3 Day Gorilla Trekking Virunga National Park DRC

Venture into the wild heart of Central Africa on a 3-Day Gorilla Tracking Safari in Virunga National Park, the oldest national park in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Virunga offers one of the most raw and authentic gorilla trekking experiences on the continent. This safari is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path encounter with the critically endangered mountain gorillas in a dramatic volcanic landscape.

3 Day Gorilla Trekking Virunga National Park Highlights

  • Trek mountain gorillas in Africa’s oldest national park

  • Enjoy low tourist traffic and intimate gorilla encounters

  • Visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage (optional)

  • Explore Virunga’s breathtaking volcanic landscapes

  • Expert-guided treks led by Virunga park rangers

3 Day Gorilla Trekking Virunga National Park Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Virunga National Park

Begin your journey with a morning arrival in Goma, the main gateway to Virunga, either by flight or road transfer from Rwanda’s border town of Gisenyi. After clearing immigration and receiving your Virunga tourist permit, you’ll be welcomed by park staff and transferred to your accommodation within or near the park.

After check-in, take time to explore your surroundings or relax with views of the Nyiragongo Volcano in the distance. If time allows, optional excursions such as a visit to the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage Centre—the only facility of its kind for orphaned mountain gorillas—can be arranged. Enjoy dinner at your lodge and prepare for an early start the next day.

Day 2: Gorilla Tracking in the Forest

After an early breakfast, head to the Bukima Ranger Station, the starting point for your gorilla trek. Following a detailed briefing by park rangers, you’ll begin your hike through Virunga’s lush montane forests. Trekking time can vary from 1 to 4 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family.

Once you reach them, spend a powerful one hour observing these magnificent creatures in the wild. Watch young gorillas play, mothers nurture their infants, and silverbacks maintain order—an intimate glimpse into their close-knit family structure. With fewer visitors than other gorilla destinations, Virunga offers a more private and serene encounter.

Return to your lodge in the afternoon to relax and reflect on your once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Day 3: Departure

After breakfast, transfer back to Goma for your departure. Optional activities like a city tour or craft shopping can be arranged if time allows. Alternatively, continue your adventure with a hike up Mount Nyiragongo or an extension to other parks in the region