3 Days best of Rwanda gorilla and golden monkey trekking safari in Volcanoes national park

Your 3 Days best of Rwanda gorilla and golden monkey trekking safari in Volcanoes national park begins in Kigali, a city celebrated for its cleanliness, safety, and warm hospitality. Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport or your hotel, you will be welcomed by your safari guide who will give you a brief introduction and a rundown of your itinerary, starting on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park. The drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park typically takes about 4–5 hours, but every moment is filled with stunning views of rolling hills, terraced farms, and picturesque villages. Along the way, you’ll have the option to stop at the Kigali Genocide Memorial if time permits. This somber yet enlightening site provides insight into Rwanda's history and resilience. As you approach Volcanoes National Park, you’ll notice the dramatic changes in landscape—the towering peaks of the Virunga volcanoes dominate the horizon, surrounded by dense forests that are teeming with life. Upon arrival at your lodge or eco-friendly accommodation near the park, you’ll have time to relax and prepare for the thrilling adventures ahead.

Today is dedicated to one of the most iconic wildlife experiences on Earth gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast at your lodge, you'll head to the park headquarters in Kinigi for registration and a briefing by park rangers. Here, you'll learn about trekking protocols and be assigned to a specific gorilla family based on your fitness level and preferences. With your trekking group and experienced guides, you’ll venture into the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park in search of mountain gorillas. The trek can vary in duration, ranging from 2–6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family you're tracking. The journey itself is an adventure as you navigate through dense vegetation, cross streams, and ascend steep slopes. When you finally encounter a gorilla family, all the effort becomes worthwhile. Spending up to one hour in their presence is both humbling. You’ll witness their social interactions, playful behavior, and nurturing care for their young all while marveling at their sheer strength and gentle demeanor. This intimate experience highlights the importance of conservation efforts that protect these endangered creatures. After your trek, you'll return to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit nearby cultural sites such as Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you can immerse yourself in Rwandan traditions through dance performances, storytelling, and crafts. As evening falls, enjoy dinner at your lodge while reflecting on the incredible experience of gorilla trekking. The memories of this day are sure to stay with you forever.

The final day of your safari offers yet another unique wildlife encounter tracking golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. These endangered primates are known for their striking golden-orange fur and lively personalities. After breakfast, you'll return to the park headquarters for registration and a briefing before setting off on your trek. Golden monkey tracking is generally less strenuous than gorilla trekking, making it ideal for all fitness levels. These monkeys are highly active and social, often leaping between trees or foraging on the forest floor for fruits and bamboo shoots. Observing their playful antics is both entertaining and insightful. Like gorilla trekking, you'll spend up to one hour with the golden monkeys once you locate them. This experience offers excellent opportunities for photography as well as a deeper appreciation for Rwanda's biodiversity. After your trek, you'll return to your lodge for lunch before encountering on the drive back to Kigali. As you retrace your route through Rwanda's scenic countryside, you'll have time to reflect on the incredible experiences you've had over the past three days. Upon arrival in Kigali, your guide will drop you off at your hotel or transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.