7 Days Rwanda Uganda and Congo Gorilla Tours Safari

Great Virunga Massif Circuit Safari

Seek inward and decide on taking the first step on the ultimate adventure with our Virunga Massif tour, a 7 Day Rwanda, Uganda and Congo Gorilla Trekking Tour that showcases the breathtaking beauty and rich diversity of this extraordinary region. Spanning 450 km² and bordering the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, northwestern Rwanda, and southwestern Uganda, the Virunga Massif, also known as the Virunga Volcanoes Range, is home to a stunning array of habitats. This exceptional safari combines exhilarating experiences, including a visit to see the playful golden monkeys in Rwanda, trekking the majestic gorillas in Bwindi, and climbing the active Nyiragongo Volcano in Virunga Park. This carefully curated itinerary promises to immerse you in the wealth of adventure and natural wonders that define this captivating region.  Learn more about this Uganda-Rwanda-Congo safari tour now!

7 Days Rwanda, Uganda and Congo Gorilla Trekking and More

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your Amahoro guide, who will assist with your luggage as you embark on your adventure in Rwanda. Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the vibrant city of Kigali, where you’ll catch glimpses of its rich culture and stunning landscapes. After settling into your hotel, enjoy a refreshing overnight stay. The next day, your guide will take you on an enriching city tour, exploring captivating sites like the craft market, Gisozi Genocide Memorial, and Kigali Museum, each revealing the heart and soul of this remarkable city. As you continue your journey, you’ll head towards Ruhengeri, nestled against the majestic Virunga mountain range, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, savoring delicious cuisine and engaging with local communities. This adventure will lead you to the enchanting Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll experience the thrill of tracking golden monkeys and the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. Your days will be filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters and cultural experiences, leaving you with lasting memories of this beautiful region.  Take a view of the best 7 day DRC-Rwanda-Uganda gorilla trekking tour now!

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DAY 1: ARRIVAL AT (KIA) KIGALI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

 

Driving distance:  15 Minutes
Activity: 0
Overnight:

Value: Gloria Hotel | Midrange: Heaven Boutique Hotel | Luxury: Marriot Hotel
Meal Plan: Bed & breakfast

 

DAY 2: PICK-UP FROM KIGALI AND DEPARTURE FOR RUHENGERI

After a hearty breakfast, your guide will warmly greet you at your hotel, setting the tone for an enriching day ahead with a complimentary city tour. Kigali, known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," carries a rich history that began in 1907 with Dr. Richard Kandt, the first colonial resident governor of Rwanda. Nestled among verdant hills, the city brims with life and stories waiting to be discovered. You'll visit captivating sites, from the vibrant craft market to the poignant Gisozi Genocide Memorial and the enlightening Kigali Museum, each stop offering a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of this remarkable city.

Next, you’ll embark on a scenic two-hour drive to Ruhengeri, Rwanda’s second-largest town, where the majestic Virunga mountain range stands as a breathtaking backdrop. Upon arrival at the Red Rocks Intercultural Exchange Centre, you’ll savor a delightful lunch before diving into the vibrant local culture. Engage with the passionate local brew makers and experience the fascinating journey of transforming bananas into a traditional beer. If you’re feeling adventurous, join the women in squeezing the bananas and relish a refreshing glass of juice. Witness the artistry of traditional basket weaving, allowing you to connect with the community on a personal level. After a day filled with meaningful interactions and cultural insights, you’ll return to your hotel for a delicious dinner and a cozy overnight stay, wrapping up a day of memorable experiences.

 
Driving distance:  2 hours
Activities: City tour + Cultural Activities
Overnight:

Value: Amahoro Redrocks Guest House | Midrange: La Palme Hotel | Luxury: Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board

DAY 3: GOLDEN MONKEY TREK + DEPARTURE FOR BWINDI NATIONAL PARK

Today is dedicated to the thrilling experience of Golden Monkey tracking in the enchanting Volcanoes National Park. As you step into the dense bamboo forests, with sunlight filtering through the leaves, anticipation builds for the chance to encounter these captivating primates. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, you’ll venture into the heart of golden monkey territory, where groups of habituated monkeys roam freely, accustomed to the presence of visitors.

