3 Days Congo Gorilla Tour Virunga From Kigali

Overview

Embark on a remarkable 3-day Congo Gorilla tour starting from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. This midrange Gorilla trekking safari offers one of the most affordable experiences in Africa, thanks to Congo’s budget-friendly Gorilla trekking permits. Mountain Gorilla trekking takes place in the renowned Virunga National Park.

Despite Congo’s history of political unrest, the country’s security situation has improved significantly, making Gorilla safaris a viable and safe option. With limited international flights to Congo, most tours conveniently start from Kigali International Airport, which provides daily connections from various destinations.

From Kigali, a professional driver-guide will take you on a scenic road trip, crossing the Goma border into Congo. This 3-day tour is an excellent budget option for adventurous travelers, with Gorilla permits priced at just USD 450, compared to USD 700 in Uganda and USD 1,500 in Rwanda.

Tour Summary

• Activity: Gorilla trekking in Congo’s Virunga National Park.
• Start and End: Safari begins and ends in Kigali, Rwanda.
• Inclusions: Border crossing with a Congo tourist visa.
• Minimum Age: Participants must be at least 15 years old.

What You Need to Know

• Congo Tourist Visa: A visa is required, and we assist with the application process.
• Packing: Ensure you have the appropriate clothing for Gorilla trekking.
• Year-Round Tour: This tour is available throughout the year.
• Cost: Includes the price of the Gorilla trekking permit.

Itinerary highlights: 3 Days Congo Gorilla Tour

• Day 1: Arrival, pick up and transfer to Goma in Congo
• Day 2: Gorilla trekking experience in Virunga National Park
• Day 3: Transfer to Kigali/Kigali international Airport for a departure flight.

Day 1: Arrival, Pickup, and Transfer to Goma, Congo

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, your allocated safari guide will be waiting to welcome you and initiate the start of your adventure. The guide will be easy to recognize, holding a placard with your name. If you are already in Kigali, the guide will meet you at your specified location.

After introductions, your journey begins with a scenic drive to Goma, crossing via the Gisenyi border. The drive to the border takes approximately four hours. Once at the border, you will go through clearance procedures before proceeding to Goma. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your lodge, where you will spend the night.

Meal Plan: Dinner

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: Mikeno Lodge
• Mid-range: Lake Kivu Lodge

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Virunga National Park

On day 2 of your 3-Day Congo Gorilla Tour, prepare for an early start with breakfast before embarking on your Gorilla trekking adventure in Virunga National Park. The trek begins at a location named Bukima. Be sure to carry packed food, plenty of water, and your camera equipment for the journey.

 

Upon entering the forest, you will be guided by park rangers who will lead you through the dense forest in search of a specific Mountain Gorilla family. The duration of the trek ranges from 2 to 8 hours, depending on where the Gorilla family spent the previous night. If the family is farther away, the trek will take longer. Conversely, if closer, the trek will be shorter.

Once you reach the Mountain Gorilla family, you’ll be allowed a maximum of 1 hour to observe their natural behavior, take photographs, and capture memorable moments. After the trek, you’ll return to the starting point, where a drive will take you back to your lodge. You’ll have the chance to refresh, relax, and enjoy dinner at the lodge where you spent the previous night.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Transfer to Kigali/Kigali International Airport for Departure

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, begin your return journey to Kigali. You will cross the border from Goma and continue to Kigali. Your guide will ensure a smooth drop-off at either your residence in Kigali or at Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch