3 Days Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

3 Days Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda at Volcanoes National Park

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda, a journey that combines breathtaking wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and scenic landscapes. This guided tour takes you deep into Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas, the playful golden monkeys, and the historical Dian Fossey tomb. The tour also includes a Kigali city tour, giving you insights into Rwanda’s vibrant culture and poignant history.

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide. After a short briefing, you’ll begin your day with a guided tour of Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest and most organized cities.

Highlights of the Kigali City Tour:

  • Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre: A moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide, offering deep insights into Rwanda’s tragic past and inspiring recovery.

  • Presidential Palace Museum: The former residence of Rwanda’s late President Habyarimana, showcasing artifacts and insights into Rwanda’s political history.

  • Caplaki Craft Village or Local Market: Explore and shop for unique Rwandan handicrafts, textiles, wood carvings, and souvenirs made by local artisans.

After lunch in Kigali, you’ll embark on a scenic 2 to 3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern province of Rwanda in the Virunga Mountain range. Upon arrival, check in at your chosen lodge, freshen up, and enjoy dinner.

Accommodation Options:

  • Luxury: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

  • Mid-range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge or Lapalme Hotel

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast, your driver-guide will transfer you to the Kinigi Park Headquarters for a detailed briefing about gorilla trekking etiquette and group allocation. Here, you’ll be assigned to a specific habituated gorilla family and ranger guides.

Gorilla Trekking Experience:

  • The trek duration varies between 2 to 8 hours, depending on the location of your assigned gorilla group.

  • Trekking involves hiking through bamboo forests, hilly terrain, and volcanic slopes, offering both challenge and excitement.

  • Once you locate the gorillas, you’ll spend a magical 60 minutes observing their behavior—from feeding and grooming to playing and resting—at close range.

  • Photography is allowed (without flash), and this moment is often described as life-changing by visitors.

After the trek, you’ll return to the lodge for a late lunch and have the rest of the afternoon to relax. If time and energy permit, optional visits to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village or a guided nature walk can be arranged at an extra cost.

Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Day 3: Optional Golden Monkey Trek – Return to Kigali – Departure

Optional Morning Activity (Time Permitting):

  • You may choose to go golden monkey tracking early in the morning. These playful primates are endemic to the Virunga region and are known for their vibrant golden-orange fur and active behavior in the bamboo forests.

After breakfast, begin your drive back to Kigali, enjoying the rolling hills and terraced countryside that give Rwanda the nickname “The Land of a Thousand Hills.” You’ll have lunch in Kigali, followed by transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

Tour Includes:

  • Airport transfers

  • Ground transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle

  • English-speaking professional guide

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

  • Accommodation and meals as per itinerary

  • Bottled drinking water during the safari

  • Kigali city tour entry fees

Tour Excludes:

  • International flights

  • Rwanda visa fees

  • Optional activities

  • Personal expenses (tips, laundry, beverages)

Similar Rwanda Gorilla Safari Packages:

  • 1-Day Gorilla Trek Rwanda

  • 2-Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda

  • 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari

  • 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Tours

  • 4-Day Double Gorilla Trekking Adventure

  • 3-Day Gorilla Trekking & Lake Kivu Tour

Why Choose Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking?

Rwanda offers some of the most accessible and well-managed gorilla trekking experiences in Africa. With its high conservation standards, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming people, Rwanda provides not just a safari—but a transformative journey into the heart of nature and humanity.