2 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari Experience
Embark on an unforgettable 2-day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari Experience with Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, your trusted expert in authentic East African wildlife adventures. This short yet powerful itinerary is designed for travelers seeking to witness the majestic mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park up close, while also engaging in meaningful cultural encounters and educational visits.
This carefully curated journey begins with a seamless pickup from your Kigali hotel, followed by a scenic drive to the legendary Volcanoes National Park, home to a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Along the way, you will immerse yourself in Rwandan heritage at the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, an award-winning community tourism initiative, and pay homage to the late primatologist Dian Fossey at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund—a globally respected gorilla conservation center.
On Day 2, prepare for the highlight of your safari—mountain gorilla trekking. You’ll venture deep into the misty montane forests of the Virunga Volcanoes, guided by expert trackers, for an emotional and awe-inspiring hour in the presence of a habituated gorilla family. After this magical encounter, you’ll return to Kigali in the afternoon with memories that will last a lifetime.
Detailed 2 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari Experience
Your Rwanda gorilla trekking safari begins with a warm welcome in Kigali City, either from your hotel or Kigali International Airport, depending on your preference. From here, you’ll embark on a scenic 2.5-hour drive northwest through Rwanda’s pristine countryside. This drive, filled with rolling hills and picturesque tea plantations, leads you to Musanze, the gateway town to Volcanoes National Park.
En route, enjoy a leisurely stop at the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, an interactive experience designed to showcase the cultural richness of the Rwandan people. Here, you’ll witness traditional dance performances, listen to ancient storytelling, try your hand at drumming, and even meet ex-poachers who have now become passionate conservationists. The village is a powerful representation of community transformation through tourism, and your visit directly supports local development initiatives.
In the afternoon, visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund – Ellen DeGeneres Campus, an inspiring research and conservation center that honors the legacy of Dr. Dian Fossey, the pioneer who dedicated her life to protecting Rwanda’s mountain gorillas. Here, you’ll explore the modern museum, research labs, and interactive exhibits that detail the gorilla conservation journey and how community involvement has been central to preserving these great apes. The center also allows visitors to understand the importance of gorilla protection and how continued support contributes to their survival.
After this immersive cultural and educational day, transfer to your luxurious lodge or eco-friendly accommodation nestled in the volcanic foothills. Enjoy dinner and relax in preparation for your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience tomorrow.
- Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
- Activities: Visit to Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, Visit Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Rise early to a warm breakfast and prepare for the highlight of your safari – Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park. At around 7:00 AM, report to the Kinigi Park Headquarters for a comprehensive briefing led by expert rangers. During this session, you will be grouped based on fitness levels and assigned a habituated gorilla family group. The number of trekkers is limited to eight per group to ensure a low-impact experience and maximum interaction time.
The gorilla trekking adventure can take between 2 to 6 hours depending on the movement of the gorillas, and the terrain can be steep and muddy—but every step is worth it. The moment you come face-to-face with a gentle silverback and his family in their natural habitat, surrounded by dense forest and misty volcanoes, is simply indescribable. You’ll have a full hour to observe their behaviors, social interactions, and nurturing bonds—a deeply moving and humbling experience for any wildlife lover.
After your encounter, hike back to the trailhead where your guide awaits. Return to your lodge to freshen up and have lunch before beginning your afternoon transfer back to Kigali. Arrive in the early evening and be dropped at your hotel, residence, or airport depending on your travel schedule.
- Accommodation: None
- Activities: Mountain Gorilla Trekking
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Safari Inclusions
- 4×4 safari vehicle with English-speaking driver/guide.
- Kigali hotel pickup and drop-off.
- All road transfers as per itinerary.
- 1 Night accommodation in Volcanoes National Park (Full board).
- Gorilla trekking permit ($1,500 per person).
- Entry fees to Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village and Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
- Bottled water throughout the safari.
- Government taxes and VAT.
Safari Exclusions
- International and domestic flights (unless fly-in is requested).
- Travel insurance and medical expenses.
- Rwanda visa fees.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Additional accommodation in Kigali (if needed before/after safari).
- Optional activities not mentioned in the inclusions.
- Laundry, beverages, and personal expenses at lodges.
