Tour Overview
Experience an unforgettable wildlife adventure on this 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari, a journey to the renowned Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Nestled within the breathtaking Virunga Mountains, the park offers one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters as you trek through mist-covered forests to spend a magical hour with a habituated gorilla family. Your safari also includes a guided Kigali City Tour, giving you the opportunity to discover Rwanda’s rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming people. This short itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic gorilla trekking experience combined with Rwanda’s scenic beauty and cultural heritage.
Tour Summary
- Day 1: Kigali City Tour & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
- Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience & Optional Cultural Visit
- Day 3: Return to Kigali & Departure
Tour Highlights
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Kigali City Tour
- Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Explore local craft markets
- Scenic drive
- Optional visit to the Iby’Iwacu (Gorilla Guardians) Cultural Village
Detailed Itinerary of 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
Day 1: Kigali City Tour & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport or your hotel, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional driver-guide, who will brief you on your safari before beginning a guided tour of Kigali. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you will gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s history and remarkable journey of reconciliation. Continue to local craft markets and artisan centers, where you can browse handmade souvenirs and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the capital.
After lunch, depart for Volcanoes National Park in Musanze District. The scenic drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, offering spectacular views of rolling hills, terraced farms, and traditional villages.
Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing while enjoying breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains.
Accommodation Options
- Budget: Muhabura Hotel
- Mid-range: Le Bamboo Gorilla Lodge
- Luxury: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Dinner and overnight at your lodge.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience & Optional Cultural Visit
After an early breakfast, transfer to the Kinigi Park Headquarters for registration and a briefing by experienced park rangers. During the briefing, you’ll receive important information about gorilla trekking regulations, conservation efforts, and safety guidelines before being assigned to a habituated gorilla family.
Accompanied by expert guides and trackers, begin your trek through the lush bamboo forests and volcanic slopes of Volcanoes National Park. Depending on the location of your assigned gorilla family, the trek may take between one and six hours.
Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat as they feed, groom, play, and interact. This remarkable encounter offers exceptional photography opportunities and is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest wildlife experiences.
After returning from the trek, enjoy lunch at your lodge. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit the Iby’Iwacu (Gorilla Guardians) Cultural Village, where you’ll experience traditional Rwandan music, dance, storytelling, and learn about the local communities living around the park.
Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3: Return to Kigali & Departure
Enjoy breakfast before checking out of your lodge and beginning the scenic drive back to Kigali. Along the way, admire Rwanda’s picturesque landscapes, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Upon arrival in Kigali, depending on your flight schedule, you may enjoy additional time exploring local craft markets or other attractions before your driver-guide transfers you to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight or to your hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable Rwanda gorilla trekking adventure.
End of 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
Safari Includes
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Park entrance fees
- Accommodation as per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Bottled drinking water during the safari
- Kigali city tour
- Government taxes and levies