On this 3-day Congo Lowland Gorillas & Nyungwe Chimpanzee Trekking Safari, expect nothing but an exclusive primate experience.
Nyungwe National Park is one of the four national parks in Rwanda, East Africa, home to over 13 unique primate species, including the dominant chimpanzees. Kahuzi-Biega National Park serves as a sanctuary for the rare Eastern Lowland gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa.
You will spend a day in each of these destinations, trekking mighty chimpanzees and the endangered Eastern Lowland gorillas, respectively.
This trip starts and ends at Kigali International Airport, with safari van transportation, accommodations, and meals well-catered for.
Everyone on the trip will have a share of fun and an unforgettable experience.
Detailed Congo Lowland Gorillas & Chimpanzee Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Departure to Nyungwe National Park & Afternoon Canopy Walk
With everyone ready for the trip, our company representative will gladly pick you up from either the airport or Kigali city.
You will receive a briefing on what to expect during the three-day adventure before embarking on the journey to Nyungwe National Park, one of the most visited parks and a primate haven with more than 13 unique primate species.
Enjoy the breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush vegetation, and friendly locals.
Upon arrival at the park, proceed to lunch, followed by an exciting canopy walk that unveils more of the park’s beauty, a variety of birds in the treetops, and a few common primates. End the day with a delicious dinner and peaceful sleep at the lodge.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Today, you will reunite with your close relatives, the chimpanzees, after an early morning cup of coffee.
Drive to the park headquarters for a briefing before embarking on the trekking session in an area where over 13 unique primate species coexist.
Park rangers will guide you through the forest, anticipating encounters with chimpanzees feeding, playing, and relaxing on the ground or in the treetops.
Chimpanzee trekking lasts approximately 1-5 hours, with an additional hour for close observation of these rare creatures.
Chimpanzees share about 98.8% of human genes, displaying many attributes similar to humans, such as eating habits, tool use, and social behavior.
Afterward, return to the lodge for lunch and check out for an exciting transfer to eastern Congo’s Kahuzi-Biega National Park, passing through flourishing plantations, rolling hills, and friendly communities.
Alternatively, enjoy a scenic boat cruise to reach Kahuzi-Biega National Park.
At the Congo-Rwanda border post, verify and obtain necessary documents before continuing to your accommodation for dinner and a restful night.
Day 3: Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking and Departure
Begin the third day with a delicious breakfast at the lodge before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing with park rangers. They will verify trekking documents, explain trekking rules, and provide insights into these magnificent apes.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park is home to the giant Eastern Lowland gorillas, diverse bird species, and several other primates.
The briefing session lasts approximately thirty minutes, followed by a trekking expedition lasting about 1-6 hours, plus an additional hour for photography and close observation of the gorillas.
During your exploration, expect encounters with various mammals, primates, reptiles, and numerous bird species.
Observe the gorillas’ feeding habits, physical features, and social interactions, reflecting their over 95% genetic similarity to humans.
After the trekking, return to the lodge for lunch, followed by check-out for a scenic drive back to Kigali city or Kigali International Airport for your onward flight home or to another destination.
End of Safari.