7-Day Rwanda & Congo Safari | Gorillas, Volcanoes & Culture

Experience the ultimate East-African adventure, combining Rwanda’s luxuriant landscapes with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s volcanic majesty. This expertly curated 7-day safari features mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee encounters, a thrilling Nyiragongo hike, and serene moments on Lake Kivu ensuring memories that last a lifetime.

Safari Highlights

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park: Track one of 12 habituated gorilla families, from the famous Susa to the majestic Karisimbi.
Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk in Nyungwe: Observe chimps in their natural habitat, then stroll 70 m above the rainforest on a suspended bridge.
Lake Kivu Leisure: Unwind beside Rwanda’s largest lake with optional water sports and local coffee tours.
Mount Nyiragongo Hike: Conquer Africa’s most active lava lake, witnessing glowing magma at the crater rim.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Volcanoes NP

Firstly, upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, meet your expert guide from Primate Holidays. Then, enjoy scenic drives through rolling green hills to Volcanoes National Park. Finally, settle into your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking

After breakfast, receive a comprehensive briefing at the park headquarters. Next, embark on a trek (30 minutes to 6 hours) to find your allocated gorilla family. Once found, spend a full hour observing and photographing these gentle giants. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’wacu Cultural Village to enjoy authentic songs, dances, and local conversations.

Day 3: Drive to Nyungwe NP

Early breakfast precedes departure for Nyungwe National Park. En route, explore the historic Nyanza King’s Palace and pay respects at the Murambi Genocide Memorial. In the evening, arrive at your Nyungwe lodge for dinner and rest.

Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking & Canopy Walk

Begin with a ranger-led briefing, then trek to spot chimpanzees and other primates. Afterwards, return for lunch at your lodge. In the afternoon, experience Nyungwe’s spectacular canopy walk 160 m long and 70 m high offering panoramic views of verdant forests and wildlife.

Day 5: Transfer to Lake Kivu

Following breakfast, journey to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu. Here, choose from swimming, canoeing, windsurfing, or a fascinating coffee plantation tour. Ultimately, enjoy sunset views over the lake before dinner and overnight at a lakeside lodge.

Day 6: Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

After an early breakfast, drive to Kibati Ranger Post and receive a hike briefing. Then, ascend Mount Nyiragongo (5–6 hours) to witness the mesmerizing crater lava lake. Finally, spend the night at the volcano campsite beneath a starlit sky.

Day 7: Descent & Departure

Begin with breakfast at the crater rim before descending back to Kibati. Afterwards, cross the border at Goma and return to Kigali. Finally, enjoy a farewell lunch before your drop-off at Kigali airport or hotel.