The Democratic Republic of Congo remains one of Africa’s most pristine and undiscovered safari destinations, offering a rare combination of mountain gorilla encounters, Eastern lowland gorilla treks, active volcano hikes, and serene lakeside escapes. Wanderwort Safaris invites you to embark on the 13 Days Ultimate Congo Safari Experience, a carefully curated journey that blends adventure with luxury. Each day is designed to immerse you in the beauty of Congo’s landscapes and wildlife, while ensuring you relax in comfort at some of the finest lodges and hotels in the region.
Day 1: Arrival in Kinshasa
On arrival at N’djili International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your luxury hotel in Kinshasa. Spend the afternoon at leisure, either resting after your flight or exploring the city’s lively atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel restaurant.
Accommodation: Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel, Hotel Memling, Beatrice Hotel
Meals: (Dinner)
Day 2: Kinshasa City Tour and River Cruise
After breakfast, embark on a guided city tour of Kinshasa. Highlights include the Académie des Beaux-Arts, the National Museum, and craft markets. In the afternoon, relax with a private boat cruise along the Congo River, complete with drinks and snacks. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation: Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel, Hotel Memling, Beatrice Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: Flight to Goma – Virunga National Park
Board a scheduled flight to Goma, where you will be received and transferred to Virunga National Park. Settle into your lodge and take in panoramic forest views. The rest of the day is free for relaxation before your gorilla adventure begins.
Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge, Tchegera Island Camp, Bukima Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga
Set off early for your mountain gorilla trek. Accompanied by experienced trackers, you will journey through the dense forest until you encounter a gorilla family. Spend an awe-inspiring hour observing their behavior before returning to your lodge for relaxation and a fine dinner.
Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge, Tchegera Island Camp, Bukima Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking and Forest Walks
This morning, join researchers for a chimpanzee tracking experience. Learn about their habits and observe them in their natural forest environment. Later, enjoy guided walks to discover birdlife, monkeys, and other small forest dwellers.
Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge, Tchegera Island Camp, Bukima Tented Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Nyiragongo Volcano Hike
After an early breakfast, transfer to the trailhead of Mount Nyiragongo for your guided trek. Ascend the volcano in about 5 to 6 hours and reach the summit, home to the world’s largest lava lake. Spend the night in upgraded summit shelters, watching the lava glow under the night sky.
Accommodation: Nyiragongo Summit Shelters
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Descent from Nyiragongo – Goma Transfer
Descend from the volcano and return to Goma. The afternoon is for relaxation at your lakeside hotel. Enjoy a refreshing swim or simply unwind with views of Lake Kivu.
Accommodation: Kivu Serena Hotel, Lac Kivu Lodge, Ihusi Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Lake Kivu Exploration
Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on Lake Kivu, visiting nearby islands and fishing villages. The peaceful waters and surrounding landscapes make this a perfect day to slow down and take in the scenery. In the evening, enjoy a lakeside dinner.
Accommodation: Kivu Serena Hotel, Lac Kivu Lodge, Ihusi Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9: Transfer to Kahuzi-Biega National Park
This morning, embark on a scenic road transfer to Kahuzi-Biega National Park, known for its Eastern lowland gorillas. Check in at your luxury lodge and take an afternoon guided walk to acclimate to the lush surroundings.
Accommodation: Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Lodge Coco Kivu
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10: Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking
Head out early for your Eastern lowland gorilla trek. These gorillas are larger and distinct from the mountain gorillas, offering a new perspective on primate encounters. After your trek, return to your lodge to relax.
Accommodation: Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Lodge Coco Kivu
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 11: Nature Walks and Waterfall Visits
Explore Kahuzi-Biega further with a visit to the Tshibati waterfalls. Along the trails, spot monkeys, forest antelopes, and bird species. Return to your lodge for an evening of relaxation and fine dining.
Accommodation: Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Lodge Coco Kivu
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 12: Return to Goma – Cultural Experiences
Drive back to Goma and enjoy an afternoon cultural tour. Visit local art galleries, traditional craft markets, and community projects. In the evening, indulge in a farewell dinner with live cultural performances.
Accommodation: Kivu Serena Hotel, Lac Kivu Lodge, Ihusi Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 13: Departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Goma Airport for your flight back home. This marks the end of your 13 Days Ultimate Congo Safari Experience with Wanderwort Safaris.
Meals: (Breakfast)
- Airport Transfers.
- 2 Gorilla Permits per person.
- Accommodation and Meals as per the itinerary.
- Nyiragongo Volcano Hike.
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Bottled Water in the car.
- Tour Guide Allowances.
- Wildlife Game Drives.
The tour cost excludes; International air fare, Visa fees, personal travel insurance, personal shopping bills, tips to local guides, souvenirs, alcoholic drinks and items not listed as included in the cost.