- Seguku Katale. Kampala
8 Days Congo, Rwanda, Uganda Safari
8 DAYS CONGO,RWANDA,UGANDA SAFARIS
This 8 Days Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda Safari offers an extraordinary journey through three of Central Africa’s most iconic wildlife and adventure destinations. The safari combines thrilling mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, and the lowland gorillas at Kahuzi Beiga in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This tour also includes visits to the stunning Lake Kivu and opportunities to immerse yourself in local cultures and natural beauty.
If seeking an adventurous, multi-country safari experience, this itinerary offers the best of Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda, blending unforgettable wildlife encounters with the rugged beauty of Central Africa’s landscapes.
Trip Summary and Highlights
Highlights:
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
- Hiking Mount Nyiragongo with views of its lava lake
- Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda
- Scenic Lake Kivu and immersive cultural tours
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Detailed Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and City Tour
Arrive in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. A guide will greet you at Kigali International Airport and introduce you to the safari itinerary. Start with a city tour, visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial for insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience. Afterward, relax at your hotel and prepare for the days ahead. Dine and rest at;
Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven/ Midrange: Hotel Mille Collines, Radisson Blu/ Budget: Five to Five Hotel, Heaven Boutique
MEAL PLAN: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
After breakfast, drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park in the northern highlands. The journey takes 2-3 hours, with scenic views of Rwanda’s lush hills. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and prepare for the upcoming gorilla trek. Dinner and overnight stay at;
Luxury: Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge/ Midrange: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge/ Budget: Kinigi Guest House, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Begin your gorilla trek with an early briefing by park rangers. Trek through the dense forest in search of a mountain gorilla family, a journey that may last 2-6 hours depending on gorilla location. Spend an hour observing the family before returning to your lodge. In the afternoon, you may opt to visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about Rwanda’s traditions Dinner and overnight stay at; Same lodge as the previous night.
MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Transfer to Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
Cross the border into Congo, heading to Bukavu. After immigration, continue to your accommodation in Bukavu, near the shores of Lake Kivu.
Upon arrival in Bukavu, you’ll check in at your hotel and receive a briefing about the next day’s trek from local guides. The evening is free for you to relax or explore the lakeside city of Bukavu. Dine and rest at;
Luxury: Orchid Safari Lodge/ Midrange: Hotel Panorama/ Budget: Exodus Hotel Bukavu
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
After breakfast, set out for Kahuzi-Biega National Park, one of the few places in the world where you can see Eastern lowland gorillas. Unlike the mountain gorillas, these lowland gorillas are slightly larger and tend to be more sociable. At the park headquarters, your guide will provide a briefing on safety and trekking guidelines, after which you’ll start your trek into the lush forest.
Trekking to find the gorillas can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on their location. Once you encounter a gorilla family, you’ll have one hour to observe and photograph them as they interact, play, and feed. The experience of watching these gentle giants in their natural habitat is truly humbling and one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters.
After the trek, you’ll return to Bukavu for a relaxing evening and a well-deserved rest after a rewarding day.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Transfer to Lake Kivu, Rwanda
Have morning breakfast and then cross back into Rwanda, heading to Lake Kivu. After arrival, relax at your lakeside lodge. You may choose to take a boat ride on Lake Kivu or simply unwind by the water.Dinner and overnight at;
Luxury: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel/ Midrange: Paradise Malahide, Palm Garden Resort/Budget: Inzu Lodge, Discover Rwanda Gisenyi Lodge
MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Leave Lake Kivu and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. The scenic 4-5 hour drive passes through terraced farms and forested landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trek in Bwindi.
Accommodation at; Super Luxury: Bwindi Lodge,Clouds Mountain Lodge, Gorilla Heifhts Lodge MidLuxury: Mahonangy Springs, Four Gorilla Cousins Lodge, Gorilla Leisure Luxury: Lake Mulehe Lodge/Ichumbi Lodge, Midrange: Bakiga Lodge/ Riusga Gorilla Camp/Rushaga gorilla Haven Lodge/ Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Ride 4 a Woman
MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Departure
End your safari with a gorilla trek in Bwindi. After a briefing, trek through the thick rainforest to locate a gorilla family. Spend an hour observing them, a profound experience to conclude your journey. Following the trek, return to Kigali for your departure.
MEAL PLAN: Breakfast and Lunch
END OF ADVENTURE
FAQs
When is the best time to visit for this safari?
The best time for this safari is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. These months offer better trekking conditions for both gorilla and volcano hikes, as the trails are less muddy. However, this safari can be done year-round.
What should I pack for the safari?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days and layers for cooler mornings and evenings. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, and pants are essential for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. A rain jacket, hat, insect repellent, and sunscreen are also recommended. Don’t forget a camera with extra batteries for capturing wildlife moments.
How physically demanding is the safari?
The gorilla treks and are physically demanding, with steep, uneven, and often muddy trails. A reasonable level of fitness is required, and porters are available to help carry your gear. The Bwindi Gorilla Trek involves a challenging ascent but offers a highly rewarding experience at the summit.
Can I take photos during the gorilla treks?
Yes, photography is allowed, but flash photography is prohibited as it can disturb the animals. Be sure to bring a camera with good low-light settings for the forest.
Do I need a visa for Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda?
Yes, you will need visas for all three countries. However, you can apply for an East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows multiple entries to Rwanda and Uganda, and a separate DRC visa for your time in Congo.
In Conclusion: this 8 Days Congo, Rwanda, Uganda Safari offers a thrilling blend of wildlife encounters and adventure in Central Africa. From trekking gorillas in the misty mountains to hiking an active volcano and relaxing by the shores of Lake Kivu, this safari delivers an unforgettable experience of Africa’s natural beauty and incredible biodiversity. Perfect for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts, this tour provides lasting memories of an extraordinary journey through three fascinating countries.(Wildlife Safari)
