10-Days Rwanda and Congo Adventure Safari: Rates, Itinerary and Important Information

Rwanda and Congo Safari Rates and Accommodation

Mid-Range Safari Package

Discover the extraordinary landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo on this 10-day adventure safari with Epic Uganda Vacations. This multi-country journey combines chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, a scenic canopy walk, Lake Kivu excursions, a Mount Nyiragongo hiking experience, mountain gorilla trekking, and golden monkey tracking.

Our mid-range safari package offers a balance of comfort, adventure, and authentic East and Central African experiences. We also provide budget and luxury safari options upon request, allowing you to personalize your trip according to your travel preferences, accommodation needs, and budget.

Whether you dream of encountering mountain gorillas, exploring tropical rainforests, hiking volcanic landscapes, or discovering the shores of Lake Kivu, this Rwanda and Congo safari promises an unforgettable adventure.

Indicative Safari Prices

All prices are quoted per person (p/p). Rates are indicative and must be reconfirmed before booking. Final costs depend on travel dates, accommodation availability, permits, cross-border arrangements, and the services included in your confirmed itinerary.

Accommodation options: The itinerary features a selection of mid-range lodges and hotels, subject to availability and confirmation.

For an updated quotation, accommodation details, and a personalized itinerary, contact Epic Uganda Vacations.

Detailed 10-Day Rwanda and Congo Adventure Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Pick-Up in Kigali and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Your Rwanda and Congo adventure begins with a pickup from Kigali International Airport or your hotel in Kigali by your experienced driver-guide. After a short introduction to your safari, depart for Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Rwanda’s most important tropical rainforest destinations.

Enjoy scenic views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, rural communities, and beautiful countryside along the way. Depending on your schedule and the opening arrangements, you may stop at the Murambi Genocide Memorial for a meaningful historical visit. Continue to Butare, also known as Huye, for lunch before proceeding to your lodge near Nyungwe Forest.

Upon arrival, check in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the rainforest in preparation for the following day’s chimpanzee trekking and canopy walk.

Accommodation options: Nyungwe Forest Lodge, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, or Gisakura Guest House, subject to availability.

Highlights:

• • Pickup in Kigali

• • Scenic drive through Rwanda’s countryside

• • Optional visit to Murambi Genocide Memorial

• • Lunch stop in Butare/Huye

• • Arrival near Nyungwe Forest National Park

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk

Start your morning with breakfast before heading to the designated park briefing point for your chimpanzee trekking experience. Park staff will explain the trekking guidelines, safety procedures, and responsible wildlife-viewing practices.

Accompanied by experienced guides, venture into Nyungwe’s lush rainforest in search of wild chimpanzees. Once the chimpanzees are located, visitors are generally permitted a limited viewing period, typically up to one hour, subject to park regulations and the applicable permit conditions. Observe their behavior, social interactions, and movement through the forest while taking photographs in accordance with the guidelines.

Nyungwe is also home to other primates, including L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, and Angola colobus monkeys, alongside an impressive variety of forest birds and plant life.

After lunch, experience the Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk, an elevated walkway suspended above the forest floor. Enjoy panoramic views of the rainforest canopy, surrounding hills, and the remarkable biodiversity of this protected ecosystem.

Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.

Accommodation options: Nyungwe Forest Lodge, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, or Gisakura Guest House, subject to availability.

Highlights:

• • Guided chimpanzee trekking

• • Rainforest wildlife and primate viewing

• • Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk

• • Scenic forest views and birdwatching opportunities

Day 3: Transfer from Nyungwe Forest to Lake Kivu

After breakfast, leave Nyungwe Forest and travel toward Lake Kivu, one of the Great Lakes of East Africa. The journey takes you through Rwanda’s scenic countryside, with rolling green hills, terraced farmland, and charming rural settlements.

