Safari Overview
Experience the Ultimate Rwanda on this 5-day Wildlife & Gorillas safari. This high-impact journey is designed to showcase the best of the Land of a Thousand Hills, from the emotional history of Kigali to the volcanic peaks of the Virunga Mountains.
You will dive deep into the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas and the rare golden monkeys. To push your boundaries, this itinerary includes a challenging hike to the crater lake summit of Mount Bisoke, making it an ideal choice for adventurous travelers seeking a blend of primate encounters and high-altitude trekking.
Safari Highlights
- Mountain Gorilla Trekking: A premier, life-changing encounter in the mist-shrouded Virungas.
- Golden Monkey Tracking: A playful, fast-paced session with these rare and colorful primates.
- Mount Bisoke Hike: Summit an ancient volcano (3,711m) to see its stunning Crater Lake.
- Kigali City & Memorial: Pay your respects at the Kigali Genocide Memorial and explore the vibrant capital.
Detailed Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to the Volcanoes Foothills
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by your driver-guide. After a short briefing, you will embark on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Kinigi, located at the foothills of the Volcanoes National Park.
- Accommodation: Gorilla Nest Lodge (Luxury) / Le’ Bambou Gorilla Lodge (Comfort) / Kinigi Guest House (Standard)
- Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: The Ultimate Gorilla Encounter
Rise early for a briefing at the park headquarters. You will be assigned to a gorilla family and, led by expert rangers, begin your trek into the forest.
Travel Note: The trek can last between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, you will have one hour to observe, photograph, and connect with these majestic apes in their natural wild habitat.
- Accommodation: Gorilla Nest Lodge / Le’ Bambou Gorilla Lodge / Kinigi Guest House
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking & Twin Lakes
Return to the park for a different kind of primate experience. The Golden Monkeys are highly active and live in the bamboo forests at the base of the volcanoes. Following the trek, enjoy an afternoon excursion to the picturesque Twin Lakes (Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo) for breathtaking photography and relaxation.
- Accommodation: Gorilla Nest Lodge / Le’ Bambou Gorilla Lodge / Kinigi Guest House
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Summiting Mount Bisoke (3,711m)
Today is dedicated to a physical challenge: hiking Mount Bisoke. This dormant volcano features a spectacular Crater Lake at the summit.
Travel Note: This is a 6–7 hour round-trip hike through steep and often muddy terrain. Reaching the top offers one of the most rewarding views in East Africa, overlooking the vast Virunga chain.
- Accommodation: Gorilla Nest Lodge / Le’ Bambou Gorilla Lodge / Kinigi Guest House
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Kigali City Tour & Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Kigali. You will visit the Genocide Memorial Center at Gisozi, a moving place of remembrance that provides essential context to Rwanda’s journey of healing. Following a city tour and a farewell lunch, your guide will transfer you to the airport for your departure.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Tour Inclusions & Exclusions
| Category | Inclusions (What is Included) | Exclusions (What is NOT Included) |
| Permits | 1 Gorilla Permit ($1,500) & Golden Monkey Permit | International Airfares |
| Transport | 4×4 Safari Vehicle with pop-up roof & Fuel | Rwanda Entry Visa |
| Staff | Professional English-speaking Guide/Driver | Tips and Gratuities for rangers and staff |
| Activities | Mount Bisoke Hiking Fees & Kigali City Tour | Porter fees for trekking ($10–$20) |
| Accommodation | Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) | Personal Travel & Medical Insurance |
| Refreshments | Bottled drinking water throughout the safari | All expenses of a personal nature (Laundry, Drinks) |
Quick Facts
- Location: Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans), Rwanda.
- Key Species: Mountain Gorillas, Golden Monkeys.
- Trekking Tip: Rwanda offers the shortest transfer time from an international airport to a gorilla park (only 2.5 hours).
- Physical Level: High (Mount Bisoke is a strenuous hike; gorilla trekking can be challenging).
- Expert Insight: Booking Rwanda Gorilla Permits at least 4–6 months in advance is essential as they are highly limited and in high demand.
