This 3-day tour showcases the two most popular attractions of Volcanoes National Park: mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. It is ideal for solo travelers, groups, honeymooners, and families seeking a memorable wildlife experience. The trip takes you to Rwanda’s most iconic national park, offering close encounters with rare primates in a breathtaking volcanic landscape.
You will be picked up from the airport or your hotel in Kigali and begin your journey
with a guided Kigali City Tour. Explore key landmarks, including cultural sites, local
markets, and the Kigali Genocide Memorial, gaining insight into Rwanda’s history and
vibrant present. After the city tour, you will drive north through Rwanda’s scenic
countryside to Volcanoes National Park. Enjoy rolling hills, rural villages, and beautiful
landscapes along the way before arriving at your lodge for check-in, dinner, and an
overnight stay, preparing for the next day’s primate trekking adventure.
Early in the morning, after breakfast, you will be picked up from the lodge with your
packed lunch and driven to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking
etiquette. You will then begin your mountain gorilla trek, an unforgettable experience in
their natural habitat. After the trek, you will return to the lodge for a hot lunch. Later in
the afternoon, enjoy a guided visit to the scenic twin lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo. You
will then return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Early in the morning, your driver-guide will pick you up from the lodge and take you to
the park headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey trekking etiquette. You will then
trek through their natural habitat, enjoying close encounters and opportunities for
photography. After the experience, you will drive back to Kigali, stopping at a well
known local restaurant for lunch. Upon arrival, you will be dropped off at your hotel,
residence, or the airport for your onward flight.
Our trips are unashamedly high-end but always deliver excellent value for money. Our guide price covers the majority of trip costs upfront, on a per person basis, including all transfers.
Both gorilla and golden monkey trekking take place in Volcanoes National Park, located in northern Rwanda. The park is part of the Virunga Mountains and is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning volcanic scenery.
Mountain gorilla trekking can range from moderate to challenging depending on the gorilla family’s location. Golden monkey trekking is generally less strenuous and often shorter in duration. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended for both activities.
Yes, permits are required for both experiences and are typically arranged in advance as part of your tour package. Gorilla permits are limited and should be booked early due to high demand.
Visitors are allowed to spend one hour with mountain gorillas once located, maintaining a minimum distance of 7 meters for safety and conservation purposes. Golden monkey encounters also follow strict wildlife guidelines to protect the animals
You should pack waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved clothing, a light rain jacket, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a camera (without flash). Hiring a porter at the park is also recommended to assist with carrying your gear during the hike.
Tell us your outline travel plans and one of our experts will be in touch within one working day.