Depending on your chosen route and final destination, you will travel toward the Lake Kivu shoreline near Rubavu or another agreed lakeside location.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the afternoon relaxing beside the lake. Enjoy the tranquil waterfront scenery, take a leisurely walk along the shore, or unwind at your hotel, subject to the facilities available.

Lake Kivu is known for its beautiful landscapes, peaceful beaches, and surrounding hills, making it an ideal place to relax between your rainforest and volcanic adventures.

Accommodation options: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Malahide Paradise Hotel, or Le Palme Beach Resort, subject to availability and the confirmed route.

Highlights:

• • Scenic transfer through Rwanda

• • Views of the countryside and terraced hills

• • Relaxation along Lake Kivu

• • Lakeside leisure time

Day 4: Mount Nyiragongo Volcano Hiking Adventure

After breakfast, depart for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, following the confirmed border-crossing arrangements and security guidance applicable to your travel dates.

Proceed toward the designated starting point for your Mount Nyiragongo hiking adventure. The hike is a demanding mountain excursion that requires good physical fitness, appropriate clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and preparation for changing weather conditions.

Accompanied by authorized guides and subject to official access arrangements, begin your ascent through volcanic terrain toward the summit. As you climb, experience dramatic views of the surrounding landscape and the volcanic region.

Mount Nyiragongo is renowned for its volcanic history and summit crater. However, access to the mountain and visibility of an active lava lake depend on current volcanic activity, official park operations, and safety restrictions. The hike must only proceed when officially authorized.

After reaching the permitted overnight area, settle into the designated mountain accommodation and enjoy dinner and an overnight stay, subject to the availability of approved facilities.

Accommodation: Designated Mount Nyiragongo mountain huts, only if the trek and overnight stay are officially operating and confirmed.

Highlights:

• • Cross-border adventure into the Democratic Republic of the Congo

• • Guided volcano hiking, subject to official access

• • Dramatic volcanic landscapes

• • Summit views and a mountain overnight experience, where permitted

Day 5: Descend Mount Nyiragongo and Transfer to Goma

Wake up in the mountain environment and enjoy breakfast according to the trekking arrangements. Begin your descent along the designated route, following your guides’ instructions and maintaining a comfortable, safe pace.

After reaching the official starting point, complete the required departure procedures and continue to Goma, subject to road access, security conditions, and official travel guidance.

Depending on the arrangements confirmed for your visit, spend the remainder of the day relaxing at your hotel or exploring approved areas of Goma.

Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay before continuing your Lake Kivu adventure.

Accommodation options: Hôtel Cap Kivu, Lac Kivu Lodge, or Karibu Hotel Goma, subject to availability and current operating conditions.

Highlights:

• • Guided descent from Mount Nyiragongo, if the trek is operating

• • Return to the designated trailhead

• • Transfer to Goma, subject to access and security conditions

• • Relaxation after the mountain hike

Day 6: Lake Kivu Boat Excursion and Island Exploration

After breakfast, continue your Lake Kivu adventure with a boat excursion, subject to the confirmed departure location and prevailing lake conditions.

Explore selected islands and enjoy views of the surrounding hills, lakeside settlements, and the natural beauty of the region. Depending on the agreed route, possible destinations may include Napoleon Island, known for its fruit bats and distinctive hilltop shape, and Nyamirundi Island, associated with coffee cultivation and local coffee experiences.

On Nyamirundi Island, where access and activities are available, learn about coffee production, from cultivation and harvesting to processing and preparation. This experience provides an opportunity to discover part of the region’s agricultural heritage while enjoying the scenery of Lake Kivu.

Return to your hotel in the evening for dinner and relaxation.

Accommodation options: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Malahide Paradise Hotel, or Le Palme Beach Resort, depending on your confirmed route and availability.

Highlights:

• • Scenic boat excursion on Lake Kivu

• • Exploration of selected islands

• • Optional coffee experience on Nyamirundi Island

• • Views of the surrounding hills and lakeside communities

Day 7: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, depart for Rwanda and travel toward Volcanoes National Park in the Musanze region, following the confirmed border-crossing arrangements if your overnight location is in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside, passing rolling hills, cultivated landscapes, and rural communities. Stop for lunch along the way, depending on your departure time and route.

Upon arrival in the Volcanoes National Park area, check in at your selected lodge and receive a briefing on the following day’s mountain gorilla trekking experience.

Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for your wildlife encounter in one of Africa’s most celebrated mountain habitats.

Accommodation options: The Garden Place Hotel, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, or Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, subject to availability.

Highlights:

• • Transfer to Rwanda’s Musanze region

• • Scenic countryside views

• • Arrival near Volcanoes National Park

• • Preparation for mountain gorilla trekking

Day 8: Mountain Gorilla Trekking and Iby’Iwacu Cultural Experience

Enjoy an early breakfast before heading to the designated gorilla trekking briefing point at Kinigi. Park officials will explain the trekking guidelines, safety procedures, and responsible behavior required when visiting mountain gorillas.

Accompanied by authorized park guides, enter the forest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. The trek may take several hours, depending on the gorillas’ location, terrain, and weather conditions.

Once the gorillas are located, visitors are generally allowed up to one hour with the group, subject to the applicable permit conditions and park regulations. Observe these remarkable primates in their natural habitat and learn about their social behavior and conservation.

Return to your lodge after the trek for lunch and some well-earned relaxation.

In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, also known as the Gorilla Guardians Village, if operating and included in your confirmed itinerary. Discover aspects of Rwandan heritage through traditional music, dance, storytelling, and community-led cultural activities.

Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accommodation options: The Garden Place Hotel, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, or Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, subject to availability.

Highlights:

• • Guided mountain gorilla trekking

• • Responsible wildlife viewing

• • Conservation awareness

• • Traditional Rwandan music and dance

• • Community cultural experience

Day 9: Golden Monkey Trekking and Twin Lakes Visit

Begin the day with breakfast before proceeding to the designated briefing point for your golden monkey trekking experience. Following instructions from park officials, enter the forest with authorized guides to search for these lively and distinctive primates.

Golden monkeys are known for their striking golden-orange fur and energetic behavior. Observe them moving through the bamboo forest and feeding in their natural habitat, while following all park rules for responsible wildlife viewing.

After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation.

Later in the afternoon, visit the beautiful Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, subject to your preferred schedule and local conditions. Surrounded by green hills and rural communities, these lakes offer wonderful scenery and opportunities for photography.

Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accommodation options: The Garden Place Hotel, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, or Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, subject to availability.

Highlights:

• • Guided golden monkey trekking

• • Primate photography and forest exploration

• • Scenic visit to Lakes Burera and Ruhondo

• • Panoramic views of Rwanda’s volcanic landscapes

Day 10: Transfer to Kigali and Departure

Enjoy breakfast at your lodge before checking out and beginning your transfer to Kigali International Airport or your preferred hotel in Kigali.

If your flight schedule allows sufficient time, you may arrange an optional Kigali city tour. Depending on your interests and opening hours, this may include the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, craft shops, and other cultural attractions.

Please allow sufficient time for the road transfer, any planned sightseeing, airport check-in, and international departure procedures.

Upon arrival at the airport or your selected drop-off point, your 10-day Rwanda and Congo adventure safari comes to an end.

Thank you for traveling with Epic Uganda Vacations. We hope you leave with lasting memories of Rwanda’s rainforests, Lake Kivu, remarkable primates, and the dramatic landscapes of the Great Lakes region.

Important Information Before Booking Your Rwanda and Congo Safari

Please read the following details carefully before confirming your 10-day safari with Epic Uganda Vacations.

1. Safari Rates and Price Validity

The original published prices apply to the 2024, 2025, and 2026 travel periods. As these rates are now outdated or approaching the end of their stated validity, request an updated quotation for your intended travel dates.

