2-day Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking safari
- 1
- Nights
- 2
- Days
- Destinations
- Volcanoes · Kigali
Journey overview
Two days works here because Volcanoes National Park can be reached from Kigali in a few hours. The first day combines a city visit with the transfer north, and the second is almost entirely built around the gorilla trek before the drive back. It is a compressed itinerary for travellers whose schedule does not allow a slower stay around the park. Volcanoes National Park covers about 160 square kilometres within the wider Virunga Conservation Area. Karisimbi, Sabinyo, Muhabura, Bisoke and Gahinga are five of the eight main Virunga volcanoes, and the park also supports golden monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes and more than 178 bird species. Dian Fossey's research and anti-poaching work are closely tied to this landscape. The itinerary includes Kigali, the Gisozi Genocide Memorial and one gorilla trek. The $1,500 permit fee shown here should be reconfirmed for the intended travel date.
Key highlights
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
- Kigali city tour, including the Gisozi Genocide Memorial and local markets.
- Drive from Kigali through Rwanda’s northern hills to Volcanoes National Park.
- Trek on the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains.
- Look for golden monkeys and other forest wildlife in the wider park ecosystem.
Itinerary
2 days of guided travel, planned by our safari team from arrival to departure.
Kigali city tour - transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park
Use the first day for Kigali before heading north. Your guide will meet you at the airport or hotel, take you to the Gisozi Genocide Memorial and selected markets or cultural landmarks, then stop for lunch before the transfer. Volcanoes National Park is about 2 to 3 hours from Kigali by road. Once at the lodge, there is no need to add another activity; settle in and prepare for the early Kinigi briefing.
- Luxury
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, The 5 Volcanoes Lodge
- Mid-range
- Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
- Budget
- The Garden Place Hotel
Lunch · Dinner
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park - return to Kigali
Kigali
The trek day starts at Kinigi Park Headquarters with the 7:00 AM briefing. Rangers explain safety and trekking rules before leading you into the forest, and a porter can be hired for help with your daypack or difficult sections. The search can take 1 to 5 hours depending on the gorillas' location, with the permitted hour beginning once the family is found. From the trailhead, return to the lodge for lunch and then drive back to Kigali. The trip ends at your hotel or Kigali International Airport.
Breakfast · Lunch
Inclusions & exclusions
Included
- Gorilla trekking permit: $1,500 per person.
- Private transportation in a 4WD safari vehicle.
- Services of an experienced English-speaking guide.
- Accommodation as per the itinerary (luxury, mid-range, or budget options).
- Meals as specified in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
- Bottled drinking water during the safari.
- All park entry fees.
- Kigali city tour, including the Gisozi Genocide Memorial.
Not included
- International flights.
- Rwandan visa fees.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses.
- Travel insurance.
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