Combined Nyungwe and Kahuzi Biega National Park Safari

Experience a thrilling 5-day safari exploring Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda and Kahuzi Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Start your adventure with a canopy walk and chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, immersing yourself in the lush surroundings. Then, journey to Bukavu, a town in DRC, for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Kahuzi Biega National Park. Encounter the majestic Eastern Lowland Gorillas in their natural habitat. This safari offers a unique opportunity to discover two diverse and ecologically rich destinations in the heart of Africa, Rwanda, and DR Congo.

Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda

Kickstart your journey by arriving at Kigali International Airport in the morning. From there, you’ll be whisked away to Nyungwe National Park, a haven of biodiversity and natural beauty. After a scenic drive, settle into your lodge near Nyungwe National Park, where you can unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Exploring Nyungwe Forest National Park

Start your day with an early breakfast before setting off for an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking expedition in Nyungwe Forest. Keep your eyes peeled for these playful primates as you navigate through the dense foliage. Afterward, indulge in a guided nature walk, where you can marvel at the diverse array of monkeys, birds, and other wildlife that call Nyungwe home. Return to your lodge in the evening for a well-deserved rest.

Day 3: Journey to Bukavu

Bid farewell to Nyungwe as you cross the border into the Democratic Republic of Congo. Your destination? Bukavu, the gateway to Kahuzi Biega National Park. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and take some time to relax before embarking on your next adventure.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park

Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you venture into Kahuzi Biega National Park in search of the majestic eastern lowland gorillas. With an experienced guide leading the way, trek through the forest in awe of these magnificent creatures. After an exhilarating encounter, return to your lodge for a leisurely afternoon and perhaps partake in optional cultural activities or nature walks.

Day 5: Departure

Savor a delicious breakfast at your lodge before bidding adieu to the wonders of Rwanda and the DRC. Transfer back to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, or continue your journey with fond memories of your safari adventure.

Additional Tips for Your Safari

Permits: Secure permits for chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe and gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega well in advance to ensure availability.

Packing: Pack appropriate clothing for trekking and cooler evenings, along with essentials like binoculars, a camera, and sturdy hiking boots.

Health Precautions: Consult with your healthcare provider for necessary vaccinations and medications, and obtain comprehensive travel insurance.

Local Customs: Respect local customs and wildlife regulations, and adhere to your guides’ instructions during treks for safety and to minimize disruption to the wildlife.

Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park

Kahuzi Biega National Park was made in 1970, and people started trekking lowland gorillas there in 1973. Lowland gorilla trekking is very popular here. The park was set up to protect Grauer’s gorillas, which are the world’s biggest gorillas. These gorillas are also known as Eastern Lowland gorillas. You can find them in Kahuzi Biega National Park, which is in Congo, about 30 kilometers from Bukavu town. You can get there by road or by air.

There are 12 gorilla families in the park, but only 2 of them are used to visitors. These families are called Chimanuka and Mugaruka. They are named after the dominant silverbacks in the group. Chimanuka is especially famous because it has one of the biggest gorilla families in the world, with over 36 individuals.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Chimpanzee trekking means going to see chimps in their natural home, the forest. These chimps are used to people; we call them habituated. In Rwanda, you can go chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park. The trek starts early in the morning, and groups are limited to 8 people, just like gorilla trekking.

Many tourists visit Nyungwe Forest National Park every year to see chimpanzees up close. Chimpanzees are humans’ closest relatives, so watching them play, eat, and move around can be an amazing experience. Nyungwe Forest National Park is also a good place to visit if you want to combine chimpanzee trekking with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park without traveling too far.

Best Time to Visit DR Congo and Rwanda

The best time to visit Rwanda and DR Congo is during the dry season, which happens from December to February and from June to September. During these months, it’s easier to walk along the trails because they are drier. Also, the vegetation isn’t as thick, so it’s easier to spot gorillas. Many travelers prefer visiting during the dry season for these reasons.

The slightly wet months, from March to May and from October to November, are less popular among tourists. During these months, the vegetation is thicker, and the trails can be slippery, making trekking more challenging. Because of this, some people avoid visiting gorillas during these times.

Where to Stay Near Kahuzi Beiga National Park

There are different places to stay near Kahuzi Beiga National Park, and they vary in price and comfort.

Budget Options:

• Hotel Begonias Bukavu: Prices range from $90 to $100 per night per person.
• Exodus Bukavu: Prices are similar, ranging from $90 to $100 per night per person.
• Lake Side Hotel Bukavu: Prices are also around $90 to $100 per night per person.

Mid-Range Options:

• Coco Lodge Bukavu: Prices are a bit higher, ranging from $100 to $200 per night per person.

Luxury Options:

• L’Orchids Safari Club: Prices are the highest, ranging from $200 to $400 per night per person.

Where to stay while Exploring Nyungwe Forest National Park

When visiting Nyungwe Forest National Park, there are various accommodation options available, catering to different budgets. No matter what your budget is, there’s a place to stay for you. Here are some recommended accommodations:

One & Only Nyungwe House: This is a luxurious option, offering top-notch services. Prices range from USD 750 to 2000 per person per night.

Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel: A more affordable choice compared to One & Only Nyungwe House, with prices starting from USD 300 per person per night.

Nyungwe Forest Lodge and Gisakura Guest House: These options provide mid-range accommodation, with prices ranging from USD 200 per person per night.

It’s recommended to stay at least 2 nights in Nyungwe to fully enjoy the experience.

Accessing Nyungwe and Kahuzi Biega National Park

To reach Nyungwe Forest National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park, follow these steps:

1. Fly to Kigali International Airport: Your journey begins by flying to Kigali International Airport.
2. Connect to Gisenyi Town: From Kigali, make your way to Gisenyi Town.
3. Cross the Rwanda-Congo Border: Once in Gisenyi, you’ll need to cross the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to reach Goma Town.
4. Travel to Kahuzi Biega National Park: After reaching Goma Town, drive towards the park headquarters of Kahuzi Beiga National Park. This drive takes approximately 2 hours from Gisenyi Town.