Detailed Safari

Day 1: Drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

Your safari begins in Kigali, where your driver-guide welcomes you and immediately sets the pace with a scenic drive toward the Volcanoes region. Rwanda’s countryside is breathtaking, with endless green hills and farmlands leading to the mighty Virunga volcanoes. Arrive in the late afternoon, check in at your lodge, and settle into the peaceful highland surroundings. Enjoy dinner, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trek.

Accommodation options (Night 1):

• Budget: Kinigi Guest House
• Mid-range: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Luxury: Bisate Lodge

Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Volcanoes National Park

Start early with breakfast, then drive to the park headquarters for a briefing. After meeting your ranger guide, step into the forest for your gorilla trekking adventure. The hike varies in length depending on the gorilla family’s location, but the reward is extraordinary — a full hour with a gorilla family in their natural home. Watch the silverback’s calm authority, mothers nursing their babies, and juveniles full of energy. After your trek, return to the lodge for an afternoon of relaxation or optional cultural experiences around Kinigi.

Accommodation options (Night 2):

• Budget: Kinigi Guest House
• Mid-range: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Luxury: Bisate Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking & Afternoon Relaxation

After breakfast, head back to the park for golden monkey tracking. These endangered monkeys live in the bamboo forests at the base of the volcanoes, and the experience is lively and fun. Their high-energy movements make for fantastic photos as they leap from branch to branch. Golden monkey tracking is generally easier than gorilla trekking, making it perfect after the previous day’s hike. Return to your lodge for lunch and enjoy a quiet afternoon with stunning mountain views.

Accommodation options (Night 3):

• Budget: Kinigi Guest House
• Mid-range: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Luxury: Bisate Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Return to Kigali & Departure

After breakfast, check out and enjoy a relaxed drive back to Kigali. Depending on your schedule, you may stop for city exploration or shop for crafts before continuing to the airport or your next destination.

Accommodation: None (unless you request an extra night in Kigali)
Meal Plan: Breakfast

Best Time to Do the Safari

The dry months — June to September and December to February — offer the best trekking conditions, with easier trails and more predictable weather. However, both gorilla and golden monkey tracking are excellent all year, even during the wetter months when the forest looks more lush.

Estimated Cost per Person (Based on 6 People Sharing)

Note:

• Gorilla trekking permit costs USD 1,500 per person.
• Golden monkey permit costs USD 100 per person.
• Prices vary by lodge category and season.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is gorilla trekking compared to golden monkey tracking?
Gorilla trekking can be moderately strenuous because the gorillas move across steep terrain. Golden monkey tracking is lighter and often quicker.

Will I see both species for sure?
Gorilla sightings are almost guaranteed thanks to daily tracking by rangers. Golden monkey sightings are also extremely reliable.

What is the weather like in Volcanoes National Park?
Cool mornings and evenings, mild days, and possible rainfall throughout the year. Dressing in layers is helpful.

How close do I get to the gorillas?
You stay at least 10 meters away for their safety, but the experience still feels incredibly close and intimate.

Can I add more activities to this safari?
Yes. You can add a second gorilla trek, a hike to Dian Fossey’s research camp, a cultural village visit, or an extension to Lake Kivu.

What should I pack?
Light rain jacket, hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, gloves, gaiters, snacks, reusable water bottle, and a camera with good low-light ability.