5 Day Gorilla trekking and Nyiragongo Hike in Congo

This 5 Day Gorilla Trekking and Nyiragongo Hike in Congo combines two of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s most iconic adventures. Experience an unforgettable mountain gorilla trek in Virunga National Park and hike the legendary Mount Nyiragongo, home to the world’s largest active lava lake. The safari offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters, volcanic landscapes, rainforest exploration, and breathtaking scenery in one of Africa’s most adventurous destinations.

Starting and ending in Kigali, Rwanda, this tour is perfect for travellers seeking an extraordinary primate and hiking experience in the heart of the Albertine Rift.

Day 1: Kigali to Goma and Transfer to Virunga National Park

After breakfast, meet your driver-guide and depart Kigali for the Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo border. After immigration formalities, continue to Goma and proceed to Virunga National Park.

Upon arrival, receive a briefing about the upcoming activities and check into your lodge. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Accommodation Options

Budget: Kibumba Tented Camp

Mid-range: Bukima Tented Camp

Luxury: Mikeno Lodge

Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for registration and a briefing by park rangers.

Begin your trek through the forests of Virunga National Park in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. The trek may take between one and five hours depending on the location of the gorillas.

Once the gorillas are located, spend one magical hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watch silverbacks oversee their families, mothers care for their infants, and playful juveniles interact within the group.

After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent enjoying the lodge surroundings or participating in an optional nature walk.

Accommodation

As above

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Nature Experience and Transfer to Nyiragongo Trailhead Area

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in the Virunga region. You may take part in optional activities around the park or simply enjoy the scenery and wildlife around the lodge.

After lunch, transfer to the Nyiragongo hiking area and attend a briefing about the volcano hike. Meet the ranger team and prepare your equipment for the following day’s ascent.

Spend the evening resting before the adventure ahead.

Accommodation Options

Budget: Kibumba Tented Camp

Mid-range: Bukima Tented Camp

Luxury: Mikeno Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Hike Mount Nyiragongo

After an early breakfast, transfer to Kibati Ranger Post for registration and a briefing.

Begin the hike up Mount Nyiragongo through forests, lava fields, and volcanic terrain. The climb typically takes between five and seven hours depending on pace and weather conditions.

As you ascend, enjoy spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains, Lake Kivu, and the surrounding countryside. Several rest stops allow time for photographs and relaxation.

Upon reaching the summit at 3,470 metres, settle into the summit cabins before heading to the crater rim. Witness the extraordinary lava lake glowing beneath you as darkness falls. This is one of Africa’s most remarkable natural spectacles.

Spend the night at the Nyiragongo Summit Shelters.

Accommodation

Nyiragongo Summit Shelters

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Descend Nyiragongo and Return to Kigali

Wake up early to enjoy sunrise views over the volcano, Lake Kivu, and the Virunga mountain range.

After breakfast, begin the descent back to Kibati Ranger Post. The descent normally takes between three and five hours.

Upon arrival, meet your driver and begin the journey back to Kigali via Goma. After completing border formalities, continue to Kigali where you will be dropped off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Optional Activities

Virunga National Park

• Chimpanzee habituation experience
• Guided forest nature walks
• Bird watching excursions
• Wildlife photography tours
• Community cultural visits
• Conservation experience with park rangers

Goma and Lake Kivu

• Lake Kivu boat cruise
• Sunset photography excursion
• Local market visit
• Coffee plantation experience
• Cultural village visits

Rwanda Extensions

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Golden monkey tracking
• Kigali city tour
• Akagera National Park safari
• Nyungwe Forest chimpanzee tracking
• Lake Kivu relaxation tour