Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi with Kurikayo Africa Adventures

Overview

This 2 Days Volcanoes National Park Rwanda Safari offers an excellent opportunity to visit Rwanda’s most famous wildlife destination. The park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas and the spectacular Virunga Volcanoes. Additionally, visitors enjoy breathtaking scenery, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife.

Moreover, this short safari is perfect for travelers who want to experience gorilla trekking while exploring Rwanda’s beautiful landscapes. Despite its short duration, the tour provides unforgettable wildlife encounters and meaningful cultural experiences.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport. After a short briefing, you will start your scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park in Musanze District. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, terraced farms, and charming villages. As a result, you will quickly understand why Rwanda is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Cultural Experience at Gorilla Guardians Village

Upon arrival in Musanze, you will visit the Gorilla Guardians Village, formerly known as Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. Here, you will interact with local communities and learn about traditional Rwandan culture.

Furthermore, you will witness vibrant performances featuring traditional music, dance, and storytelling. This cultural encounter provides valuable insights into the lives of people living near the gorilla habitat. Consequently, visitors gain a deeper appreciation of Rwanda’s heritage and conservation efforts.

Lodge Check-in and Relaxation

Later in the afternoon, you will check in at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park. Afterwards, you can relax and enjoy the cool mountain atmosphere.

Meanwhile, you may choose to explore the surrounding area or simply prepare for the exciting gorilla trekking experience scheduled for the following day.

Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation Options:

  • Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

  • Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

  • Kinigi Guesthouse

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure

After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the park headquarters in Kinigi. Here, park rangers will conduct a detailed briefing at approximately 7:00 am.

Following the briefing, you will be assigned to a specific gorilla family. You will then begin your trek through the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park. Depending on the location of the gorillas, the trek may last between one and five hours.

Encountering the Mountain Gorillas

Eventually, you will come face-to-face with a mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat. This remarkable experience is often the highlight of any visit to Rwanda.

For one unforgettable hour, you will observe the gorillas as they feed, play, groom one another, and interact naturally. Moreover, the opportunity to watch these gentle giants at close range creates memories that last a lifetime.

Return to Kigali

After the trek, you will return to the park headquarters and receive your gorilla trekking certificate. Afterwards, you will enjoy lunch in Musanze.

Later, you will begin your return journey to Kigali. If time permits, you may visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial or stop at a local craft market. Finally, your driver-guide will drop you off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

End of Safari

Trip Inclusions

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

  • Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle

  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide

  • Park entrance fees

  • Bottled drinking water

  • Meals as specified in the itinerary

  • Accommodation for one night

Trip Exclusions

  • International flights

  • Rwanda visa fees

  • Travel insurance

  • Tips for guides and porters

  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs and beverages