3 Days Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

(4.7)

★★★★★ 4.7/5

$950

/pax

Overview

The 3-day Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Volcanoes National Park offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience one of the world’s most incredible wildlife encounters. Located in Rwanda, this park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Trek through the lush rainforest, discover other wildlife, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Virunga Mountains.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Morning:
- Arrive in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, and meet your guide for a briefing on your gorilla trekking adventure. Afterward, embark on a scenic 2-3 hour drive through the beautiful Rwandan countryside to Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest of the country.
Afternoon:
- Arrive at your lodge near the park, where you’ll have time to check in and enjoy lunch. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure or visit nearby attractions like the Iby'iwacu Cultural Village to learn about the local Rwandan culture.
Evening:
- Have dinner at your lodge and rest in preparation for the exciting gorilla trek the next day.

Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Morning:
- After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing by park rangers. You’ll be assigned a gorilla family to track and given important instructions for the trek. The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas.
- Venture into the dense forest, following your guide as you hike through challenging but beautiful terrain. The experience of encountering a gorilla family in their natural habitat is truly magical. Spend up to one hour with the gorillas, observing their behaviors and interactions.
Afternoon:
- After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. The rest of the afternoon can be spent at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a nature walk or visiting the Dian Fossey Museum to learn more about her gorilla conservation work.
Evening:
- Enjoy dinner at your lodge and reflect on the incredible experience of gorilla trekking.

Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Return to Kigali

Morning:
- After breakfast, you have the option to go on a golden monkey trek in the park. This activity allows you to see the lively and beautiful golden monkeys, another endangered species that inhabit the Virunga Mountains. The trek is easier than the gorilla trek and offers a great opportunity to explore more of the park’s wildlife.
Late Morning:
- After the golden monkey trek, check out of your lodge and begin the return journey to Kigali. En route, you can stop at local markets or visit the Genocide Memorial Centre to learn about Rwanda’s history.
Afternoon:
- Arrive in Kigali in the afternoon, where your guide will drop you off at your hotel or at the airport for your departure.

Included

Transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle
Gorilla trekking permit
Accommodation for 2 nights near Volcanoes National Park
Professional trekking guide
Golden monkey trekking permit (optional)
Pick-up and drop-off in Kigali

Excluded

Important Notes:

The gorilla trekking permit is mandatory and included in the package cost. Be prepared for a physically challenging trek, as the terrain can be steep and uneven.
Ensure you bring sturdy hiking boots, a rain jacket, long pants, and gloves for the trek, as the weather can be unpredictable.