TOUR OVERVIEW
Embark on an unforgettable journey into the misty rainforests of Rwanda, home to one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on Earth—Mountain Gorilla Trekking. This 3-day safari takes you from the vibrant streets of Kigali to the lush slopes of Volcanoes National Park, where over 400 critically endangered gorillas roam freely in their natural habitat.
Led by expert guides/rangers, you’ll venture deep into the jungle for a once-in-a-lifetime face-to-face encounter with a gorilla family. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views, explore Rwandan culture through a Kigali city tour, visit the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, and immerse yourself in local life with a community walk. This tour blends conservation, culture, and breathtaking adventure into one perfect experience.
Gorilla trekking permits are included and valued at $1,500 per person.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Track endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
- Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving and insightful tribute to Rwanda’s resilience.
- Experience scenic views of the Virunga Volcanoes and Twin Lakes.
- Enjoy traditional Rwandan cuisine and culture.
- Explore local communities with optional cultural visits and performances.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your Hige Safaris guide. If time permits, you’ll embark on a guided city tour of Kigali, visiting historical landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and artisan craft shops.
After lunch in the city, enjoy a 2.5-hour scenic drive north through the rolling green hills of Rwanda—often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills”—to reach Volcanoes National Park, the gateway to the gorillas. Arrive in time to relax, check in, and enjoy dinner at your lodge.
Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park.
Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (or similar).
Meals: Lunch & Dinner.
Included: Drinking water, guided tour, airport transfer.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure & Twin Lakes Excursion
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing by park rangers, who will assign you a gorilla family group and guide your trek. Trekking can take 1 to 6 hours, depending on gorilla movement, and involves hiking through dense rainforest terrain—be sure to bring sturdy hiking gear!
Once you find the gorillas, spend a magical one hour observing them up close—a heart-pounding and humbling experience as you watch them feed, groom, and play. After trekking, return to the lodge for lunch and well deserved rest.
In the afternoon, choose between:
- A scenic visit to the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
- A community cultural walk to witness traditional Rwandan music, dance, and crafts
- Or simply relax and take in the serene mountain views at your lodge.
Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park.
Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge.
Meals: Bed, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (Full Board).
Included: Gorilla permit, ranger guide, cultural activities.
Day 3: Return to Kigali & Departure.
After a relaxing breakfast, begin your return journey to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a brief city stop for souvenir shopping at local artisan markets, or visit the Franco-Rwandan Cultural Centre or a local pottery project to support community initiatives.
Enjoy lunch in the city before transferring to the airport for your onward flight.
Main Destination: Kigali.
Accommodation: Not included (End of tour).
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Included: Transport, guide, drinking water.
What’s Included
- Gorilla trekking permit (\$1500 per person).
- All ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Accommodation as specified in itinerary.
- Full-board meals as indicated.
- Bottled water during Safari.
- English-speaking professional driver-guide.
- All park entry fees and activities.
What’s Not Included
- International flights.
- Rwanda visa fees.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Optional activities not included in the itinerary.
TRAVEL TIPS
- Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding; moderate fitness is recommended.
- Bring waterproof hiking boots, gloves, insect repellent, and a rain jacket.
- Photography is allowed, but flash is strictly prohibited when with gorillas.
- Permits are limited—book early to secure your space!
