3 Days Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

The 3-day Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park offers an unforgettable primate adventure in Rwanda. This short yet rewarding safari starts and ends in Kigali and takes you deep into the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas.

During this safari, you will enjoy an incredible gorilla trekking experience, explore Kigali City, and visit the vibrant Ibyi’wacu Cultural Village. In addition, you will interact with local communities, discover Rwanda’s rich traditions, and experience the country’s breathtaking landscapes.

Experiya Tour Company carefully designs this itinerary for travelers seeking a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and scenic beauty.

Safari Highlights

• Kigali City Tour
• Scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills
• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• One hour with mountain gorillas
• Ibyi’wacu Cultural Village experience
• Cultural interactions with local communities

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Depending on your arrival time and location in Kigali, your driver-guide from Experiya Tour Company will warmly welcome you and brief you about the safari.

Afterward, you will begin a guided Kigali City Tour. During the tour, you may visit several interesting places, including:

• Kigali Genocide Memorial Center
• Kimironko Market
• Local art and craft centers
• Historical and cultural sites within the city

The city tour gives you a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s history, culture, and daily life. Later, you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before starting your scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park.

As you travel northwards, you will admire Rwanda’s famous rolling hills, beautiful countryside, green plantations, and traditional homesteads. The journey itself is incredibly scenic and offers excellent photography opportunities.

Upon arrival at the lodge, you will check in, relax, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.

Meal Plan

Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge near Volcanoes National Park

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Ibyi’wacu Cultural Tour

After an early breakfast, you will carry your packed lunch and transfer to the park headquarters for a pre-trekking briefing conducted by the park rangers.

During the briefing, the guides will explain gorilla trekking rules, safety guidelines, and what to expect while in the forest. You will then join a small trekking group and begin your search for the mountain gorillas.

The trek can take between 2 and 6 hours depending on the movement of the gorilla family. However, the experience is incredibly rewarding. Along the way, you may also spot:

• Golden monkeys
• Forest birds
• Unique plant species
• Other wildlife within the park

Once you locate the gorillas, you will spend one magical hour observing them in their natural habitat. You will watch them feed, groom, rest, and interact with one another while learning about their behaviors from experienced ranger guides.

This close encounter with mountain gorillas creates unforgettable memories and offers remarkable photography opportunities.

After the trek, you will return to the starting point, where your driver-guide will transfer you to the Ibyi’wacu Cultural Village for an authentic cultural experience.

Here, you will:

• Interact with local community members
• Learn about traditional Rwandan culture
• Experience local dances and music
• Discover traditional hunting and herbal medicine practices
• Participate in cultural activities and storytelling

Later in the evening, you will return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge near Volcanoes National Park

Day 3: Departure to Kigali

On the final day of your safari, you will enjoy breakfast at leisure before checking out of the lodge.

Afterward, your driver-guide from Experiya Tour Company will transfer you back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may enjoy another short city excursion or shop for souvenirs before departure.

Finally, you will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport or any preferred location in Kigali.

Meal Plan

Breakfast and Lunch

End of Safari

Tour Includes

• Gorilla trekking permit
• Ibyi’wacu Cultural Village tour
• Kigali City Tour
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide
• Full-board accommodation
• Ground transportation in a 4WD safari vehicle
• Fuel and driver expenses
• Bottled drinking water during the safari

Tour Excludes

• International flights
• Rwanda visa fees
• Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses such as:
  • Souvenirs
  • Laundry services
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Tips
  • Porter fees