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DRC II

Fri, 4 Feb 2022 – Sat, 12 Feb 2022

9 Days 8 Nights

About this expedition

DRC is back! We repacked this Wander Expedition classic with it's two smaller neighbours to offer the most value in this East African Expedition. One week where we will track gorillas in Congo's rainforests, explore the deadly Lake Kivu, and the lively streets of Bukavu, a border town that packs a punch. We will kick it off in Kigali, Africa's most organized and cleanest capital, and enjoy the stunning Rwandan sceneries. Finally, we will end in Burundi, the biggest hidden gem in this part of the World with a series of underrated experiences that you can't miss!

Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali and Rwandan Hills.

  • In the morning we will explore Kigali, including the Gisozi Genocide Memorial and other main highlights of the cleanest city in Africa.
  • In the afternoon, we’ll drive out to Lake Kivu, and the border with DRC, enjoying the lush sceneries and villages along the way.
  • Overnight near the border.

Day 2: Bukavu and Primate Center

  • After breakfast, we take a boat to Bukavu, in South Kivu province, a 3h cruise where we will enjoy the beauty of Lake Kivu, often dubbed the deadliest lake in the World.
  • After lunch, we will visit a primate rehabilitation center in Bukavu, and explore this lively town.
  • Overnight in Bukavu.

Day 3: Gorillas

  • Today will be a day you'll forever remember! We will get to track mountain gorillas in Congo's rainforest of Kahuzi Biega.
  • Overnight in Bukavu. 

Day 4: Transfer to Bujumbura

  • In the morning, we'll leave DRC and drive out to Bujumbura in a journey that will take about 3-4h plus the border crossing.
  • The afternoon, we'll explore Burundi's biggest city including the Livingstone monument, the cathedral, markets and mingling with locals.
  • Overnight Bujumbura.

Day 5: Karera Waterfalls & Gishora Drummers

  • After breakfast we shall visit the source of the Nile. Shortly after, we'll head East towards Karera waterfalls.
  • Afterwards, we will drive to Gitega, the country's second biggest town and political capital. We will then explore Gishora, a drum sanctuary on the Royal Hill, where we will witness an impressive musical performance from the World famous Burundian Drummers.
  • Overnight in Gitega.

Day 6: Teza Tea Plantations & Kibira Nature Walk

  • Today, we drive to Teza to see the tea plantations, one of the main exports in Burundi.
  • Later, we will take a nature walk around Kibira National Park.
  • In the afternoon, we'll enjoy sunset by Lake Tanganyika in our hotel in Bujumbura.

Day 7: Bujumbura & Rusizi National Park

  • After breakfast we will visit Rusizi National Park, where we will explore the river on a boat trip safari to take a closer look at hippos, numerous species of birds and the meeting point between Rusizi River and Lake Tanganyika.
  • In the afternoon, we will drive back to Bujumbura to wander around the city and enjoy our last dinner together.
  • Overnight in Bujumbura.

Day 8: Fly out

  • It's the saddest moment on any Expedition: we say goodbye until the next time we see each other!

What's included

  • Gorilla Permit — Virunga NP charges around $500 for a gorilla tracking permit.
  • Hotels — Shared twin room in 4-star hotels (when available) on a bed and breakfast basis.
  • Guides — Expert local guide and fixer.
  • Transport — Private transport with driver.
  • Visa Support — We will take care of your visas so you can pay and pick it up on arrival.
  • Entrance Fees — All entrance fees to sites on your itinerary.

Things to know

HOW DO I GET A VISA FOR DRC, RWANDA AND BURUNDI?

We will take care of the visa for you so you can just pick it up on arrival at Goma International Airport. We just need a scanned copy of your passport for this and it will take a few weeks to process. The cost of the visa is around $100 and is not included (you will need to pay with cash on arrival). Rwanda is visa free for most destinations and Burundi is on arrival.

WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO GET THERE?

Wander Expedition doesn't book flights for you and is ultimately not responsible for your flight connection, but we can offer guidance and support when you research the best options for you. We will start from Kigali, and finish in Bujumbura. You will need to land a day earlier in Kigali to make sure we make the most of Day 1 and can start in the early morning.

ARE DRC, RWANDA AND BURUNDI SAFE?

DRC can be challenging to navigate, but will be accompanied by a local crew at all times, which will help us interact with locals and have the best possible experience. Rwanda and Burundi are very safe.

WHO IS THIS EXPEDITION FOR?

This Expedition is perfect for those seeking an adventure in the heart of Africa. The itinerary is one of our favorites, very balanced, with thrills to fill our days but enough comfort to enjoy our nights with our newfound travel family.

Traveler stories

5.0 126 reviews

Laurie

Laurie "Dublin"

15 expeditions 8 months ago

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The best way to see not only the Mt Hagen festival but also the highlights of the PNG highlands. Safe, exciting, and lots of fun.

Laurie

Laurie "Dublin"

15 expeditions 8 months ago

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A spiritual and cultural-focussed expedition, not the typical style of other Wander trips, but I absolutely loved it. Bhutan is beautiful and this expedition was the best way to see it, the tricky visa and tour guide requirements were all handled and the itinerary gave the very best of the country in a few days. Northern India was equally serene and even as someone who hates hiking, having a great group to champion you along the way made it fun.

Laurie

Laurie "Dublin"

15 expeditions 8 months ago

West Africa III

The best overland adventure you could ever ask for. Two weeks, 22 people, 6 cars, endless laughs. Sure, the days are long, and you definitely need to bring snacks, but it’s so much fun and the best way to see the parts of Africa that most people don’t go to! And it has everything - beach, nature, pool days, local communities, cities and middle-of-nowhere adventures. I’d even go as far as to say I’d do it again….. never say never!

Jose

Jose "Managua"

4 expeditions 8 months ago

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LOVED IT!

Mustafa

Mustafa

1 expedition 9 months ago

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My trip to Libya with you Wander Expeditions was unreal! Everything was super well organized, the group vibe was like family, and the guide kept things fun with stories and games along the way. Libya itself blew me away amazing people, amazing places, and good energy everywhere we went.

Laurent

Laurent

2 expeditions 11 months ago

Malta: Every Country Twice

A pure pleasure celebrating with Alvaro and the gang - vibes unbeatable & can’t wait for the next reunion!

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Experience unforgettable group trips with Wander Expeditions! Discover unique destinations while forming lasting connections. Our curated travel families ensure a fun, flexible, and fearless adventure for all.

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