7-Day Congo Primate Safari
Venture deep into the heart of Central Africa on this 7-Day Congo Primate Safari, a journey that unveils the wild beauty and biological richness of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This adventure brings you face-to-face with some of Africa’s most remarkable primates — from the mighty mountain gorillas of Virunga National Park to the gentle Eastern Lowland Gorillas of Kahuzi-Biega National Park, and even chimpanzees in the dense forests of Rumangabo.
Every day on this safari reveals a new encounter, a new connection with nature’s most intelligent and emotional species, all set against the backdrop of Congo’s volcanic mountains, lush rainforests, and sparkling lakes.
Safari Overview
Destinations: Virunga National Park, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Lake Kivu
Activities: Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, nature walks, cultural visits
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Start/End: Kigali (Rwanda) – Goma – Bukavu – Kigali
Best For: Primate enthusiasts, photographers, adventure travelers
Safari Highlights
- Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
Trek through mist-covered forest to meet one of Virunga’s habituated gorilla families in their natural habitat. - Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Encounter the world’s largest gorilla subspecies — the Eastern Lowland Gorilla (Grauer’s Gorilla) — in the ancient forests of Kahuzi-Biega. - Chimpanzee Tracking at Rumangabo
Join Virunga’s researchers on an early morning chimpanzee tracking experience, learning about their complex social behavior and conservation. - Lake Kivu Relaxation and Scenic Transfers
Enjoy the calm beauty of Lake Kivu, its volcanic islands, and charming lakeside towns connecting the two national parks. - Cultural Encounters and Conservation Learning
Visit ranger posts, meet local communities, and explore how eco-tourism supports both wildlife and people.
Detailed 7-Day Congo Primate Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Goma, DRC
Arrive at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, where you’ll be greeted by your GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS representative. After a short briefing, begin a scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills to the Grande Barrière border post, where you cross into the DRC.
Complete visa formalities and continue to Mikeno Lodge in Virunga National Park, your base for the next two nights.
Dinner and overnight at Mikeno Lodge.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking at Rumangabo
Rise early and join Virunga’s researchers for a chimpanzee tracking experience in the forests surrounding Rumangabo Headquarters. Watch these intelligent primates feed, play, and interact in their natural environment.
After the trek, visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage Center, the only facility in the world that cares for orphaned mountain gorillas. Spend the afternoon relaxing at your lodge or walking nearby forest trails.
Overnight at Mikeno Lodge.
Day 3: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
After breakfast, transfer to Bukima Patrol Post for a briefing by park rangers. Begin your mountain gorilla trek, winding through bamboo and rainforest terrain.
Once you locate the gorilla family, spend a full hour in their presence — an experience that words cannot capture. Watch as silverbacks display dominance, juveniles tumble through vines, and mothers cradle their young with tenderness.
Return to your lodge for lunch and an afternoon at leisure.
Overnight at Mikeno Lodge or Bukima Tented Camp.
Day 4: Transfer to Bukavu – Scenic Lake Kivu Journey
After breakfast, depart Virunga and drive along the picturesque shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most beautiful freshwater lakes. The journey passes through charming villages and rolling green hills.
Arrive in Bukavu, a tranquil lakeside town and gateway to Kahuzi-Biega National Park. Check in at Coco Lodge Bukavu or Orchids Safari Club for dinner and overnight.
Day 5: Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
After an early breakfast, drive to the Tshivanga Visitor Center, the starting point for your Eastern Lowland Gorilla trek. These gorillas differ from their mountain relatives — larger in size, with shorter hair and peaceful temperament.
The trek takes you deep into the primary rainforest, where you’ll spend an hour observing these incredible creatures in their undisturbed home. Few wildlife encounters on Earth compare to the moment when a Grauer’s Gorilla locks eyes with you.
Return to Bukavu in the afternoon and relax at your lodge.
Overnight at Coco Lodge Bukavu.
Day 6: Cultural and Nature Experience – Lake Kivu Relaxation
Spend the morning exploring Bukavu’s local markets or visit a nearby community initiative supported by conservation tourism. In the afternoon, unwind with a boat cruise on Lake Kivu, enjoying the serene scenery and birdlife.
Optional activities include kayaking or a guided walk along the lakeshore.
Overnight at Coco Lodge Bukavu or Orchids Safari Club.
Day 7: Return to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, cross back into Rwanda via the Ruzizi border post. Drive through Rwanda’s scenic countryside to Kigali, arriving in time for a short city tour or airport drop-off for your flight home.
End of the 7-Day Congo Primate Safari.
Best Time to Visit Congo for Primate Safaris
The best time to embark on this primate safari is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when trekking trails are dry and sightings are frequent.
However, the wet seasons (March–May and October–November) bring lush vegetation and fewer crowds — ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Travel Requirements
- Valid Passport (6 months minimum validity)
- DRC and Rwanda Tourist Visas
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Card (mandatory)
- COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate or negative PCR test (depending on regulations)
- Travel insurance covering medical evacuation and trekking activities
Why Choose the 7-Day Congo Primate Safari
This safari offers the rare chance to meet three great ape species in one journey — mountain gorillas, lowland gorillas, and chimpanzees. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore Congo’s full primate diversity while supporting conservation and sustainable tourism.
The route also highlights Congo’s scenic and cultural diversity — from Virunga’s volcanoes to Kahuzi-Biega’s ancient rainforest, all connected by the calm expanse of Lake Kivu.
Plan Your Congo Primate Adventure with GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS
At GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS, we design expertly guided Congo primate safaris that prioritize safety, comfort, and conservation. Our team handles permits, logistics, accommodation, and cross-border coordination, ensuring you enjoy every moment of this extraordinary journey.
Inquire and book your 7-Day Congo Primate Safari today with GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS, and experience the wild heart of Africa — where every encounter tells the story of evolution, resilience, and the timeless bond between humans and nature.