The Great Lakes region of Africa is a traveler’s paradise, offering a stunning mix of landscapes, diverse wildlife, rich cultures, and deep history. Covering Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This journey with Kyooma Gorilla Safaris through the four Great Lakes Countries is an experience of a lifetime.
Detailed Itinerary;
Day 1-3: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Start your adventure in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a deep historical perspective, explore Kimironko Market, and enjoy the lively nightlife. Take a day trip to the scenic twin lakes, Burera and Ruhondo, for a peaceful retreat before embarking on the next leg of the journey.
Head to Volcanoes National Park for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. This is one of the most magical wildlife encounters in the world. After the trek, unwind by Lake Kivu, take a boat ride, enjoy the beach, or visit local fishing villages.
Day 8-12: Nyungwe National Park & Bujumbura (Burundi)
Cross into Burundi and explore the tea plantations and primate-rich forests of Nyungwe National Park. Enjoy chimpanzee tracking and the famous canopy walk before proceeding to Bujumbura. Here, relax by the shores of Lake Tanganyika, visit the Livingstone-Stanley Monument, and explore the Rusizi National Park, home to hippos and crocodiles.
Venture into Burundi’s cultural capital, Gitega, where you’ll visit the Burundi National Museum and experience traditional drumming performances. Continue to the Karera Waterfalls, a hidden gem offering breathtaking scenery and relaxation.
Enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo for an expedition in Virunga National Park. Here, you can experience another incredible gorilla trek or hike the active Nyiragongo Volcano, home to a mesmerizing lava lake. Later, explore Goma’s lakeside beauty and local markets.
Cross into Uganda and explore Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for tree-climbing lions, vast savannahs, and a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel. Proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for another opportunity to see the majestic mountain gorillas.
Conclude your journey with a visit to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s most beautiful lake, where you can enjoy canoeing, hiking, and cultural interactions with local communities. Then, make your way back to Kigali for a final taste of Rwandan hospitality before heading home.
This 25-day adventure with Kyooma Gorilla Safaris across the four Great Lakes countries blends breathtaking wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. From gorilla trekking to relaxing on serene lakeshores, this journey offers an unforgettable African experience. If you are looking for an epic adventure, this is it!