Tour to DR Congo from Kigali

Tour to DR Congo from Kigali: Your Ultimate Guide to Gorilla Trekking and Volcano Hikes

Are you in Kigali, Rwanda, and interested in trekking mountain gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)? This tour to DR Congo from Kigali gives you the incredible opportunity to visit Virunga National Park, one of Africa’s most diverse and oldest national parks, famous for its mountain gorilla trekking experiences.

Virunga National Park is not only home to the endangered mountain gorillas but also offers exciting activities such as Nyiragongo Volcano hikes, chimpanzee tracking, bird watching, and scenic nature walks. It’s important to know that only three countries in the world host mountain gorillas: Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. The mountain gorillas in Congo can be found in Virunga National Park, located within the Virunga Massif, a region shared by Rwanda and Uganda.

Trek Africa Expeditions offers tailored tours, including both budget and luxury options, to Virunga National Park from Kigali. Whether you’re looking for an exclusive experience or an affordable adventure, we ensure your Congo safari is smooth, comfortable, and unforgettable. Our luxury tours provide top-tier services, including high-end lodges, luxury land cruisers, and VIP treatment.

How to Organize and Book a Tour to DR Congo from Kigali

If you’re ready to embark on a mountain gorilla safari from Kigali to Virunga National Park, Trek Africa Expeditions is your trusted partner. We handle all the logistics, including checking availability for gorilla permits, booking accommodations, and arranging transport to and from Kigali. Our fleet of 4×4 safari vehicles, stationed in Kigali, will safely take you to Virunga National Park for your gorilla trek. Our experienced safari guides are experts in both Rwanda and Congo, ensuring a safe, informative, and seamless journey.

Cost of a Tour to DR Congo from Kigali

Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park is a daily activity, with treks starting at 7:45 AM after a briefing. Once you’re allocated to a gorilla group, you’ll hike through the forest to find and spend one hour with the gorillas. This trek also offers opportunities to spot other wildlife, such as birds and primates.

Trek Africa Expeditions provides all-inclusive packages, meaning no hidden fees. The most essential cost is the gorilla permit. Our packages range from budget to luxury safaris, allowing you to choose a trip that suits your style and budget. For example, a 2-day trip from Kigali costs $1100 per person (in a group of two), including the gorilla permits, transportation, accommodation, meals, and guide services.

Cost of Gorilla Permits to See Mountain Gorillas in Congo

Gorilla permits are a critical part of any mountain gorilla trekking experience, and the cost varies by season. Here’s a breakdown of Virunga National Park’s permit prices:

• High Season (Mid-December to Mid-March, June to October):

  • $400 per person

  • During these months, the park is busier due to holidays and the dry season, which makes trekking conditions easier.

• Low Season (March to May, November to December):

  • $200 per person

  • These discounted permits are available during the off-peak months, which also offer more affordable accommodation rates. However, you still need to book early (at least 3 months in advance) to secure a spot.

Compared to other gorilla trekking destinations, such as Uganda and Rwanda, Congo’s prices are relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.

Booking Your Congo Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Once you confirm your trip with Trek Africa Expeditions, we’ll secure your Virunga National Park permits and send you a scan of the receipt to confirm your trek. After securing the permits, you can book your international flights and finalize your balance payment for all services. We recommend booking early, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and the best rates.

What to Do and See on a Tour to DR Congo from Kigali

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

A mountain gorilla trek in Virunga National Park is one of the highlights of any DR Congo safari from Kigali. Virunga is home to a small but important population of mountain gorillas, with only six gorilla families open for trekking. These include the Kabirizi, Humba, Rugendo, Mapuwa, Lulengo, Munyaga, Nyakamwe, and Bageni gorilla groups. Of these, the Kabirizi group is the most popular, boasting over 30 gorillas. To trek this group, it’s essential to book your gorilla permit well in advance—ideally, at least 3 months ahead of your planned trek.

Chimpanzee Tracking and Habituation

Aside from gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking and habituation are also incredibly popular in Virunga National Park. Chimpanzee tracking allows you to spend an hour observing these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. For a more immersive experience, consider chimpanzee habituation, where you’ll spend a full day with the chimps, learning about their behaviors and habits. Both activities begin early in the morning and involve a guided trek through the dense forest, accompanied by researchers and trackers. Be sure to book your permits well in advance for these unique experiences.

Nature Walks through the Virunga Forest

Explore the dense, lush beauty of one of Africa’s oldest tropical rainforests with a nature walk through the Virunga Forest. As you walk through the forest trails, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the region’s diverse tree species, spot various birds, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of some mammals or reptiles. This is a perfect way to connect with nature while discovering the rich biodiversity of Virunga.

Hiking the Nyiragongo Volcano

The Nyiragongo Volcano hike is a thrilling adventure that shouldn’t be missed during your DR Congo mountain gorilla safari from Kigali. Known as one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Nyiragongo stands at an impressive 3,470 meters (11,380 feet). The trek offers incredible views of the volcano’s crater, which has been erupting since 1882. The last major eruption occurred in 2002, adding to the adventure and thrill of this hike.

Bird Watching in Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park is also a bird lover’s paradise. With over 706 recorded bird species, the park offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities. The diverse habitats within Virunga, from forests and swamps to grasslands, attract a wide variety of bird species. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or a nature enthusiast, this is an activity that will enhance your Congo safari experience.

Best Time to Visit DR Congo for Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Given that Virunga National Park is a tropical rainforest, the weather can be unpredictable, with rain showers possible at any time. However, the dry season (December, January, February, June, July, August, and September) is generally considered the best time to visit. During these months, the trails are less muddy, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot gorillas.

The wet season (March, April, May, October, and November) brings heavier rains and slippery trails, making trekking more challenging. However, this is when discounted gorilla permits are available at just $200 per person for those visiting during the rainy months. It’s a great option for budget travelers who don’t mind the wet conditions and want to experience gorilla trekking at a reduced price.

Where to Stay During Your DR Congo Safari from Kigali

Accommodations around Virunga National Park cater to all budgets, from affordable camps to luxury lodges. Here are some options:

• Budget: Bukima Tented Camp, Kibumba Tented Camp ($90–$100 per night)

• Mid-Range: Tchegera Island Camp, Lulimbi Tented Camp ($100–$200 per night)

• Luxury: Mikeno Lodge ($200–$400 per night)

Let us know your preferences, and we’ll help you secure the perfect accommodations for your Congo gorilla safari.

How to Get to DR Congo for Gorilla Trekking from Kigali

To begin your mountain gorilla trek in Virunga National Park, you’ll fly into Kigali International Airport and then transfer to Gisenyi (approximately 3 hours by car). From there, you’ll cross the Rwanda-Congo border and drive to Goma, DR Congo. The park’s headquarters, Bukima, is about a 2-hour drive from Gisenyi. This is where you’ll begin your trek to see the mountain gorillas.

Why Book Your Congo Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize personalized safari experiences. Our team is based in Uganda, with extensive knowledge of Rwanda and DR Congo, ensuring you have a smooth and memorable journey. We are a trusted member of AUTO (Association of Uganda Tour Operators) and are highly recommended on platforms like TripAdvisor and SafariBookings.

Our professional team is dedicated to providing up-to-date information and tailored advice, ensuring your mountain gorilla safari from Kigali is expertly organized, with no hidden fees. When you book with us, you’ll enjoy peace of mind, knowing that your gorilla permits, transport, and accommodations are all taken care of.

By booking a tour to DR Congo through Trek Africa Expeditions, you’ll experience the thrill of gorilla trekking and other unique activities in one of Africa’s most stunning national parks. Contact us today to start planning your adventure!