4 Days Rwanda Double Gorilla Trekking Tour

4 Days Rwanda Double Gorilla Trekking Tour

With a 4-days Rwanda double gorilla trekking Tour at Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, you will embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s wilderness. This safari offers a rare opportunity to trek into the forest twice to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, along with a cultural experience at the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village and optional activities like golden monkey tracking or a visit to the Dian Fossey Tomb. The tour begins and ends in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, giving you a glimpse of the country’s vibrant culture and scenic landscapes.

Overview

Trip Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Destination: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Activities: Gorilla trekking (2 treks), Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, Golden monkey tracking or Dian Fossey hike
Tour Starts and Ends: Kigali, Rwanda
Accommodation: Luxury, mid-range, or budget options available depending on preferences

Itinerary Outline

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 2: First Gorilla Trek and Visit to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
Day 3: Second Gorilla Trek
Day 4: Golden Monkey Trek or Dian Fossey Hike and Return to Kigali for Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

This 4 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour begins with pick up from either hotel or Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by your driver-guide who will brief you on the adventure ahead. If time allows, embark on a short city tour of Kigali, visiting landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial to gain insights into Rwanda’s poignant history and remarkable recovery.

After the city tour, you will begin your scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, located in the Musanze district, approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali. The drive offers stunning views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, lush greenery, and picturesque rural landscapes.

Upon arrival at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park, check in and relax for the evening for dinner and overnight stay at;

Upmarket: Gorilla Nest One & Only/ Super Luxruy -Bisate/ Sabyinyo/ Midluxury – Sabyinyo/ Virunga Spa & Resort/Engagi Lodge/ Luxury – Five Volcanoes/ Tiloreza/Midrange – Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge/ Budget – Kinigi Guest House/ Virunga Hotel

MEAL PLAN: Lunch and Dinner Accordingly

Day 2: First Gorilla Trek and Visit to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village

After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing by the park rangers. This is where you will learn about the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking. Once the group is ready, you will be assigned a specific gorilla family and set off into the forest, led by experienced rangers and trackers.

The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. The terrain can be challenging, but the reward is well worth it. Upon encountering the gorillas, you will spend one magical hour observing them in their natural habitat, watching them forage, play, and interact with one another. This close-up encounter with the mountain gorillas is a truly life-changing experience.

After the trek, return to your lodge to rest and freshen up. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, now known as the Gorilla Guardians Village. This cultural experience offers you the opportunity to learn about Rwanda’s rich culture and traditions, participate in traditional dances, and interact with local people. It is a fantastic way to support the local community and gain a deeper understanding of the Rwandan way of life. Dinner and overnight at your lodge

MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Second Gorilla Trek

Your second day of gorilla trekking kicks off with another early start. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you will head back to the park headquarters for a second informative briefing. This time, you will be assigned a different gorilla family to trek, offering you a fresh opportunity to observe the fascinating variety of behaviors and social dynamics within the gorilla groups.

Just like the first day, the length of the trek may vary, but the experience remains equally breathtaking. Encountering these majestic creatures up close for a second time not only allows you to deepen your connection to the gorillas but also offers a greater appreciation for their conservation. During this trek, you may witness different behaviors—ranging from gentle grooming rituals to playful interactions among the younger gorillas.

Once your hour with the gorillas concludes, you will return to your lodge for some well-deserved rest. Here, you can relax and soak in the stunning views of the Volcanoes National Park. Dinner will be served at your lodge, where you will spend the night, reflecting on another incredible day.

MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Golden Monkey Trek or Dian Fossey Hike and Return to Kigali for Departure

On your final day, you have the option to choose between tracking the playful golden monkeys or embarking on the Dian Fossey Tomb hike.

Golden Monkey Trek: This trek offers a delightful experience as you follow the agile and curious golden monkeys through the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. These monkeys are highly active and often playful, making the trek an exciting and energetic adventure.
Dian Fossey Hike: If you’re more interested in learning about conservation efforts, the Dian Fossey hike will take you to the tomb of the legendary primatologist. Fossey dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas, and this hike offers an opportunity to honor her work while enjoying beautiful forest scenery.

After the morning activity, return to your lodge to freshen up and check out. You will then begin your journey back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping at local craft markets before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. Dinner and overnight at your lodge

MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

END OF TOUR

This 4-days Rwanda double gorilla trekking Tour offers a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat not just once, but twice. In addition to these unforgettable wildlife encounters, you will also gain a deeper understanding of Rwandan culture through an enriching visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village. Moreover, the trip provides even more exciting options, such as the chance to track golden monkeys or embark on the Dian Fossey hike, adding further variety and adventure to the experience. Best of all, the tour conveniently begins and ends in Kigali, making it both accessible and enriching for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.