The Virunga Classic Highlights

• Day 1: Arrival

  Arrive at the Grande Barrière border crossing by 11:30 am and ensure check-in with the Virunga tourism office by 1:00 pm. The office is conveniently located in the Grande Barrière border post building, opposite passport control. Guests will receive gorilla and volcano trek permits, which must be presented before each trek. After check-in, guests will be transported to Mikeno Lodge at the Park headquarters in Rumangabo. A late lunch will be served upon arrival, and the afternoon can be spent exploring nature trails, bird watching, or visiting Virunga's famous Congohounds.

• Day 2: First Gorilla Trek

  After an early breakfast at Mikeno Lodge, guests will head to Bukima Ranger Post for their first gorilla trek. Upon arrival, trekkers will meet their ranger guides and pisteurs for a briefing before starting the trek. Hiking usually takes 1-2.5 hours each way, depending on the gorilla group's location and the terrain's difficulty. After spending an hour with the gorillas, trekkers will return to Bukima Camp for a late lunch. The rest of the afternoon can be spent exploring Bukima, including bird watching or visiting the Park’s bamboo project.

• Day 3: Second Gorilla Trek

  The second gorilla trek begins at 8:30 am. After the trek, a quick lunch will be served at Bukima Camp. Once all trekkers have returned, guests will be transported back to Mikeno Lodge. The afternoon can be enjoyed at leisure—exploring the Park HQ or relaxing with a book by the fire.

• Day 4: Leisure Day at Mikeno Lodge

  This day is dedicated to relaxation and exploring the peaceful surroundings of Mikeno Lodge. Guests can take nature walks, bird-watch, or simply enjoy the serene environment.

• Day 5: Nyiragongo Volcano Trek

  After breakfast at Mikeno Lodge, guests will be transported to the Kibati Ranger Post, the starting point for the Nyiragongo volcano trek. Climbers will receive a briefing and have the option to hire porters before beginning the ascent. The climb takes approximately four to six hours, and trekkers will spend the night at the summit, taking in the spectacular views of the lava lake.

• Day 6: Volcano Descent and Departure

  In the early morning, climbers will leave the crater rim and begin the descent back to Kibati. The descent takes about four hours. Once at the base, guests will be transported back to Goma with a drop-off at the Grande Barrière border crossing, concluding their adventure.

The Virunga Classic package offers a six-day journey through Virunga National Park, featuring breathtaking gorilla treks, the stunning Bukima Tented Camp, and an unforgettable ascent of the Nyiragongo volcano. With luxurious stays at Mikeno Lodge, this adventure is perfect for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.