Embarking on a 3 Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking Safari is a journey of discovery, learning, and connection with the natural world. This carefully curated itinerary combines thrilling encounters with the rare and endangered mountain gorillas and vibrant golden monkeys in their natural habitats, awe-inspiring landscapes, and a deep immersion into the vibrant culture of Rwanda. Nestled within the Virunga Mountains, this national park offers a one-of-a-kind experience for wildlife enthusiasts, adventurers, and anyone looking to witness the beauty of nature up close.
Safari Highlights:
- Gorilla Trekking.
- Golden Monkeys Tracking.
- Gorilla Guardian’s Village / Iby’wacu Cultural Experience.
Day 1: Pick Up – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Iby’wacu Cultural Experience.
Kickstart your gorilla trekking adventure with an exploration of Kigali. At 1000hrs, our driver guide will pick you up and embark on a scenic 2-3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park.
In the afternoon at 1400hrs, you’ll immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. Here, you have the chance to interact with the local community and learn about traditional Rwandan norms and customs as you enjoy performances of traditional dances and songs. The village tour also includes demonstrations of traditional medicine, basket weaving, and hunting techniques, offering a glimpse into the local way of life and Rwanda’s rich heritage. Upon arrival, you will check in to your lodge followed by an evening relaxation.
Dinner and overnight at One & Only Gorillas Nest (Luxury), Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel/Sambora Kinigi / Ingagi Parkview Lodge (Midrange), Classic Resort Lodge / Lalocanda Boutique Hotel (Budget)
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure – Evening at Leisure.
Our final day in Volcanoes National Park begins with rising early. You will fuel up with a hearty breakfast before heading to the park’s headquarters for a briefing by experienced park rangers about the guidelines on gorilla trekking. Equipped with trekking gear and excitement, you’ll embark on a guided journey through dense forests, bamboo groves, and hilly terrains. The trek varies between 2 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. Along the way, you encounter other fascinating wildlife, a wide array of bird species, and unique plant life that thrives in the volcanic soil. After navigating the forest, you’ll finally meet a family of mountain gorillas. During a one-hour interaction time permitted, you watch them play, feed, and rest, capturing memories that will last a lifetime. Observing these majestic creatures up close is a humbling experience as the gorillas’ expressive faces and close-knit family bonds leave a profound impression. Returning to our lodge, we unwind and share stories from the day over a delicious lunch, reliving each moment of the trek.
Dinner and overnight at One & Only Gorillas Nest (Luxury), Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel/Sambora Kinigi/Ingagi Parkview Lodge (Midrange), Classic Resort Lodge/Lalocanda Boutique Hotel (Budget)
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking – Departure.
Our final day in Volcanoes National Park begins with an exciting trek to see the golden monkeys. After breakfast at 07h00, you will transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing about Golden Monkeys Trekking code of conduct heading out to the Golden Monkey trails. These rare and lively primates are endemic to the Virunga Mountains, adding another layer of diversity to our wildlife experience. The golden monkeys are known for their playful nature and watching them leap from tree to tree is a joyous sight. This half-day trek offers a less strenuous but equally captivating exploration of the park’s biodiversity.
After our golden monkey trek, we will return to Kigali (2.5-3-hour drive). Depending on your time of Departure, you’ll bid farewell to Rwanda, taking with you, unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the wonders of Volcanoes National Park.
Included
1. All Permits and Entrance fees included in the itinerary.
2. All ground transportation in a 4WD Vehicle.
3. All other activities indicated in the itinerary.
4. All Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary.
5. English-speaking Experienced Safari guide.
6. Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
7. Refreshments and snacks in the vehicle.
Excluded
1. All Tips to Hotels/Lodges/Camps staff and Safari Guide.
2. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks that are not accompanying meals.
3. International flight/s and departure taxes and other taxes.
4. Visa fees. Visas are available online or upon arrival at all Entry points.