10 DAYS BURUNDI & CONGO SAFARI

Upon arrival at Bujumbura International Airport (Melchior Ndadaye International), you will be warmly welcomed by your driver-guide, who will assist with immigration and luggage before transferring you to your hotel, just 15–20 minutes away. After settling in, enjoy a gentle introduction to the city with a visit to the Independence Monument, a proud symbol of Burundi’s sovereignty. Explore the bustling Central Market, where the vibrant colors of woven baskets, handmade crafts, and fresh produce create a rich sensory experience. Continue to the Livingstone–Stanley Monument at Mugere on the tranquil shores of Lake Tanganyika, commemorating the historic meeting of these legendary explorers in 1871. As the sun sets, relax with a peaceful stroll along Saga Beach before enjoying dinner at Le Café Gourmand or Tanganika Blue Bay Resort, sampling freshly grilled Mukeke fish and other local specialties.

After breakfast, depart for Rusizi National Park, located just 20 minutes from the city center. Embark on a guided game drive through sandy tracks, spotting hippos lounging in the river, crocodiles gliding silently, sitatungas grazing along the banks, and a kaleidoscope of bird species. A boat ride along the Rusizi River allows for closer wildlife encounters, offering excellent photography opportunities. Return to Bujumbura for lunch before spending the afternoon immersed in Burundi’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to the National Museum or Geological Museum. The highlight of the day is an Intore drumming performance, where the powerful rhythms and intricate dance moves showcase a UNESCO-recognized tradition. Conclude the day with dinner at the Belvedere Restaurant, offering sweeping views of Bujumbura at night.

After breakfast, depart for Gitega, the political heart of Burundi, a scenic 2.5-hour drive through rolling hills and banana plantations. Upon arrival, visit the Gitega National Museum, home to the largest collection of Burundian cultural artifacts, including royal regalia, traditional drums, and ethnographic displays. Just outside the city, the Gishora Drum Sanctuary awaits, where you will witness an extraordinary drumming performance and learn about the central role of drums in Burundian culture and royal ceremonies. Overnight at Tropitel Gitega Hotel, where you can enjoy the quiet charm of the highlands and reflect on the day’s cultural insights.

Begin the day with a scenic drive to Rutana Province to explore the spectacular Karera Waterfalls. The four cascading falls, surrounded by lush vegetation, provide opportunities for short hikes, photography, and peaceful contemplation. Continue to Rutovu to visit the Source of the Nile, marked by a modest pyramid monument celebrating this geographic marvel. Enjoy a picnic lunch amid the serene surroundings before embarking on the scenic four-hour drive back to Bujumbura. Spend the evening at leisure, dining lakeside while enjoying the cool breeze from Lake Tanganyika.

Start the morning with a leisurely breakfast and free time to relax along Saga Beach or at your hotel’s pool. Optional activities include kayaking, short boat cruises on Lake Tanganyika, or a final visit to the Village Market to purchase handwoven baskets, Burundian coffee, and colorful textiles. After lunch, transfer overland to the Burundi–DR Congo border, continuing on to Goma in eastern Congo. Upon arrival, settle into Mikeno Lodge, nestled within the lush montane forests of Virunga National Park, and enjoy scenic views of volcanic peaks and Lake Kivu.

Rise early for a full-day adventure in Virunga National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife sanctuaries. Embark on a guided trek through dense bamboo and tropical rainforest to encounter a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat. Observe these magnificent creatures as they groom, play, and interact within their social groups, gaining a profound understanding of their behavior and the importance of conservation efforts. After the hour-long encounter, return to Mikeno Lodge for a chance to relax and reflect on this once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.

Prepare for an exhilarating full-day hike up Nyiragongo Volcano, an active giant rising to 3,470 meters. Trek through lush forests that gradually give way to barren volcanic slopes, witnessing a dramatic transformation in the landscape. At the summit, marvel at the world’s largest permanent lava lake and watch the molten lava glow under the night sky. Spend the night in basic crater rim shelters, surrounded by the surreal, fiery beauty of the volcanic landscape—an unforgettable immersion in nature’s raw power.

Descend from Nyiragongo at sunrise, capturing breathtaking views of the glowing lava and surrounding landscapes. Transfer to Lake Kivu and take a short boat ride to Tchegera Island, a serene volcanic island renowned for its scenic beauty and abundant birdlife. Spend the afternoon kayaking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in your comfortable tented camp, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and watching the sun set over the shimmering waters.

Enjoy a full day of leisure on Tchegera Island. Swim in the lake, paddleboard, and hike nature trails, or simply relax amidst the volcanic scenery. The peaceful island environment allows time for reflection and photography, offering a slower-paced counterpoint to the adventures of previous days. As the sun dips below the horizon, savor a quiet evening surrounded by the island’s natural beauty.

On your final day, return to the mainland for a cultural visit to local communities near Virunga National Park. Engage with coffee farmers and artisans, gaining insight into how their livelihoods intertwine with conservation efforts and local traditions. Afterward, transfer to Goma International Airport for your onward flight, departing with unforgettable memories of Burundi’s rich culture, Lake Tanganyika, Virunga’s mountain gorillas, Nyiragongo Volcano, and the tranquil beauty of Lake Kivu.