+254 718 002012 Nairobi, Kenya

Rwanda Gorilla trekking Safari

8 DAYS FROM USD 7,450 PER PERSON

Mountain gorilla in Volcanoes National Park

An Intimate Encounter with Mountain Gorillas

This unforgettable 8-day journey takes you deep into Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park for intimate encounters with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Trek through lush rainforests to observe these magnificent primates, learn about conservation efforts and experience Rwanda's remarkable culture and landscapes.

Gorilla Trekking

Spend unforgettable hours with mountain gorilla families in their natural habitat

Golden Monkeys

Track playful golden monkeys in the bamboo forests

Cultural Experiences

Visit local communities and learn about Rwanda's remarkable recovery

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Tour Itinerary

8 Days of Unforgettable Primate Encounters

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Welcome to Rwanda! Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you'll be met by our representative and transferred to your boutique hotel in the city. After some time to refresh, enjoy a guided tour of Kigali including the moving Genocide Memorial, which provides powerful insight into Rwanda's history and remarkable recovery.

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at one of Kigali's finest restaurants featuring Rwandan cuisine with modern influences.

Accommodation: The Retreat (Luxury) or similar

Day 2: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, depart for Volcanoes National Park (approximately 2.5 hours). The scenic drive takes you through Rwanda's beautiful terraced hillsides, with views of the Virunga volcanoes in the distance.

Arrive at your luxury lodge in time for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn about gorilla conservation efforts. Enjoy dinner at the lodge with views of the volcanoes.

Accommodation: Bisate Lodge (Luxury) or similar

Day 3: First Gorilla Trekking Experience

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park

An early start for the highlight of your Rwanda experience - gorilla trekking. After breakfast and briefing at park headquarters, set out with your guide and trackers to find one of the park's habituated gorilla families.

The trek can take from 30 minutes to several hours through dense forest, depending on the gorillas' location. Once found, you'll spend an unforgettable hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon at leisure to relax after your trek.

Accommodation: Bisate Lodge (Luxury) or similar

Day 4: Second Gorilla Trekking Experience

Gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park

Today offers another opportunity to trek to a different gorilla family, allowing you to observe different behaviors and group dynamics. Each gorilla family has its own unique characteristics, and encountering a second group provides deeper insight into their social structures.

After your trek, visit a local community project supported by your lodge, learning about conservation efforts and community development initiatives in the area.

Accommodation: Bisate Lodge (Luxury) or similar

Day 5: Golden Monkey Trek & Cultural Experience

Golden monkey in Volcanoes National Park

This morning, embark on a golden monkey trek in Volcanoes National Park. These playful, endangered primates are a delight to observe as they leap through the bamboo forest. In the afternoon, visit the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about traditional Rwandan life through dance, crafts, and storytelling.

Accommodation: Bisate Lodge (Luxury) or similar

Day 6: Volcano Hike & Lake Kivu

Choose between a gentle nature walk or a more challenging hike up one of the Virunga volcanoes (optional). After lunch, transfer to Lake Kivu (approximately 2 hours), Rwanda's largest lake. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and relax at your lakeside lodge.

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (Luxury) or similar

Day 7: Lake Kivu Relaxation

A day to relax and reflect on your gorilla experiences. Enjoy optional activities such as kayaking, cycling along the lake shore, or visiting nearby coffee plantations. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with Rwandan entertainment.

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (Luxury) or similar

Day 8: Return to Kigali & Departure

After breakfast, return to Kigali (approximately 3 hours). Depending on your flight time, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or visits to local artisans. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of Rwanda's mountain gorillas.

Meals: Breakfast

Featured Accommodations

Luxury Lodges & Hotels

The Retreat

Kigali, Rwanda

An urban oasis in Rwanda's capital, The Retreat offers luxurious villas with private gardens, a spa, and exceptional dining. The property combines modern comforts with Rwandan design elements.

