Highlights
- Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
- Encounter Endangered Mountain Gorillas
- Most Affordable Gorilla Trekking Permits
- Scenic Journey via Rwanda’s Volcano Region
- Easy Cross-Border Access
- Flexible Accommodation Options
- Safe, Guided Experience
Embark on a thrilling 2 Days Mountain Gorilla Trek in Virunga National Park adventure, one of Africa’s oldest and most biologically diverse protected areas. Located in eastern DR Congo near the Rwandan border, Virunga is world-renowned for its endangered mountain gorillas and dramatic volcanic landscapes. This short yet immersive itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking an affordable and adventurous gorilla safari from Kigali to Congo — without compromising on the experience.
With DR Congo’s gorilla permit priced at only $400, this tour offers unbeatable value compared to neighboring countries. You’ll cross into Congo via Goma, overnight near the park, and on Day 2, trek deep into the jungle to observe a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat. Accompanied by expert park rangers, this trek is safe, unforgettable, and ideal for budget-conscious travelers, solo adventurers, or those adding gorilla trekking to a wider East Africa itinerary.
Whether you're short on time or simply chasing the extraordinary, this 2 Days Mountain Gorilla Trek in Virunga delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the world’s last remaining mountain gorilla strongholds.
2 Days Mountain Gorilla Trek in Virunga National Park Itinerary Highlights
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Goma – Cross Border & Overnight in Congo
Meet your driver in Kigali (or airport pickup) for a scenic transfer through the northern hills of Rwanda to the Goma border. After immigration and visa processing, you’ll enter the Democratic Republic of Congo and proceed to your lodge near Virunga National Park. Optional city walk in Goma, depending on arrival time.
Overnight: Mikeno Lodge / Hotel Linda / Budget Goma Lodge (based on preference)
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park – Return to Kigali
Early morning transfer to Bukima Ranger Station for your once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla trekking experience in Virunga. After the briefing, hike into the forest to encounter a habituated gorilla family — spend a magical hour observing their behaviors. Return to base, receive your certificate, and transfer back to Goma, then onward to Kigali.
Optional stops: Lake Kivu view point, craft markets
End of tour.
Detailed Itinerary – 2 Days Mountain Gorilla Trek in Virunga National Park
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Goma – Cross Border into DR Congo
- Distance: Approx. 170 km / 4–5 hours (depending on border clearance)
- Meals: Lunch en route, Dinner at the lodge
Your driver-guide will pick you up in Kigali (hotel or airport) for a scenic drive through northern Rwanda’s hills towards the Goma border post. After completing immigration and visa formalities (we assist with border procedures and Congo permits), cross into Goma, DR Congo, and proceed to your lodge near Virunga National Park.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy an optional short city walk in Goma or relax at the lodge.
Accommodation options (depending on budget):
- Budget: Hotel Cap Kivu / Centre d’Accueil Caritas
- Midrange: Ihusi Hotel Goma / Kibumba Tented Camp
- Luxury: Mikeno Lodge (Virunga Foundation Property)
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park – Return to Kigali
- Trekking Time: 2–5 hours (depending on gorilla location)
- Distance back to Kigali: 170 km / 4–5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch
Wake up early and transfer to Bukima Ranger Station, the starting point for gorilla treks in Virunga. After a pre-trek briefing by the park rangers, you'll begin your hike into the dense forest in search of one of the habituated mountain gorilla families. Once located, spend 1 magical hour in their presence — watching them feed, play, and interact in their natural habitat.
After the trek, return to Bukima, receive your certificate, and then begin your return journey to Kigali, with optional stops for souvenirs or views over Lake Kivu.
End of 2 Days Mountain Gorilla Trek in Virunga National Park tour.
What’s Included in This 2 Days Mountain Gorilla Trek in Virunga National Park Safari
- 1 Gorilla trekking permit for Virunga National Park ($400)
- All ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle (Kigali–Goma–Kigali)
- 1-night accommodation in Goma or near Virunga (budget, midrange, or luxury option)
- All meals as indicated in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Bottled drinking water in the vehicle
- English-speaking professional safari driver/guide
- Border crossing assistance and Congo visa guidance
- Security and ranger escort during the gorilla trek
- Travel coordination and emergency support from our Congo team
What’s Not Included
- International flights to/from Kigali
- Congo tourist visa fee (approx. $105)
- Optional activities in Goma (e.g., city tour)
- Porter fees during the trek (optional, ~$15–$20)
- Tips for guides, rangers, and hotel staff
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, souvenirs)
Itineraries Expand all
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Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Goma – Cross Border & Overnight in Congo
Meet your driver in Kigali (or airport pickup) for a scenic transfer through the northern hills of Rwanda to the Goma border. After immigration and visa processing, you’ll enter the Democratic Republic of Congo and proceed to your lodge near Virunga National Park. Optional city walk in Goma, depending on arrival time.
Overnight: Mikeno Lodge / Hotel Linda / Budget Goma Lodge (based on preference) -
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park – Return to Kigali
Early morning transfer to Bukima Ranger Station for your once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla trekking experience in Virunga National Park. After the briefing, hike into the forest to encounter a habituated gorilla family — spend a magical hour observing their behaviors. Return to base, receive your certificate, and transfer back to Goma, then onward to Kigali.
Trip Infos
- Based on Full Board All Meals Included
- Transportation 4x4 air-conditioned Landcruiser
- Departure from Kigali/Goma
- Language English, German, Russian, Japanese, Chinese, Italia, Spanish
- Age Requirements 15+
- Min people 1
- Max people 50
Trip Includes & Excludes
- Gorilla Trekking Permit Per Person
- An Experienced English-Speaking Driver Guide (Any Language provided on Request)
- Accommodation Based on Full Board
- Bottled Safe Drinking Water
- International Flights From/To Home
- Visa Fees
- Travel Insurance
- Tips
Gallery
Availability
Map
FAQ's Expand all
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Where can I go gorilla trekking in Africa?
Jewel Gorilla Safaris offers gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park), Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park), and Democratic Republic of Congo (Virunga & Kahuzi-Biega National Parks).
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What’s the best time to go gorilla trekking?
The dry seasons (June–August and December–February) offer the best trekking conditions. However, the wet season (March–May, October–November) often has more permit availability and fewer crowds.
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How much is a gorilla trekking permit?
Uganda: $800 (trekking) / $1,500 (habituation) Rwanda: $1,500 DR Congo: $400 Permit prices are for foreign non-residents and include park entry and guided trek.
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Is gorilla trekking safe?
Yes. All treks are led by trained rangers and trackers who follow strict safety protocols. Gorillas are habituated to human presence and are generally peaceful.
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Is it safe to visit the Congo rainforest?
Parts of the Congo rainforest are accessible and safe for tourism with guided tours. We monitor safety daily and only run trips when it is officially declared safe.
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How difficult is the trek?
Trekking can range from easy to strenuous, depending on the location and gorilla movement. Bwindi is known for its steep terrain, while Volcanoes National Park is moderately challenging. Your guide will brief you in advance.
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What should I wear for a gorilla trek?
Wear long-sleeved shirts, trousers, waterproof hiking boots, a rain jacket, insect repellent, and gardening gloves for grabbing vegetation. Also bring a hat, water bottle, and camera (no flash).
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Can children go gorilla trekking?
The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years old, enforced by all national parks.
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How close can I get to the gorillas?
Trekkers are required to maintain a 7-meter distance from the gorillas to minimize disease transmission. However, gorillas may move closer out of curiosity.
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What’s included in Jewel Gorilla Safaris packages?
All our gorilla trekking itineraries include: ✔️ Gorilla permit ✔️ Transportation with professional guides ✔️ Full-board accommodation ✔️ Park entry fees ✔️ Bottled water and airport transfers
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Can I combine gorilla trekking with other activities?
Absolutely. We offer combination safaris that include chimpanzee tracking, Big Five game drives, boat safaris, cultural tours, and relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi or Lake Kivu.
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Gorilla trekking and Serengeti – can I combine both?
Yes. You can easily combine gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda with a Serengeti safari in Tanzania via regional flights.
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What to do if a gorilla charges you?
Stay still, avoid eye contact, and follow your ranger’s instructions. Such behavior is rare and usually a bluff.
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1 day gorilla trekking Uganda – is it possible?
Yes. From Kigali, you can do a 1-day Uganda gorilla trek to Bwindi. It’s fast-paced but ideal for tight schedules.
02 DAYS-CONGO
- Best Gorilla Trekking price guaranteed.
- Professional local guide.
- No Booking Fees