3-Days Rwanda Gorilla & Golden Monkey Tour

Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is one of those rare destinations where nature speaks directly to your soul. Rolling emerald hills, often cloaked in mist, hide some of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth. This 3-day adventure is more than just a safari it’s a deeply moving encounter with creatures with whom we share a profound bond: the majestic mountain gorillas and the playful golden monkeys.

You’ll hike through lush rainforest trails in Volcanoes National Park, locking eyes with gorillas in their natural habitat an experience that will stay with you forever. Along the way, you’ll enjoy Rwanda’s serene landscapes, warm hospitality, and the subtle power of reconnecting with nature.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, this trip is designed to spark wonder and leave lasting footprints on your heart.

Trip Highlights

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Golden monkey tracking in bamboo forests
• Scenic drives through Rwanda’s rolling hills
• Cultural insights and local experiences
• Professional, experienced guides and comfortable accommodations

Detailed Itinerary

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

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, your driver-guide will greet you with a warm smile and a personalized welcome. Kigali, often ranked among Africa’s cleanest and safest cities, will give you your first glimpse of Rwanda’s charm.

From Kigali, enjoy a 2.5–3-hour scenic drive north to Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, take in terraced hillsides, banana plantations, and rural life unfolding in its most authentic form. Feel free to ask your guide questions Rwandans are proud of their country and love sharing stories.

Arriving in Musanze, the town nearest the park, you’ll check into your lodge nestled amid lush forest surroundings. Take a leisurely walk, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and prepare for the adventure ahead. A hearty dinner awaits to end your day on a comforting note.

Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Lunch (en route), Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking – A Soul-Stirring Encounter

Rise early to the sounds of the rainforest you’re about to experience one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on the planet.

After breakfast, head to Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a short briefing. Here, you’ll be assigned to one of the habituated gorilla families and meet the expert trackers who will guide you through the forest.

The trek can last 1 to 5 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location, and the terrain can be rugged, so sturdy walking shoes and a sense of adventure are essential. As you navigate dense jungle trails, anticipation builds until finally, you come face-to-face with a mountain gorilla family.

Watching these gentle giants interact, groom, feed, or lounge is an emotional and humbling experience. You’ll spend one magical hour silently observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat a moment that will stay with you forever.

After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and rest. If you wish, optional visits to nearby communities can be arranged to learn about Rwandan traditions and post-conservation efforts.

Accommodation: Same lodge as Day 1
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking & Return to Kigali

Wake early for another unique wildlife encounter. This morning, you’ll track golden monkeys, a rare and endangered species found only in the Virunga mountains. Agile and playful, these monkeys leap gracefully among bamboo trees, offering delightful photographic opportunities. The trek is lighter and easier than gorilla trekking, providing a perfect contrast to yesterday’s intensity.

After spending about an hour with the golden monkeys, return to your lodge for a quick freshen-up and brunch. Then, begin the drive back to Kigali. Time permitting, you can visit some of the city’s highlights, such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, or enjoy a scenic city drive.

Finally, your guide will drop you at Kigali International Airport for your departure, leaving you with memories of a short but profoundly impactful journey.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (optional, depending on flight schedule)

What’s Included

• Airport pick-up and drop-off (Kigali International Airport)
• All ground transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide
• 2 nights accommodation in quality lodges
• All meals as mentioned
• 1 Gorilla trekking permit (worth $1,500)
• 1 Golden monkey trekking permit
• Bottled drinking water during the trip

What to Bring

• Comfortable hiking boots/shoes
• Waterproof jacket (weather can change quickly)
• Lightweight long-sleeve clothing
• Daypack, sunscreen, insect repellent
• Camera (no flash for gorilla photography)
• Refillable water bottle