3 Days DR Congo Safari – Virunga National Park & Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Arrive at Goma International Airport or at the Grande Barrière border post from Rwanda. After border formalities and visa clearance, you will be met by a Virunga National Park representative who will assist with your entry and provide security clearance.

Transfer by 4x4 vehicle to your lodge near Bukima in the southern sector of Virunga. Along the drive, observe the transition from urban bustle to volcanic landscapes and forested terrain. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy lunch with views of Mount Mikeno or Nyiragongo.

In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk along designated trails near the park headquarters. This short activity offers a chance to spot colobus monkeys, birds, and learn about the park’s conservation programs. Enjoy a relaxing evening at the lodge with a briefing from the ranger team about the next day’s gorilla trekking.

Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge or Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: Lunch and dinner included
Activities: Road transfer, nature walk, pre-trek briefing

Begin the day with an early breakfast, followed by a short transfer to Bukima Ranger Post, the main starting point for gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park. After a safety briefing and group assignment, embark on the guided trek with armed rangers and trackers.

Trekking duration ranges from 1 to 4 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. Once located, you will spend one hour observing the gorillas as they feed, interact, and rest. Photography is allowed (without flash), and rangers ensure safe distances and behavior protocols.

Return to the ranger post for certificate presentation and then back to your lodge for lunch and a well-deserved rest. The afternoon is free to relax or take an optional short birding or village walk nearby.

Accommodation: Mikeno Lodge or Kibumba Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Activities: Gorilla trekking, certificate presentation, optional walk

After breakfast, depending on your departure schedule, you may choose between a relaxed morning at the lodge or a short optional activity such as a visit to the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage Center (if staying at Mikeno Lodge), where orphaned gorillas are rehabilitated.

Later, check out and transfer back to Goma. You’ll pass lava fields and small communities, with possible views of Lake Kivu. Upon arrival in Goma, continue to the airport for your flight or to the border if crossing into Rwanda.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch included
Activities: Optional orphanage visit, scenic return transfer, departure assistance

Safari includes:

Gorilla trekking permit

Park entry fees

Full-time guide and ranger escort

Transfers between Goma and Virunga

Accommodation and all meals as stated