Midrange)/ Hotel Begonias (Budget)

Day 5: Head back to Kigali for departure

You should wake up early and have breakfast as you wait for the driver to start the journey to Kigali in Rwanda through the Changungu border. The driver will ensure that the long journey is as memorable as possible by making short stops at key landmarks and attractions along the way.

End of 5 Days Rwanda Congo Double Gorilla Trekking Safari

Inclusions: (Rwanda Congo Double Gorilla Trekking Safari)

•    Transport
•    All transfers
•    Full board meals
•    Accommodation
•    Gorilla permits
•    English speaking guide
•    All activities mentioned above

Exclusions: (Rwanda Congo Double Gorilla Trekking Safari)

• All items that are not mentioned above
• Tips and gratuities
• Visa fees
• Alcoholic drinks
• Air tickets