4-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Golden Monkey Tracking Safari
Rwanda offers a diverse range of experiences beyond gorilla tracking. Explore Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, home to habituated chimpanzees, 12 other primate species, and a paradise for bird watchers. Enjoy a safari in Akagera National Park, hike or bike the Congo Nile Trail, immerse yourself in Rwandese culture in cultural villages, or relax at Lake Kivu.
The most popular destination is Volcanoes National Park, where you can track mountain gorillas and golden monkeys or embark on scenic hikes through its dramatic volcanic landscapes. This is also where Dian Fossey conducted her renowned studies on mountain gorillas—her grave can be visited within the park.
For a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s history, consider visiting genocide memorials, offering insight into the resilience and transformation of the country.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
- Meet and greet at Kigali International Airport, where your safari adventure begins.
- Transfer to your hotel and receive a briefing about your safari.
- Depending on your arrival time, you may visit Kigali’s craft markets, offering pottery, carvings, batik, weaving, sculptures, musical instruments, leather, and fabrics. (Shopping at your own cost—get ready to haggle!)
Journey Time: 15 minutes from the airport
Accommodation: Urban by CityBlue or Similar
Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
- After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park.
- Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes along the way, with an optional visit to cultural sites or local communities.
Journey Time: Approximately 2.5 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or Similar
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 3: Ultimate Gorilla Tracking Experience
- Early morning breakfast, followed by a transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing by the head ranger.
- You will be assigned to a gorilla tracking group based on interest and fitness levels.
- Hike through lush forests, bamboo thickets, and rugged terrain to locate one of the habituated gorilla families. Tracking time varies from 30 minutes to 8 hours, depending on the gorillas’ movement.
- Once you find them, spend a maximum of one hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat—an unforgettable and humbling experience.
- Return to your lodge for rest and relaxation.
Journey Time: 15 minutes by car; tracking time varies
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or Similar
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking & Transfer to Kigali
- After breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a golden monkey tracking experience. Unlike gorilla tracking, golden monkeys are agile and playful, making for a lively and rewarding encounter.
- Later, drive back to Kigali International Airport for your departure.
- If time allows (flight departing 5 p.m. or later), you may visit the Genocide Memorial and Education Centre—a moving tribute to the victims, featuring a poignant Children’s Memorial and a detailed historical exhibit.
Journey Time: 2 hours
Accommodation: Not included
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Note: If your flight departs earlier or if you need an additional night in Kigali, we can arrange accommodation upon request (not included in the package).
Tour Includes
- All ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional driver-guide
- Accommodation (based on per-person sharing)
- Park entrance fees
- Boat cruises & game drives
- 1 Gorilla trekking permit per person
- Bottled mineral water
Tour Excludes
• International flights & visas
• Travel insurance
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Personal expenses (drinks, tips, calls, etc.)
• Optional activities
