4-Day Gorilla Trekking Itinerary in Rwanda

Experience the thrill of trekking alongside gorillas and explore the stunning mountains of Volcanoes National Park.

4-Day Gorilla Trekking Itinerary in Rwanda

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Welcome to Rwanda! As you land at Kigali International Airport, you’re greeted with a VIP meet-and-greet service, providing a fast-track process through customs and assistance with visas and luggage. Your guide will be waiting to transfer you to your accommodation, Amata N’Ubuki Boutique Hotel, where you’ll be staying overnight. After checking in, the afternoon is yours to explore Kigali. You can choose to visit local markets, historical sites, or museums—whatever piques your interest (entrance fees are at your own expense). Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure, perhaps trying some local cuisine. Breakfast is included, but lunch and dinner are not, giving you the flexibility to dine at your choice of Kigali’s eateries.

Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before checking out and embarking on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park. As you travel through Rwanda’s lush countryside, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” take in the coffee plantations, banana fields, and daily life of the local people. The journey to Musanze, where Volcanoes National Park is located, takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

Upon arrival in Musanze, stop by the Ellen DeGeneres/Dian Fossey Campus to learn about the conservation work carried out to protect Rwanda’s gorillas. Discover the legacy of Dian Fossey, whose groundbreaking work with mountain gorillas has inspired conservation efforts worldwide. After the visit, continue to Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, your base for the next two days. After a delicious lunch at the hotel, spend the rest of the day at your leisure, enjoying the tranquil surroundings and the hotel’s amenities. All meals are included at the hotel.

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Today is the highlight of your trip—gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park! After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on the trekking experience. You’ll be assigned to a group and a guide who will lead you through the dense forest in search of a gorilla family. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty, but once you find the gorillas, you’ll have an hour to observe them in their natural habitat. It’s an awe-inspiring experience as you watch these magnificent creatures interact with each other, showcasing their strength, intelligence, and family bonds.

To make your trek more comfortable, a complimentary porter will be assigned to you, assisting with your daypack and helping you navigate challenging terrain. The porters are local community members registered with the Rwanda Wildlife Authority, supporting the local economy through tourism.

After the trek, return to the hotel for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation. You can choose to unwind at the lodge, take a stroll in the area, or share stories with other guests. Enjoy a restful evening at the lodge, with all meals included.

Day 4: Optional Golden Monkeys Hike and Transfer Back to Kigali

On your final day, enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out. You have the option to go on a Golden Monkeys hike, a shorter trek through the forest where you can observe these playful and curious primates. The hike is a delightful way to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the park.

After the hike, return to the hotel for lunch, then prepare for your transfer back to Kigali. The drive back allows you to reflect on your unforgettable experience and the natural beauty of Rwanda. Once you arrive in Kigali, you’ll be taken to Kigali International Airport to catch your international flight. If you have additional accommodation or flights scheduled, your guide will assist with those arrangements.

Get Your Ticket

This four-day gorilla trekking itinerary in Rwanda is designed to provide a unique, memorable experience, combining the thrill of gorilla encounters with the natural beauty and culture of Rwanda. All meals and non-alcoholic drinks are included, except for lunch and dinner on Day 1 and dinner on Day 4. Enjoy your journey!