Family Safaris
8-Day Uganda Gorillas & Wildlife family tour
Our 8 day Uganda family safari packs the very best of the Pearl of Africa into one easy, well-paced trip.
3 Days Congo Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega
Our 3 day Congo lowland gorilla safari takes you from Kigali to meet eastern lowland gorillas in their forest home. These gentle giants live in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, near Bukavu in eastern DR Congo. On this short trip, you can watch them closely and learn about their daily lives. In addition, you enjoy the green hills of southern Rwanda, the national museum in Butare and the royal palace at Nyanza.
Trip overview
The tour starts and ends in Rwanda. First, you drive across southern Rwanda to the Cyangugu border and on to Bukavu. Next, you spend a full day tracking gorillas and walking to Tshibati waterfalls. Finally, you return to Kigali for your flight. As a result, it is a compact way to see a gorilla species that few travellers ever meet.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Pick-up and transfer to Kahuzi-Biega National Park
When you land at Kigali International Airport, our expert guide gives you a warm welcome to Rwanda. Then, your guide explains everything that will happen on your lowland gorilla trekking tour.
Next, you set off for the Cyangugu border in south-west Rwanda. On the way, you cross the beautiful landscapes of southern Rwanda. First, you stop at the historic Nyanza royal palace, known as Rukari. It was home to King Musinga and his successor, Rudahigwa, so the visit gives you a real insight into Rwandan culture. After that, you continue to Butare for lunch and a visit to the Rwanda national museum, which tells the story of the country’s heritage.
Later, you cross into DR Congo and drive to Bukavu, the largest city in the east of the country. There, you refresh, enjoy dinner and rest before your big trekking day.
Day 2: Tracking lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
After breakfast, your driver guide takes you to the Kahuzi-Biega park headquarters. This park is home to some of the last surviving eastern lowland gorillas. First, you join a short briefing. Then, you enter the forest with the rangers.
The trek can last up to five hours. However, the time depends on your pace, your fitness and where the gorillas are that day. Once you find them, you have one hour to watch, photograph and learn about these remarkable apes. It is a dramatic, unforgettable encounter.
Afterwards, you enjoy a picnic lunch. Then, you head out on a nature walk to the little-known Tshibati waterfalls. The route follows an unpaved road and can be tiring. Still, the scenery along the way is stunning.
Day 3: Return to Kigali
On your last day, you enjoy a good breakfast and check out of the lodge. Then, your driver guide takes you back to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. Along the way, you pass rolling hills and beautiful plantations, so keep your camera ready.
End of tour.
Highlights of this 3 day Congo lowland gorilla safari
This short trip packs a lot into three days. Here is what makes it special:
- Eastern lowland gorillas. Meet the largest of all gorillas, a species found only in eastern DR Congo.
- A UNESCO site. Kahuzi-Biega is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its forests and gorillas.
- Tshibati waterfalls. Walk to quiet falls that few visitors see.
- Rwandan history. Visit the royal palace at Nyanza and the national museum in Butare.
- Scenic drives. Enjoy the hills, tea and farms of southern Rwanda.
Who this safari suits
This trip suits travellers who have already seen mountain gorillas and want something different. It also suits primate lovers, photographers and anyone keen to explore off the usual tourist routes. However, the trek can be long and muddy, and the roads are rough in places. So, you should be in reasonable health and ready for an adventure. If you are unsure, our team will gladly talk it through with you.
Travel conditions in eastern DR Congo
Conditions in eastern DR Congo can change, sometimes at short notice. For this reason, Roots Tours & Travel checks the current situation and the status of the park before we confirm your trip. We also keep you updated while you plan. In addition, please check your own government’s travel advice and make sure your travel insurance covers the region.
Best time to go and tips
You can track gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega all year. However, the drier months are usually easier, because forest trails are less muddy. On the other hand, the wet months bring lush scenery and fewer visitors. Whenever you go, these tips will help:
- Wear good hiking boots. Trails can be steep and slippery.
- Pack a rain jacket. Showers are common in the forest.
- Bring gloves and long sleeves. They protect you from nettles and thorns.
- Carry water and snacks. Treks can take several hours.
- Check your documents. You will need valid visas for Rwanda and DR Congo, so ask us early.
Gorilla permits are set by the park authority and change from time to time. Therefore, we will confirm the current rate when you enquire.
Extend or combine your trip
You can easily add more primates to this journey. For example, our 5 day Rwanda and Congo primates safari adds more time with apes. Alternatively, you can meet mountain gorillas on our 3 day Virunga gorilla trek. For chimpanzees, consider chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe, which lies on the road to the border. You can also read more about national parks in DR Congo.
Every trip with Roots Tours & Travel is tailor-made. So, tell us your dates, group size and interests. Then, we will send you a clear plan for your 3 day Congo lowland gorilla safari for free. Get in touch today.
Book Now
Not sure where to start? Chat with our safari specialists. We’ll help you find the perfect adventure.Every great journey begins with a conversation. Let’s plan yours.
Contact Us
- info@tourwithroots.com
- +256 776 83 1722
- +256 200 905 219
- Universal Apartments, Spine Road - Naalya - Kampala(U)
Related Safaris
Uganda Safaris
7-Day Best of Uganda Gorillas and Wildlife
Our 7 day Uganda gorilla safari combines mountain gorillas with classic savannah wildlife in one week. You look for chimpanzees
Uganda Safaris
10 Days Best Uganda Safari
Our 10 day Uganda safari is a relaxed loop through four great national parks, finishing with two easy days at