3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Description

This 3-day safari offers an incredible opportunity to experience two of Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife encounters—mountain gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking in the heart of the majestic Volcanoes National Park. Starting and ending in Kigali, this short but powerful adventure begins with a scenic drive to Musanze, the park’s gateway town nestled among the Virunga Mountains.

The highlight of the tour is an unforgettable gorilla trekking expedition, where guests spend a magical hour in the company of a habituated gorilla family deep in the forest. The following day features a second primate experience—golden monkey trekking, a lively and colorful primate species found only in this region. With beautiful scenery, expert guiding, and seamless logistics, this safari is ideal for travelers short on time but seeking once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences in Rwanda.

Safari Highlights

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Golden Monkey Tracking
Dian Fossey Tomb Hike

DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION

Kigali International Airport

DEPARTURE TIME

Please arrive at least 2 hours before the flight

INCLUDED

Airport transfers	Accommodations
ground transportation in a 4×4 vehicle	Professional safari guide
All meals and drinks as indicated	Golden monkey trekking permit
Park entrance fees
Gorilla trekking permit

NOT INCLUDED

International flights	Travel insurance
Rwanda Visa fees	Activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Personal expenses (tips, beverages, laundry, souvenirs)

This package offers a blend of wildlife viewing and scenic drives. Nela Safaris can customize it to fit your preferences.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Musanze (Volcanoes National Park)

Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be met and welcomed by your safari driver-guide. After a short briefing, begin the scenic 2.5-hour drive to Musanze, the closest town to Volcanoes National Park. The route offers stunning views of rolling hills, rural countryside, and volcanic peaks. On arrival, check in at your chosen lodge and spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the local area. Dinner and overnight in Musanze.

Accommodation Options
Midrange: Sambora Kinigi
Budget: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking etiquette and assignment to a gorilla family. Accompanied by rangers and guides, hike through bamboo forest and dense vegetation until you locate the gorillas. Spend one unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat—a humbling and emotional wildlife encounter.

After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and a relaxing afternoon.
Optional cultural village visit in the evening. Dinner and overnight in
Musanze.

Accommodation Options
Midrange: Sambora Kinigi
Budget: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking – Return to Kigali

Begin your final day with a morning trek to see the golden monkeys, a playful and endangered primate species endemic to the Virunga Mountains. This trek is typically shorter and more active, with excellent photo opportunities as the monkeys leap through bamboo thickets. After the
experience, return to the lodge for refreshments and check out. Begin the drive back to Kigali, with optional stops at the Kigali Genocide Memorial or local artisan markets.

Drop-off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport in the late afternoon or evening.

Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Price:$3,230