Overview
Embark on a captivating 4-Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Tracking Adventure in Rwanda. Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is renowned for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. This 4-day itinerary focuses on experiencing the natural beauty and incredible wildlife of Rwanda, specifically the iconic mountain gorillas and the playful golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. This adventure promises unforgettable wildlife encounters and the opportunity to immerse yourself in Rwanda’s culture and hospitality.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your driver/guide and transferred to your hotel in Kigali for a brief rest. Enjoy breakfast before embarking on a city tour, including visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local markets for some cultural immersion. After lunch, drive to Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri, a journey of approximately 2.5-3 hours through scenic Rwandan countryside. Upon arrival, check into your lodge for dinner and an evening at leisure, preparing for the adventure ahead.
- Meals: Breakfast in Kigali, lunch in Kigali, dinner at the lodge
- Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or similar
- Driving Plan: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park (approximately 2.5-3 hours)
Day 2: Gorilla Tracking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, drive to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla tracking etiquette and safety. You will then be assigned a group and a guide before embarking on a thrilling trek through the lush rainforest in search of a gorilla family. The trek can take from 2 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorillas. Once found, you will spend one magical hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about the local culture and traditions. Enjoy dinner at the lodge and relax after an exhilarating day.
- Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch during the trek, dinner at the lodge
- Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or similar
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking and Visit to Twin Lakes
Start the day with breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey tracking. Embark on a trek through the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park to find these playful primates. Spend an hour observing and photographing them before returning to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to visit the beautiful Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, where you can enjoy the stunning views and possibly take a boat ride. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch at the lodge, dinner at the lodge
- Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Day 4: Visit Musanze Caves and Transfer to Kigali for Departure
After breakfast, check out from the lodge and visit the Musanze Caves, a fascinating geological site with a rich history. Explore the caves with a guided tour, learning about their formation and historical significance. After the tour, drive back to Kigali with a stop for lunch en route. Upon arrival in Kigali, you will have some free time for last-minute shopping or exploration before being transferred to the airport for your departure flight.
- Meals: Breakfast at the lodge, lunch en route to Kigali
- Driving Plan: Volcanoes National Park to Kigali (approximately 2.5-3 hours)
Inclusions
- Park fees(For non-residents)
- Gorilla permits(One per person, non-resident)
- All activities(Unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
Exclusions
- International flights(From/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips(Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Some meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinks