Tour Overview

Experience the beauty of Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains on this exciting 2 Days Golden Monkey Trek, a safari that combines thrilling primate encounters with inspiring conservation experiences. This short adventure takes you to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered golden monkeys, one of Africa’s most fascinating and colorful primates.

Trek through the park’s lush bamboo forests in search of lively troops of golden monkeys, watching them leap effortlessly through the trees and forage on the forest floor. The journey also offers a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s remarkable conservation achievements through visits to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and the historic Dian Fossey Tomb and Karisoke Research Center, where one of the world’s greatest primatologists dedicated her life to protecting mountain gorillas.

Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, bird lovers, and conservation-minded travelers, this two-day safari offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, education, and breathtaking scenery.

Safari Highlights

  • Scenic drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park.
  • Golden monkey trekking in the Virunga Mountains.
  • Explore the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park.
  • Visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
  • Guided hike to the Dian Fossey Tomb and former Karisoke Research Center.
  • Spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes and Rwanda’s rolling countryside.
  • Opportunities for birdwatching and forest wildlife viewing.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali – Golden Monkey Trekking – Ellen DeGeneres Campus

Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Kigali or Kigali International Airport at approximately 4:30–5:00 AM. Meet your professional driver-guide before setting off on a scenic drive through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside toward Volcanoes National Park, a journey of approximately 2½ hours.

As the sun rises, enjoy spectacular views of Rwanda’s famous rolling hills, terraced farmland, rural villages, and the magnificent Virunga Volcanoes.

Upon arrival at the Kinigi Park Headquarters by 7:00 AM, you will register and attend a comprehensive briefing conducted by Rwanda Development Board (RDB) ranger guides. During the briefing, you’ll learn about golden monkey behavior, conservation efforts, trekking guidelines, and safety procedures before being assigned to a trekking group.

After a short drive to the trailhead, begin your guided hike through the park’s beautiful bamboo forests in search of the endangered golden monkeys. These lively primates are known for their striking golden-orange fur, playful personalities, and remarkable agility as they leap effortlessly through the bamboo canopy.

The trek typically lasts between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the monkeys’ location. Once the troop is found, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour observing their natural behaviors, including feeding, grooming, playing, and interacting within the family group. Their energetic movements and close proximity provide outstanding opportunities for wildlife photography.

Following the trek, return to Musanze for a relaxing lunch.

In the afternoon, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, an internationally recognized conservation and education center. Explore its interactive exhibits, research laboratories, conservation displays, and educational galleries that highlight mountain gorilla conservation, biodiversity, scientific research, and community outreach programs. The campus offers fascinating insight into the ongoing efforts to protect Rwanda’s endangered wildlife while continuing the conservation legacy established by Dr. Dian Fossey.

Later, transfer to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay near Volcanoes National Park.

Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park

Day 2: Dian Fossey Tomb Hike – Return to Kigali

After an early breakfast, return to the park headquarters for registration before beginning the guided hike to the Dian Fossey Tomb and former Karisoke Research Center, located between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke.

Accompanied by experienced ranger guides, hike through lush montane rainforest, bamboo forests, and volcanic vegetation while learning about the area’s unique ecology and the remarkable life of Dr. Dian Fossey. Along the trail, you may encounter colorful birds, butterflies, forest plants, and occasionally other wildlife that inhabits the Virunga ecosystem.

The hike typically takes 3 to 4 hours round trip, depending on trail conditions and your hiking pace.

Upon reaching the historic Karisoke Research Center, your guide will share the inspiring story of Dian Fossey’s groundbreaking research and her lifelong commitment to protecting mountain gorillas from poaching and habitat loss. Visit her final resting place, located beside several of the gorillas she devoted her life to protecting, and reflect on the extraordinary conservation legacy that continues to shape gorilla tourism and wildlife protection across the region.

After descending from the mountain, enjoy lunch before beginning your scenic drive back to Kigali.

Arrive in Kigali during the late afternoon, where your guide will transfer you to your hotel or Kigali International Airport, marking the end of your memorable 2 Days Golden Monkey Trek Rwanda.

Main Destination: Kigali

Tour Inclusions

  • Golden monkey trekking permit.
  • Dian Fossey Tomb hike permit.
  • Visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
  • Accommodation for one night.
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary.
  • Transportation in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle.
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
  • Park entrance fees and ranger guide services.
  • Bottled drinking water during transfers.
  • All activities mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Airport or hotel pick-up and drop-off

Tour Exclusions

  • International and domestic flights.
  • Rwanda visa fees (where applicable).
  • Travel and medical insurance.
  • Tips for guides, porters, and hotel staff.
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and optional activities not included in the itinerary.