This intimate one-hour viewing allows you to witness their playful antics up close. Watch as adult monkeys frolic and feed on bamboo leaves, their vibrant energy lighting up the surroundings. You’ll see mothers tenderly caring for their young, showcasing the strong family bonds that exist within these fascinating creatures. After this incredible encounter, you’ll return to your hotel to refresh and enjoy lunch, savoring the day's excitement before bidding farewell to your hosts. The journey continues as you head to Bwindi National Park, where you'll arrive in the late afternoon, ready for dinner and a cozy overnight stay at your lodge, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable wildlife moments.

 

Driving distance:  2 Hours
Activities: Golden Monkey + Depart For Bwindi Park
Overnight:

Value: Ichumbi Lodge | Midrange: Nkuringo Gorilla Safari Lodge | Luxury: Mahogany Springs Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board

 

DAY 4: UGANDA GORILLA TRACKING IN BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK OR MGAHINGA NATIONAL PARK

Get ready for an exhilarating day as you embark on an unforgettable adventure to encounter the majestic Mountain Gorillas. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a unique sanctuary, home to both Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees—an exceptional claim for any forest in Africa. This rich ecosystem also supports five other primate species, 113 mammal varieties, over 200 butterfly species, and 360 different birds, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

Gorilla Tracking Adventure

While the duration of gorilla tracking can vary significantly, typically ranging from two to nine hours or even longer, each moment spent venturing into the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest brings you closer to the incredible Mountain Gorillas. This journey is not just about the destination; it's an immersive experience filled with the sounds of nature and the thrill of the unknown. As you navigate through steep, muddy trails, often accompanied by the refreshing patter of rain, your senses will heighten with every step, fueled by the excitement of the sighting ahead. The anticipation of finally encountering these gentle giants makes the effort truly worthwhile.

Before setting off, you'll participate in an essential briefing, where expert guides will share vital information on how to interact respectfully with the gorillas, ensuring both your safety and that of these magnificent animals. This moment represents a unique opportunity to connect intimately with Uganda's iconic "Gorillas in the Mist," creating memories that will last a lifetime. After what promises to be an awe-inspiring morning, you'll return to your hotel to enjoy a well-deserved lunch, replenishing your energy for the next adventure. In the afternoon, take part in a culturally enriching Batwa (Pygmies) community walk, where you’ll learn about the traditions and lifestyles of this indigenous group. As the day draws to a close, savor a delicious dinner, reflecting on the day's remarkable encounters, and unwind in the comfort of your lodge, ready to dream about the incredible experiences yet to come.

 

Driving distance: Depends on the family you trek to
Activities: Gorilla tracking + Batwa Community Visit (Optional)

Overnight:

Value: Ichumbi Lodge | Midrange: Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge | Luxury: Mahogany Springs Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast

 

DAY 5: DEPARTURE FOR FOR GOMA (EASTERN SIDE OF DR CONGO)

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you'll leave your host and set off on your journey to Channika Border. After clearing customs, you’ll continue on to Goma, but not before stopping to admire the breathtaking Twin Lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo. Nestled at the foot of Mount Muhabura and close to the Ugandan border, these stunning lakes are framed by steep hills and the majestic Virunga volcanic mountains. Once considered hidden gems, Bulera and Ruhondo have become essential stops for travelers, showcasing their vibrant blue waters and spectacular backdrops of cascading waterfalls.

A boat ride to one of the islands offers a unique perspective of this picturesque landscape and an excellent opportunity for capturing stunning photographs. As you glide across the tranquil waters, take in the beauty that surrounds you, ensuring you have lasting memories of this idyllic setting. After your exploration, you'll make your way to the Goma Border. Once you've cleared customs and entered the Democratic Republic of Congo, you'll drive to your hotel, arriving in the late afternoon. Here, you can unwind with dinner and reflect on the day’s remarkable experiences during your overnight stay.

