3 Days Eastern lowland gorillas safari in congo
The 3 Days Eastern lowland gorillas safari in Congo is one of the short and magical primate experiences in the Democratic Republic of Congo. There are about 4,000 remaining lowland gorillas and these can only be found in Kahuzi beiga national park, and Maiko national park however those in Kahuzi beiga are the only ones accessible for visitors. This park, Kahuzi Biega national park, has 2 dormant volcanoes within it including; mount Kahuzi (3,308 m) and Mount Biega (2,790 m) with 2 sectors; Highland (Open for visits) and the lowland (closed for visits). Kahuzi Biega national park has only 3 guerrilla groups habituated for visit by the tourists however; the park doesn’t only have lowland gorillas but a number of other animals like the Forest Hog, the forest Elephant, Antelopes and the bush duikers.
This 3 days lowland gorilla trekking travel plan will start and end in Kigali Rwanda simply because Rwanda is the nearest place to access the Kahuzi beiga national park. It also requires an earlier arrival in Rwanda like a day before your transfer to Kahuzi Beiga national park given the time taken driving.
It’s important to note that the Democratic Republic of Congo is not an East African country and therefore note that your Rwanda Visa expires immediately you cross into Congo so you will have to reapply for another while at the border and find it ready after the tour.
Highlights of the safari
- Day 1: Pick-up from Kigali and transfer to Bukavu
- Day 2: Lowland gorilla trekking – Cyangungu
- Day 3: Transfer back to Kigali
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Pick-up from Kigali and transfer to Bukavu
Depending on your location in Kigali city, you will meet our company representative-guide who will also be your safari driver to transfer to Bukavu. It’s about 7 hours’ drive through the Nyungwe forest national park with amazing views of the rolling hill in Rusizi with stopovers for lunch and refreshments. Cross through Cyangugu border after finalising with the immigration process and proceed to Bukavu town which is the nearest town to Kahuzi Biega national park in Democratic Republic of Congo. Upon arrival at Bukavu town, connect to your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay
Accommodation and meals (Full board)
- Luxury option; Orchid safari lodge
- Mid-range option; Panorama Hotel
- Budget option; Hotel Elizabeth
Day 2: Lowland gorilla trekking – Cyangungu
Enjoy your breakfast at your hotel before transfer to the park headquarters for briefing about the Eastern lowland gorillas. Thereafter embark on your fascinating trekking experience of the Eastern lowland gorillas in the valleys of Kahuzi as you encounter different mammals, birds and primates. The search usually takes about 1-6 hours’ trekking in the jungle depending on the movements of the lowland gorillas and on finding them, you will be allowed to spend 1 hour in their presence as you watch them interact/play with each other while you take photos and videos of the experience. After your encounter with the Eastern lowland gorillas, you will descend, meet your driver and return to your hotel for relaxation, dinner and overnight at accommodation as above
Day 3: Transfer back to Kigali
Wake up early, enjoy your breakfast and embark on your journey back to Kigali City of Rwanda. It’s a 7 hours’ drive still driving through Nyungwe national park with en-route visit to the King’s palace in Nyanza, Butare national museum and lunch break before proceeding to Kigali. Depending on your schedule, you will either be dropped at a location you advise in Kigali or be dropped off at Kigali international airport for your onward flight back home or to your next destination. End of 3 days Kahuzi Biega.
Quote for the safari includes:
- Pick-up and drop off Kigali
- Lowland gorilla permit
- Congo Visa
- English/ French speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation and meals as described in the itinerary
- 4X4 safari vehicle and Fuel
- Bottled mineral water in the car
Quote for the safari excludes:
- International flights fees
- Porters and walking sticks for trekking
- Tourists visa fees for Rwanda
- Items of personal nature like Laundry, Telephone calls, luxury drinks among others.
- Tips and gratuities to service providers
- Any other item not mentioned in the itinerary and extra costs not included in the itinerary
