Great Lakes Circuit — Burundi, Rwanda & DRC Explorer
Three countries, gorillas, volcanoes, lakes & drummers in 8 epic days
Tour Overview
This 8-day Great Lakes circuit explores three of Africa's most fascinating countries in one extraordinary journey. Start in Kigali, Rwanda with mountain gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park — coming face-to-face with a silverback in the misty bamboo forests. Cross to Goma, DRC for the awe-inspiring Nyiragongo lava lake overnight — one of the planet's most dramatic natural spectacles. Continue south to Bujumbura, Burundi for Lake Tanganyika's golden beaches, a Rusizi delta hippo safari, and the thundering UNESCO Royal Drummers performance at Gishora. This is one of Africa's most adventurous multi-country itineraries — three cultures, three landscapes, and three unforgettable experiences packed into one seamless trip.
Your Journey
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Welcome at Kigali Airport. City tour including the Genocide Memorial. Welcome dinner at a Kigali restaurant.
Tonight's Stay
Hotel, Kigali
Drive to Volcanoes National Park. Morning gorilla trekking through bamboo forests to meet a habituated gorilla family. Afternoon at leisure or optional golden monkey tracking.
Tonight's Stay
Lodge, Musanze
Border crossing to DRC. Goma city orientation. Prepare for tomorrow's volcano climb.
Tonight's Stay
Hotel, Goma
Full-day climb of Nyiragongo Volcano (3,470m). Camp at the summit crater rim overlooking the world's largest lava lake — a mesmerising sight after dark.
Tonight's Stay
Summit camp
Morning descent from Nyiragongo. Cross into Burundi and transfer to Bujumbura. Evening relaxation at your lakeside hotel.
Tonight's Stay
Lakeside hotel, Bujumbura
Morning boat safari at Rusizi National Park — hippos, crocodiles, and spectacular birdlife. Afternoon beach time on Lake Tanganyika with sunset dinner.
Tonight's Stay
Lakeside hotel, Bujumbura
Drive to Gishora Drum Sanctuary for a UNESCO Royal Drummers performance. Visit the Gitega National Museum. Return to Bujumbura for farewell dinner.
Tonight's Stay
Lakeside hotel, Bujumbura
Leisure morning. Transfer to Bujumbura airport (or overland to Kigali). End of an extraordinary three-country adventure.
8 Days of Unforgettable Moments
20 curated activities across 5 unique stays
Interactive Route Map
What's Included
- 7 nights accommodation
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Nyiragongo volcano permit
- All meals
- All transfers & border crossing assistance
- Expert guides in each country
Not Included
- International flights
- Visa fees (3 countries)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
How to Get There
Fly to Kigali International Airport (KGL). End in Bujumbura (BJM) — or we arrange return transfer to Kigali.
Best Time to Visit
June–September (dry season across all three countries). Gorilla trekking and volcano climbing are best in dry conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting from
$4,500
per person sharing
No booking fees · Free cancellation up to 30 days
Ideal For
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