 

Driving distance:  3 Hours
Activities: Twin Lakes

Overnight: 

Value: Caritas Hotel | Midrange: Ihusi Hotel | Luxury: Lac Kivu Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board

 

DAY 6: MOUNT NYIRAGONGO HIKE ON LIVE VOLCANO

After an energizing early breakfast, today is the day you hike the spectacular Nyiragongo volcano. Standing at an impressive 3,468 meters, Nyiragongo is not just any volcano—it's one of the world’s most beautiful and active volcanoes, soaring high above the lush jungles of Virunga National Park. The excitement builds as you embark on a thrilling five-hour trek to the rim of the crater, where a 1.2 km-wide crater holds a mesmerizing lava lake that will take your breath away.

As you make your way up, you'll traverse through vibrant forests and rugged lava fields, with a steep incline that adds an exhilarating challenge near the summit. But the reward? Watching the fiery, bubbling lava as night falls is nothing short of magical. You’ll be staying in cozy Nyiragongo Crater Cabanas right on the volcano rim, allowing you to soak in the stunning views both day and night. And don't forget, camping overnight high above the active lava lake is an experience you won’t want to miss!

 

 Driving distance: 
 Activities: Nyiragongo Hiking

 Overnight: Bandas
 Meal Plan:  Half Board- Dinner and Breakfast

 

DAY 7: MOUNT NYIRAGONGO DESCEND + DEPART FOR KIGALI (RWANDA)

After breakfast, you'll start your descent at 7:00 AM, reaching the trailhead in time for lunch. Next, you’ll head to the Grande Barrière, the border crossing into Congo, to clear customs before continuing on to Kigali. If your schedule permits, you’ll have the chance to embark on a complimentary city tour, visiting interesting spots such as the lively craft market, the Gisozi Genocide Memorial, and the Kigali Museum. This is also a perfect opportunity for some last-minute shopping in one of Africa's warmest and friendliest capitals. Finally, you'll be dropped off at Kigali International Airport for your late evening flight home.

End of service

 

Driving distance:   3 Hours
Activities: Mount Nyiragongo descend + Kigali City Tour
Overnight: 0
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

 

To be more specific, here is what is included and excluded in the package

Cost Includes

• Transport in a 4WD safari vehicle exclusive to you
• English speaking driver guide
• Accommodation and meals as stated in the program
• All guide fees
• Golden Monkey Trekking Permit in Volcanoes Park
• One Gorilla tracking permit in Bwindi National Park or Mgahinga National Park
• Nyiragongo Hike Permit
• Nyiragongo Food Package (Half Board)
• Congo Tourist Visa
• Cultural Activities
• Visit to Twin Lakes
• Complimentary City Tour

Cost Excludes

• International flights & Visas for Rwanda & Uganda
• Travel Insurances
• Driver guide or local escort tips
• Drinks and dining rooms tips, porter age, personal travel and baggage
• Telephone bill, laundry and any items of a personal nature
• Activities not mentioned in the program

 

Get Your Custom Rwanda-Uganda-Congo Gorilla Trekking Tour Quote Now

As you consider booking this tour, envision the incredible moments that await you—each day filled with the thrill of encountering majestic gorillas, the vibrant cultures of Rwanda and Uganda, and the breathtaking landscapes that will leave you in awe.  Amahoro Tours offer details on Congo gorilla trekking vs Rwanda gorilla trekking to truly understand each expectation. This journey is more than just a trip; it’s a chance to embrace life fully, create unforgettable memories, and connect deeply with nature and the rich heritage of the region. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on this adventure; let it be the experience that inspires you to seize the day and explore the wonders of our world. Book your journey now and start making memories that will last a lifetime!