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Bisate Lodge

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Six luxurious forest villas inspired by traditional Rwandan royal residences, each with stunning views of the volcanoes. The lodge is deeply committed to conservation and community projects.

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Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Lake Kivu, Rwanda

Set on the shores of Lake Kivu, this elegant hotel offers beautiful lake views, a swimming pool, and spa facilities. The perfect place to relax after gorilla trekking adventures.

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What's Included

Everything You Need for an Unforgettable Gorilla Safari

Inclusions

All airport transfers in Rwanda
4 nights luxury accommodation at Bisate Lodge
1 night at The Retreat in Kigali
2 nights at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Two gorilla trekking permits (USD 1,500 each)
Golden monkey trekking permit
Services of professional English-speaking guides
Park fees and conservation fees
Bottled water in vehicles
Cultural village visit
Lake Kivu boat ride

Exclusions

International flights
Travel insurance
Rwanda visa fees
Optional activities (volcano hike, etc.)
Gratuities for guides and lodge staff
Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, etc.)
COVID-19 testing if required

Important Notes

Single supplement applies for solo travelers
Minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years
Gorilla trekking requires moderate fitness level
Yellow fever vaccination required
Malaria prophylaxis recommended
Porter hire available for treks (extra cost)

Pricing & Dates

2025 Scheduled Departures

Low Season

April - May, November

$7,450 per person sharing

Best value pricing
Fewer crowds
Lush green landscapes
Comfortable temperatures

High Season

June - October

$8,950 per person sharing

Peak wildlife viewing
Drier trekking conditions
Best photography light
Comfortable daytime temperatures

Shoulder Season

December - March

$8,250 per person sharing

Balanced pricing
Fewer tourists
Beautiful sunsets
Comfortable trekking conditions

Single supplement available at $1,850. Private departures and custom dates available year-round.

Gallery

Experience the Journey Through Images

Mountain Gorilla

Virunga Volcanoes

Kigali City

Golden Monkey

Rwanda's Landscape

Lake Kivu Sunset

Traveler Experiences

What Our Guests Say

"The gorilla trekking experience was beyond words - looking into the eyes of a silverback gorilla just meters away was profoundly moving. Having two treks allowed us to see different families with unique dynamics. Bisate Lodge was the perfect luxurious base after our forest adventures."

Sir Baron and Catherine

From London, UK

"Rwanda surprised us with its beauty and cleanliness. The gorilla treks were challenging but worth every step when we found the families. Our guide's knowledge of each gorilla's personality made the experience deeply personal. Lake Kivu was the perfect place to unwind afterwards."

Lucy and Emily

From New York, USA

"As a solo traveler, I was initially nervous about the gorilla trek but the guides were incredibly supportive. The group dynamics were wonderful - I made friends from around the world. The logistics were seamless, making my first African trip completely stress-free."

Jennifer Carter

From Vancouver, Canada

"As wildlife photographers, this itinerary delivered everything we hoped for. The two gorilla treks gave us multiple opportunities to capture different behaviors and family interactions. The golden monkeys were an unexpected bonus - so photogenic! The lodges were perfect for reviewing our shots each evening."

Thomas and Lisa

From Sydney, Australia

"We celebrated our anniversary with this trip and it exceeded all expectations. The gorillas were magnificent, but we were equally touched by Rwanda's people and their remarkable story of recovery. The Retreat in Kigali was particularly special - such attention to detail!"

Robert and Maria

From Madrid, Spain

"Our family of four (with two teenagers) had an incredible time. The gorilla treks were challenging but our kids did great. The cultural village visit gave important context to Rwanda's history. Lake Kivu was perfect for relaxing after the treks. A truly educational and unforgettable family experience."

The Johnson Family

From Cape Town, South Africa

Ready for Your Gorilla Adventure?

Contact our safari specialists today to book your Rwanda Gorilla trekking Safari or to customize this itinerary to your preferences.

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