This 1 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Adventure is the perfect experience for travelers with limited time but a deep desire to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The journey takes you from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park, home to the majestic mountain gorillas of Rwanda. You will trek through the lush forests, observe a gorilla family up close, and return to Kigali the same day. It’s a short yet unforgettable adventure that captures the spirit of Rwanda’s wilderness and its iconic wildlife.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking – Return to Kigali

Your driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport early in the morning, around 4:30 am, for the scenic 2.5-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park in the northern town of Musanze. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, mist-covered valleys, and rural landscapes.

Upon arrival at the park headquarters in Kinigi, you’ll receive a briefing from the park rangers about gorilla trekking rules and be assigned to a specific gorilla family based on your fitness level. The trek begins through the dense rainforest, bamboo zones, and volcanic slopes in search of the gorillas. The duration of the trek can range from 1 to 5 hours, depending on the movement of the gorilla family.

Once you locate the gorillas, you’ll spend an awe-inspiring hour observing them as they feed, play, and interact with each other. Witnessing the silverback’s power, the young ones’ playful nature, and the nurturing mothers is a heartwarming and life-changing experience. Your guide will provide insights about the gorilla family’s behavior and conservation efforts in place to protect these endangered creatures.

After the trek, you’ll return to the park headquarters to receive your trekking certificate and enjoy a hot lunch in Musanze town. Later in the afternoon, you’ll drive back to Kigali, arriving in the evening. Depending on your schedule, you may visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial or a local craft market before being dropped off at your hotel or the airport for your onward journey.

End of Safari

Trip Inclusions

Gorilla trekking permit (US$1,500 per person)

Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide

Bottled drinking water during the trip

Lunch in Musanze

Park entry fees

Trip Exclusions

International flights

Visa fees

Travel insurance

Tips to guides and porters

Personal expenses (souvenirs, beverages, etc.)