2 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking Tour

Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your safari begins with an early morning pick-up from your Kigali hotel or Kigali International Airport by a professional guide from Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd. From the capital, you will enjoy a 2.5-hour scenic drive to the beautiful Musanze District, home to the world-renowned Volcanoes National Park. The drive winds through Rwanda’s rolling hills and terraced farmlands, offering postcard-worthy views at every turn. Upon arrival at the park headquarters in Kinigi, you will be welcomed by park staff and briefed about the gorilla trekking protocols, including safety guidelines and gorilla behavior etiquette.

Gorilla Trekking Experience

By 8:00 AM, your adventure into the jungle begins. Escorted by a team of rangers and porters, you’ll follow trails that weave through the thick undergrowth, mud paths, and bamboo forests in search of your assigned gorilla family. The trek can last anywhere between 1 to 4 hours depending on the gorillas’ location that morning. Once located, you’ll spend a magical hour observing the gorillas—watching silverbacks protect their group, mothers groom their young, and juveniles tumble around in playful joy. This awe-inspiring moment is a deeply emotional encounter that leaves a lifelong impact.

After the trek, return to the trailhead where your driver will be waiting. You’ll transfer to your lodge for lunch and relaxation, reflecting on the incredible experience you’ve just had. Later, you may choose to enjoy the serene lodge environment, take a nature walk, or book a massage therapy session offered by some luxury accommodations.

• Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Activities: Mountain Gorilla Trekking
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking Water, and Dinner

Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Your second day begins with an early breakfast followed by a short transfer back to the Kinigi Park Headquarters. Today’s activity is a Golden Monkey Tracking adventure, a lighter and often more playful complement to the previous day’s gorilla trek. Golden monkeys are rare, endangered species found only in the Albertine Rift region and are known for their bright golden-orange fur and curious, energetic nature.

The tracking typically takes 1 to 2 hours, and you’ll have a full hour to observe a habituated troop within the bamboo zones of the park. These monkeys are fast-moving and live in large groups, often leaping through the canopy or foraging on the ground for bamboo shoots, fruits, and insects. Their behavior offers excellent photographic opportunities and an entirely different primate experience from the more solemn and powerful gorilla encounter.

Afternoon Return to Kigali

After the golden monkey trek, return to your lodge for refreshments and a hot lunch before beginning your comfortable road transfer back to Kigali City in the early afternoon. You’ll arrive by early evening and be dropped off at your hotel, residence, or Kigali International Airport depending on your onward travel plans.

• Accommodation: none
• Activities: Golden Monkey Tracking
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Drinking Water