What is the difference between chimpanzee trekking and habituation on this tour?

Chimpanzee trekking offers a one-hour observation of a habituated chimp group after finding them, while the habituation experience allows you to spend an entire day with researchers, observing the process of accustoming chimps to human presence, offering a deeper and longer interaction.

Is it guaranteed that I will see both gorillas and chimpanzees?

While sightings are highly probable due to the expertise of the park rangers and trackers, these are wild animals, and their movements can be unpredictable. However, Virunga National Park has a very high success rate for both gorilla and chimpanzee encounters.

What should I wear for the trekking activities?

It's recommended to wear long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, sturdy hiking boots, and gaiters to protect against insects and dense vegetation. A rain jacket is also advisable due to the rainforest climate.

Are there age restrictions for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Virunga?

Yes, the minimum age for both gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Virunga National Park is typically 15 years old.

4 Days DR Congo Chimpanzee & Mountain Gorilla Trek

Embark on an unparalleled primate adventure in Virunga National Park, the only place on Earth where you can trek both mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

Overview

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Map

FAQs

Overview

Delve into the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park, a globally significant UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this extraordinary 4-day safari.

This unique itinerary is tailor-made for primate enthusiasts and discerning adventurers, offering an incredible opportunity to encounter two of our closest living relatives in their natural, protected habitats.

From the awe-inspiring experience of standing before a habituated mountain gorilla family to observing the playful and intelligent chimpanzees, this tour promises deep immersion into Africa’s rich biodiversity.

Beginning and concluding in Kigali, Rwanda, your journey is meticulously planned, with all essential transfers, permits, luxurious accommodations, and meals thoughtfully included, ensuring a seamless and impactful African wildlife experience.

Highlights

Day 1: Scenic Transfer from Kigali to Bukima, Virunga National Park
Day 2: Awe-Inspiring Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga
Day 3: Immersive Chimpanzee Trekking or Habituation Experience
Day 4: Relaxed Return Journey to Kigali, Rwanda

Day 1 :

Transfer from Kigali to Bukima – Virunga National Park

Your adventure commences with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Kigali or from Kigali International Airport. Following a brief orientation with your guide, you embark on a picturesque 4-hour drive to Goma, crossing the Rwanda–Congo border.

Along the way, soak in the breathtaking views of Rwanda's famed rolling hills and the tranquil expanse of Lake Kivu. A stop for a delicious lunch in Goma precedes your onward journey to Bukima, the strategic entry point to Virunga National Park and the base for your upcoming gorilla trek.

Upon arrival, you check into your chosen lodge, settle in, and unwind, readying yourself for the incredible gorilla encounter that awaits.

Accommodation Options:

Platinum: Mikeno Lodge
Gold/Silver: Bukima Tented Camp

Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

Drinks: Bottled Drinking Water

Day 2 :

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park

An early breakfast sets the stage for a truly profound experience. Your guide will escort you to the Virunga Park Headquarters for an essential briefing with the park rangers. From there, you set off into the enchanting, misty rainforest, embarking on a quest to locate a habituated mountain gorilla family.

The duration of your trek is wonderfully unpredictable, ranging from a swift 30 minutes to a more extensive 6 hours, depending on the gorillas' movements and location.

However, once you find them, you are granted an awe-inspiring hour to observe their natural behaviors, capture unforgettable photographs, and quietly marvel at their striking human-like interactions—a truly humbling and life-altering moment.

After this intimate encounter, you return to the park base, where your driver will transfer you back to your comfortable lodge for a well-deserved evening of relaxation and dinner.

Accommodation:

Platinum: Mikeno Lodge
Gold/Silver: Bukima Tented Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drinks: Bottled Drinking Water

Day 3 :

Chimpanzee Trekking or Habituation in Virunga National Park

Today is dedicated to another extraordinary primate encounter: chimpanzee tracking or the immersive chimpanzee habituation experience. After breakfast, you'll once again head to the park headquarters for a briefing tailored to your chosen activity.

If you opt for the standard chimpanzee trekking experience, you will hike deep into the forest with a knowledgeable ranger to locate a group of wild chimpanzees.

Once found, you'll enjoy a thrilling one-hour encounter, witnessing them swing agilely through the trees, engage in mutual grooming, or skillfully forage for food.

Alternatively, for a deeper and more prolonged interaction, you can choose the chimpanzee habituation experience. This unique opportunity allows you to spend the entire day with a dedicated team of researchers, gaining invaluable insights into the intricate process of habituating wild chimpanzees to human presence.

This immersive option offers a more profound understanding and extended time observing these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. Please inform us of your preferred option in advance to ensure the necessary permits are secured for you.

Accommodation:

Platinum: Mikeno Lodge
Gold/Silver: Bukima Tented Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drinks: Bottled Drinking Water

Day 4 :

Return to Kigali – End of Tour

After a final breakfast amidst the tranquility of Virunga, you begin your return journey to Kigali, Rwanda. The drive back is a relaxed one, punctuated by scenic stops, including an opportunity at the Rwanda-Congo border for souvenir shopping, memorable photographs, or a short break.

You are expected to arrive in Kigali by afternoon. Depending on your flight schedule or onward travel plans, you will be conveniently dropped off at your hotel or at Kigali International Airport for departure.

Accommodation: Not Included (can be arranged upon request)

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Drinks: Bottled Drinking Water