After breakfast, enjoy a 3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park. Passing through Musanze lively town blends modern amenities with traditional Rwandan charm. Amidst the forested slopes of the Virungas forming a dramatic setting for the most poignant and memorable wildlife experience of a lifetime gorilla trekking awaits you.

Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park protects the steep slopes of this magnificent mountain range and is home to the endangered mountain gorilla and a rich mosaic of montane ecosystems, which embrace evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp and heath.

Volcanoes National Park is named after the chain of dormant volcanoes making up the Virunga Massif: Karisimbi – the highest at 4,507m, Bisoke with its verdant crater lake, Sabinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation Options

Mid-range Level: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Luxury Level: Volcanoes Virunga Lodge

After breakfast at the lodge, your adventure begins with a drive to the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park. Here, you’ll meet your expert ranger guides and fellow explorers, all buzzing with anticipation.

Following a briefing on trekking etiquette and conservation efforts, you’ll be grouped with up to 8 trekkers and assigned to a specific gorilla family, ensuring an intimate and respectful wildlife encounter.

Your trek begins as you venture through diverse landscapes, from open fields and terraced hillsides to dense bamboo forests and lush undergrowth. The duration of the trek varies from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location within the park.

Then, the moment of awe arrives—face-to-face with a mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat. You’ll have one magical hour to observe their interactions, from playful juveniles to nurturing mothers and dominant silverbacks.

After this life-changing encounter, you’ll trek back to the park’s base and return to your lodge, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s extraordinary experiences.

Optional Evening Activity

Today, visit the Gorilla Guardian Village (formerly Iby’Iwacu) for cultural performances, including the iconic Intore dance, and explore the king’s palace. Experience a unique ceremony where you can briefly take on the king’s role, guided by local elders. You’ll also have the chance to learn Rwandan drumming, visit a traditional healer, or interact with the Batwa community.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation Options

Mid-range Level: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Luxury Level: Volcanoes Virunga Lodge

Begin your day breakfast before heading to the briefing point for an unforgettable golden monkey trekking experience. These charming primates are native to the Virunga regions of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, two habituated troops reside, with the larger troop in the Sabyinyo volcano area boasting 80 to 100 members, making it a popular attraction for visitors.

Golden monkeys are relatively easy to locate as they dwell at the base of the volcanoes within lush bamboo forests. Trackers follow the trail of fresh bamboo shoots and leaves to pinpoint their exact location. Once found, you’ll have a precious hour to observe these vibrant primates up close, witnessing their playful antics and intriguing behaviors in their natural habitat.

After this exhilarating encounter, enjoy lunch before continuing to Lake Kivu arriving in time for relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation Options

Mid-range Level: Kivu Lodge

Luxury Level: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast, you'll be driven to Lake Kivu, where you’ll partake a scenic boat ride to Amahoro and Munini Islands, also known as Napoleon Island for its resemblance to Napoleon's hat. The island is home to a large colony of fruit bats, which you can encounter after a short, easy climb. You'll also spot giant African millipedes, fish eagles, and a variety of water birds.. After this experience, drive back to your hotel for some relaxation at the lodge and lunch.

Optional Activities:

• Kayaking and Water Sports across the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
• Explore Nyamirundi Island with its Coffee Plantation

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation Options

Mid-range Level: Kivu Lodge

Luxury Level: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

After breakfast, check out and meet your driver-guide for the journey back to Kigali, Rwanda’s capital.

If time allows before your flight, visit the National Museum in Kigali, including Kandt’s House, the former residence of Dr. Richard Kandt, now part of the Natural History Museum. Explore artifacts showcasing Rwanda’s pre-colonial heritage, colonial history, and the country’s journey to independence. Gain insight into Rwanda’s cultural resilience and nation-building efforts.

Your Rwanda Gorilla Trek and Lake Kivu Safari concludes with a drop-off at the airport.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch