Congo is a true wilderness paradise, home to some of the most unique primate encounters and a dazzling array of bird species. Wanderwort Safaris invites you on the 10 Days Congo Gorillas and Birding Safari, an extraordinary journey that blends thrilling gorilla treks with immersive birding experiences across lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and tranquil lakes. Designed with comfort and elegance in mind, this safari combines close encounters with Congo’s famed mountain and lowland gorillas with expertly guided birding expeditions. Each day brings adventure in the wild, and every evening offers the luxury of fine dining and relaxation at carefully selected lodges and hotels.
Day 1: Arrival in Kinshasa
Upon arrival at N’djili International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your luxury hotel in Kinshasa. Spend the day at leisure to rest and refresh after your journey. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant.
Accommodation: Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel, Hotel Memling, Beatrice Hotel
Meals: (Dinner)
Day 2: Kinshasa Cultural and Birding Tour
Begin your adventure with a guided city and birding tour. Visit the National Museum, the Académie des Beaux-Arts, and local craft markets before heading out to the Congo River banks for your first birding excursion. Spot kingfishers, herons, and other riverine bird species before returning to your hotel.
Accommodation: Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel, Hotel Memling, Beatrice Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: Flight to Goma – Virunga National Park
Fly from Kinshasa to Goma, where you will be welcomed and transferred to Virunga National Park. Settle into your luxury lodge nestled in the park and spend the afternoon at leisure. In the evening, enjoy dinner with panoramic views of the forest.
Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Tchegera Island Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga
After an early breakfast, set off for a thrilling trek to see the endangered mountain gorillas of Virunga. Spend an hour observing their fascinating behavior before returning to your lodge for lunch. The afternoon can be spent birdwatching along the lodge trails with opportunities to spot turacos, sunbirds, and hornbills.
Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Tchegera Island Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Birding and Nature Walks in Virunga
Join your expert birding guide for a day exploring Virunga’s diverse avifauna. Look out for Albertine Rift endemics such as the Rwenzori batis, handsome francolin, and strange weaver. In the afternoon, enjoy a forest walk and relax at the lodge.
Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge, Bukima Tented Camp, Tchegera Island Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Nyiragongo Volcano Hike
Today you embark on an unforgettable adventure to climb Nyiragongo Volcano. The trek takes 5 to 6 hours, leading you to the summit where you will witness the world’s largest lava lake. Spend the night in upgraded summit shelters and enjoy views of the fiery crater.
Accommodation: Nyiragongo Summit Shelters
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Descent from Nyiragongo – Transfer to Lake Kivu
Descend from Nyiragongo in the morning and transfer to your luxury lakeside hotel by Lake Kivu. Spend the afternoon relaxing after your climb, with options for swimming or a sunset boat cruise. Birders can enjoy spotting African fish eagles and pied kingfishers along the lake.
Accommodation: Kivu Serena Hotel, Lac Kivu Lodge, Ihusi Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Road Transfer to Kahuzi-Biega National Park
After breakfast, drive to Kahuzi-Biega National Park, home to Eastern lowland gorillas and a rich bird population. Check in at your lodge and take a guided birding walk, spotting species such as the yellow-crested helmet-shrike and Congo peafowl.
Accommodation: Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Lodge Coco Kivu
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9: Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking and Birding
Set out early for your Eastern lowland gorilla trek, a rare and unforgettable encounter. After your time with the gorillas, continue with guided birding in the park, where forest specials like the Shelley’s crimsonwing and Rwenzori turaco may be seen. Return to your lodge for relaxation and a farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge Bukavu, Lodge Coco Kivu
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10: Return to Goma – Departure
After breakfast, transfer back to Goma for your international departure. This marks the end of your 10 Days Congo Gorillas and Birding Safari 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.