4 Days Rwanda Gorilla & Golden Monkey Trekking

Overview – 4 Days Rwanda Gorilla & Golden Monkey Trekking

This 4-day Rwanda Gorilla & Golden Monkey Trekking safari starts and ends in Kigali. It includes one gorilla permit for Volcanoes National Park, where gorilla trekking in Rwanda costs USD 1,500. This experience offers you a rare chance to encounter some of the remaining 1,063 mountain gorillas in the world. You also have the option to trek gorillas a second time or explore other exciting activities, including golden monkey trekking, hiking Mount Bisoke, or visiting Dian Fossey’s grave.
Volcanoes National Park hosts ten habituated gorilla families, and trekking through the Afro-montane forest gives you unforgettable close-up moments with these gentle giants. This short yet powerful safari combines culture, wildlife, and majestic landscapes, making it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Rwanda adventure.

Day 1: Kigali City Tour – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your driver-guide picks you up and takes you on a guided tour of Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest and fastest-growing capitals. You explore vibrant markets, modern neighborhoods, and Rwanda’s famous rolling hills.

Next, you visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a place of remembrance and learning for survivors and visitors from around the world. The exhibits share Rwanda’s history with dignity and sensitivity.

After the city tour, you continue to Volcanoes National Park. The park sits between 2,400m and 4,507m above sea level and forms part of the Virunga massif. It is widely known as the place where Dian Fossey conducted her groundbreaking gorilla research for nearly two decades.

Although day hikes can be strenuous, they offer remarkable rewards as you ascend through lush forest. Meeting mountain gorillas in their natural habitat counts among Africa’s most profound wildlife encounters.

Accommodation Options:

• Up-market: Mountain View Lodge
• Moderate: La Palme Hotel / Volcanoes Gorillas Hotel
• Budget: The Garden House
  Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking – Volcanoes National Park

After early breakfast, you drive to the Rwanda Development Board offices for a briefing. You then enter the forest for your gorilla trekking adventure. Your trek begins by moving through the foothills of the Virunga Mountains, where views stretch across volcanic peaks and green valleys.

When you enter the thick rainforest, you feel surrounded by wildlife. You hear birds calling, spot golden monkeys jumping in the canopy, and see signs of buffalo or elephant movement.

Gorilla trekking often involves steep climbs and muddy paths, but the reward outweighs the effort. When you find the gorilla family, you spend one magical hour observing them. You watch adults feed and relax while young gorillas play and swing from vines.

This moment stays with you forever—an intimate encounter with one of the world’s most endangered species.

Accommodation Options:

• Up-market: Mountain View Lodge
• Moderate: La Palme Hotel / Volcanoes Gorillas Hotel
• Budget: The Garden House
  Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Optional Activities – Volcanoes National Park

Today, you choose from a variety of exciting activities (some may require an extra fee):

Optional Activities Include:

• A second gorilla trek (requires an additional permit paid at booking)
• Golden Monkey trekking
• Hike Mount Bisoke or Mount Muhavura
• Trek to Dian Fossey’s grave
• Visit a local school or community project
• Walk to Lake Burera for scenic views

Each option gives you a deeper understanding of the park and its surrounding communities.

Accommodation Options:

• Up-market: Mountain View Lodge
• Moderate: La Palme Hotel / Volcanoes Gorillas Hotel
• Budget: The Garden House
  Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Kigali City Tour – Departure

After breakfast, you drive back to Kigali for a final city tour. You visit Kimironko Market, Inema Art Center, Kaplaki Craft Market, the Belgium Peacekeepers Memorial, and the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Each stop adds insight into Rwanda’s culture, creativity, and history.

You then enjoy lunch in Kigali before your driver transfers you to the airport for your flight home.

END OF TOUR