The final safari cost may vary according to group size, accommodation category, travel season, trekking permits, transport arrangements, border-crossing requirements, and the activities included in your confirmed itinerary.

2. Customizable Safari Itinerary

This 10-day itinerary is a sample program and may be adjusted to suit your travel preferences, budget, available time, and preferred accommodation category.

Epic Uganda Vacations can discuss budget, mid-range, and luxury arrangements where available. Any changes to the itinerary will depend on logistics, accommodation availability, permits, and the operating conditions of the destinations included.

3. Gorilla, Chimpanzee, and Golden Monkey Permits

Chimpanzee trekking, mountain gorilla trekking, and golden monkey tracking are subject to permit availability and official park regulations.

Permits should be requested well in advance, particularly during busy travel periods. Your booking is not confirmed until the relevant permits and associated arrangements have been verified.

4. Mount Nyiragongo Access and Safety

Mount Nyiragongo hiking is highly dependent on current volcanic activity, security conditions, official park access, and applicable travel advisories.

The volcano may be closed to visitors, and the route, summit access, overnight arrangements, and lava-lake viewing may be restricted or unavailable. No hike should be undertaken without official authorization and confirmed arrangements.

If Mount Nyiragongo is inaccessible, an alternative itinerary or other arrangements may be discussed, subject to feasibility and agreement.

5. Democratic Republic of the Congo Border and Security Requirements

Travel between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo is subject to border operating arrangements, entry requirements, security conditions, and any applicable travel restrictions.

Cross-border travel and activities in the Goma and Mount Nyiragongo region must be confirmed before booking and again before departure. Travelers should review current official government travel advisories and follow the instructions of authorized local authorities.

If conditions make any planned activity unsafe or inaccessible, the itinerary may need to change.

6. Passports, Visas, and Travel Documents

Travelers are responsible for obtaining the required passports, visas, permits, and other travel documents for Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Requirements depend on nationality, residency, route, and the border crossing being used. Confirm current entry requirements with the relevant official immigration authorities before departure.

7. Physical Fitness and Preparation

Chimpanzee trekking, gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and especially Mount Nyiragongo hiking may involve steep terrain, uneven trails, variable weather, and extended periods of walking.

Travelers should assess their fitness and prepare suitable clothing, hiking boots, rain protection, drinking water, and any other recommended equipment. Follow all instructions provided by authorized guides and park officials.

8. Accommodation and Transport Arrangements

The hotels and lodges listed in this itinerary are suggested options rather than guaranteed reservations. Final accommodation will depend on availability, route planning, the selected package, and the confirmed travel dates.

Transport schedules, border crossings, and transfers may also be adjusted when necessary to accommodate operational requirements and safety considerations.

9. Changes to the Itinerary

Although Epic Uganda Vacations will endeavor to follow the agreed itinerary, changes may become necessary because of weather, road conditions, security developments, park closures, government regulations, permit availability, or other circumstances beyond reasonable operational control.

Any significant changes, including substitutions or cancellations of activities, should be addressed in accordance with the confirmed booking terms and applicable policies.

10. Terms and Conditions

By confirming a booking, travelers agree to Epic Uganda Vacations’ applicable terms and conditions, including the provisions relating to payment, cancellations, amendments, permits, and unforeseen circumstances.

Please review these conditions carefully before making payment.

Book Your 10-Day Rwanda and Congo Adventure Safari

Are you ready to explore the rainforests, lakes, wildlife, and volcanic landscapes of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

Let Epic Uganda Vacations help you plan a personalized multi-country adventure featuring chimpanzee trekking, mountain gorilla encounters, golden monkey tracking, Lake Kivu excursions, and, when officially accessible, a Mount Nyiragongo hiking experience.

Contact Epic Uganda Vacations today to request updated safari rates, confirm activity and permit availability, and create an itinerary tailored to your travel dates, interests, and budget.