8-Day Adventure to Murchison Falls, Gorillas and Mount Nyiragongo: An Unforgettable Journey
Murchison Falls, the Gorillas and Mount Nyiragongo are natural wonders. Embark on an 8-day expedition that combines breathtaking natural scenery in Congo with thrilling Gorilla encounters in Uganda. This Safari offers travelers a blend of adventure, cultural experiences. This is a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of Murchison Falls National Park, the Gorillas and Mount Nyiragongo. Prepare to traverse lush landscapes, see endangered animal species and marvel at one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
Tour in Brief
- Day 1: Begin with a transfer to Murchison Falls National Park, visiting the Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary en route.
- Day 2: Enjoy a morning game drive followed by an afternoon launch cruise on the Nile.
- Day 3: Return to Kampala, with a stop at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
- Day 4: Journey to Bwindi National Park for gorilla trekking preparation.
- Day 5: Trek to see the mountain gorillas and interact with Batwa Pygmies or enjoy canoeing.
- Day 6: Transfer to Gisenyi in Rwanda.
- Day 7: Hike the formidable Mount Nyiragongo.
- Day 8: Descend from Mount Nyiragongo and conclude the tour.
Detailed Itinerary Murchison falls , the Gorillas to Mount Nyiragongo
Day 1: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park – Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Your journey begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Kampala. As you travel northwards to Murchison Falls National Park, a stop at the Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers a poignant introduction to conservation efforts in Uganda. The sanctuary is home to the endangered white rhinos, and you’ll have the chance to see them up close during a guided walking safari. After the visit, continue to the park, check into your lodge, and enjoy the serene surroundings of Uganda’s largest national park.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Launch Cruise
An early start to the day brings you face-to-face with the park’s diverse wildlife on a morning game drive. Explore the vast landscapes in search of elephants, lions, and the elusive leopard. After lunch, a launch cruise on the Victoria Nile to the base of Murchison Falls offers a refreshing perspective of the park. This cruise is often highlighted by sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, including the rare shoebill stork.
Day 3: Transfer back to Kampala, overnight in Kampala
Bid farewell to Murchison Falls as you head back to Kampala. Upon arrival in Kampala, enjoy a relaxing evening with a stay at a comfortable hotel, preparing for the journey ahead.
Day 4: Drive to Bwindi National Park – Long Drive with Stops
Prepare for a full day’s drive to Bwindi National Park, known for its incredible biodiversity and as the habitat of the mountain gorillas. The drive is long but scenic, with stops along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy the Ugandan countryside. Arrive at your lodge in the evening and rest up for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.
Day 5: Mountain Gorilla Trekking – Visit Batwa Pygmies / Canoeing
After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing and then embark on the trek through the dense forest in search of one of the resident gorilla families. Spending an hour with these magnificent creatures is an unforgettable experience. In the afternoon, choose to visit the Batwa pygmies, indigenous dwellers of the forest, or go canoeing on a nearby lake, offering a tranquil end to an exhilarating day.
Day 6: Transfer to Rwanda to Gisenyi
Travel from Uganda to Rwanda, arriving in the beautiful lakeside town of Gisenyi. The journey offers splendid views of the Virunga Mountains and lush countryside. Once in Gisenyi, relax by Lake Kivu or explore the town’s relaxed atmosphere.
Day 7: Hike Mount Nyiragongo
Today’s challenge is hiking Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano famous for its large lava lake. Starting early, ascend the volcanic slopes, experiencing changing vegetation and panoramic views. Reach the summit and spend the night in a basic shelter, gazing at the bubbling lava below—a rare and mesmerizing sight.
Day 8: Descend the Volcano
Descend Mount Nyiragongo in the morning, taking in the last views of the volcano and its surroundings. The hike down is exhilarating, completing a journey of physical challenge and natural beauty. Return to Gisenyi for a bit of relaxation before your onward travel