RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING ADVENTURE OVER VIEW
Encounter Gorillas in the Mist
Book this unforgettable 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari in Volcanoes National Park, where the ultimate gorilla trekking experience awaits you. Feel the thrill as you come face-to-face with majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
After an exhilarating encounter with these gentle giants, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Rwanda with a visit to the Gorilla Guardians Village. Here, you’ll connect with local traditions and stories that bring the spirit of Rwanda to life.
This short but powerful primate tour offers more than just wildlife encounters. It’s an opportunity to explore breathtaking landscapes, experience the warmth of local communities, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Discover the magic of Rwanda—where adventure meets wonder.
RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING ADVENTURE SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore the Vibrant Kimironko Market in Kigali
- Trek the Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park
- Engage with Rwandan Culture at Gorilla Guardians Village
- Stay in Handpicked, Eco-Friendly Option of Midrange or Luxury Accommodation
Day 1: Arrival at Kigali Airport
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Kigali, where you'll check in for an overnight stay to begin your Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Adventure.
Depending on the time of arrival, you will visit Kimironko Market Africa, the largest farmer's market in Kigali covering an area of about 5 kilometers. Kimironko market is a hub for local fresh food and fruits such as mangoes, passion fruits, pawpaw, jackfruits, and pineapples, among others.
The stalls at the market’s extreme are occupied majorly by meat sellers, chicken, and fresh fish.
Meal Plan: Dinner depending on time of arrival.
Accommodation Options
Mid-range Level: Lemigo Hotel
Luxury Level: The Retreat by Heaven
Day 2: Kigali - Volcanoes National Park
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
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking
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.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation Options
Mid-range Level: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Luxury Level: Volcanoes Virunga Lodge
Day 4: Gorilla Guardian Village and Transfer back to Kigali Airport
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.
Thereafter head back to Kigali arriving in time for lunch at the Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari. Depending on the time of your international flight you will be dropped at Kigali International Airport or make use of the day room for refreshment before departure
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
• Comfortable hiking boots and lightweight clothing.
• Rain jacket and a warm sweater for cooler evenings.
: Small, waterproof backpack for essentials
• Insect repellent and sunscreen.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Binoculars and a good camera.
• Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.
• Nature blending clothes
Included in the Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Adventure
- Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Landcruiser with gasoline/fuel
- Gorilla Trekking
- All Community Visits
- Drinking water / refillable water bottle
- English-speaking Guide
- Accommodation and Meals
- All Park Entrance Fees.
Excluded in the Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Adventure
- International Airfares;
- Visa Fees;
- Drinks and Beverages
- Tips, and Gratuities for your Driver/guide and hotel staff
- Optional activities unless specified as included
- Any other services not expressly shown in the itinerary or indicated as included.
Discover Rwanda: The Land of a Thousand Hills
Rwanda, often called the "Land of a Thousand Hills," is a captivating East African destination celebrated for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. This compact and easy-to-navigate country offers an exceptional blend of lush rainforests, rolling hills, and serene lakes. Its main attraction is the accessible gorilla trekking experience, making Rwanda a top choice for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Renowned for its commitment to conservation and sustainability, Rwanda stands as a global model in eco-tourism. The warm hospitality of its people invites travelers to explore the beauty and spirit of this remarkable nation.
Entry Requirements
Visa on Arrival: Nationals of all countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at Kigali International Airport and all land borders. Ensure your passport has at least two full blank pages for visas and stamps and is valid for more than six months from the date of entry.
Visa Waivers: Citizens of African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie member states are granted a visa upon arrival with a 90-day fee waiver. East African Community (EAC) member state citizens receive a six-month entry pass free of charge.
Visa Fees and Application: A single-entry visa costs US$50. Applications can be submitted online at Irembo or at Rwandan diplomatic missions. Payment can be made online or upon arrival.
Visa Exemptions:
- East African Countries: Tanzania, Kenya, South Sudan, Uganda, Burundi.
- La Francophonie Member States: Senegal, Côte d'Ivoire, DR Congo, Mali, Burkina Faso, Madagascar, Togo, Chad, Gabon, Mauritius, Seychelles, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Monaco, Romania, Haiti, Saint Lucia, Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Tahiti.
- Commonwealth Member States: Short stays (up to 90 days) are visa-free for citizens of Commonwealth countries, including the UK, Canada, and Australia.
East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV)
The East Africa Tourist Visa allows travel between Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda with multiple entries within 90 days for US$100. Apply online at Irembo, upon arrival, or at diplomatic missions. If applied for in advance, the first entry must be through the issuing country.
Money and Spending
Rwanda’s currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF), but US Dollars (post-2006 bills only) or Euros are widely accepted. Exchange money in Kigali for the best rates. Credit cards (mainly MasterCard) are accepted at high-end hotels and restaurants in Kigali but rarely outside the capital.
Health and Medical Information
Vaccinations:
- Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory.
- Recommended: Tetanus, Cholera, Hepatitis A & B, and Malaria prophylaxis.
- Malaria: Precautions are essential. Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and consider antimalarial medication.
- General Health Tips: Drink bottled or boiled water and carry a basic first aid kit. Consult with a healthcare professional before traveling.
Best Time to Visit Rwanda: Month-by-Month Guide
- January & February: Dry season with hot days and cool evenings in high-altitude areas (Kigali, Lake Kivu, Volcanoes, and Nyungwe National Parks). Perfect for forest treks and safaris, but expect higher prices due to peak season.
- March to May: Rainy season with challenging trekking conditions. Ideal for birdwatching during the breeding season. Mid-May offers fewer crowds and better chances of securing last-minute gorilla trekking permits.
- June to September: The best time to visit Rwanda due to dry, mild weather. Perfect for gorilla trekking. Highlights include the Kwita Izina Ceremony (June) and the Rwanda Film Festival (September). Book early as this is peak travel season.
- October to December: Short rainy season with brief showers and clear skies. Enjoy more affordable gorilla trekking permits and accommodation rates. Ideal for travelers seeking quieter parks and lower prices.
