Journeys Created by People Who Call East Africa Home.
Travel from Kigali to the Virunga foothills for a park-guided gorilla trek. Our Rwanda-based team arranges the transfer and permit so you can focus on the forest experience. If you have more time, the original programme offers separately quoted golden monkey and cultural activities or an overnight Twin Lakes extension.
Route: Kigali → Volcanoes National Park → Kigali; optional extension to the cultural village or Ruhondo and Burera
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Departure and return times are indicative. Gorilla trekking duration varies; neither a midday finish nor a fixed afternoon arrival in Kigali can be guaranteed.
Day 1 — Gorilla trekking and return to Kigali
4:30 AM – Departure from Kigali
• Begin your journey with a early transfer to Volcanoes National Park, enjoying Rwanda’s rolling hills and lush countryside along the way.
7:00 AM – Arrival & Gorilla Trekking Briefing
• Upon arrival at the park headquarters, you will receive an informative briefing from expert guides on gorilla behavior, trekking guidelines, and safety measures.
8:00 AM – Gorilla Trekking Adventure Begins
• Embark on an exciting trek through the dense rainforest to track a gorilla family. The trek can take several hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Experience the beauty of the forest and its wildlife as you follow expert trackers.
Gorilla Encounter — timing varies
• Spend a magical hour observing the gorillas up close as they interact, feed, and go about their daily activities in their natural environment.
Return to Base & Certificate Award
• After the trek, return to the park headquarters to receive your trekking certificate, a special memento of your adventure.
Lunch & Relaxation
• Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby lodge or restaurant, taking in the serene surroundings of the park.
Return to Kigali
• Depart from Volcanoes National Park and enjoy a relaxed drive back to Kigali, with arrival time depending on the trek and road conditions.
End of Tour
• Drop-off at your hotel or preferred location, marking the end of an extraordinary wildlife experience.
Lunch is a planned stop at your own expense: the original inclusion list excludes meals and drinks.
Optional Extensions
These are alternatives to the same-day return, arranged at additional cost. We will confirm overnight accommodation, extra permits, meals and activity timings before booking.
Optional Day 2 — Golden monkeys and cultural village
Option 1: Golden Monkey Trekking & Cultural Visit
6:00 AM – Breakfast & Departure to Park Headquarters
• Start your second day with an early breakfast before heading back to Volcanoes National Park.
7:00 AM – Golden Monkey Trekking Briefing
• Learn about the unique golden monkeys and prepare for another exciting trek.
8:00 AM – Golden Monkey Trekking Begins
• Trek through the bamboo forests to observe these energetic primates known for their vibrant golden fur and playful nature.
11:00 AM – Return & Refresh
• Return to the park headquarters for a short break.
12:00 PM – Visit to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
• Immerse yourself in Rwandan culture with a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. Experience traditional dances, music, and gain insight into the rich heritage and lifestyle of the local communities.
2:00 PM – Lunch & Departure to Kigali
• Enjoy a traditional lunch before heading back to Kigali, arriving by late afternoon.
5:00 PM – End of Tour
Optional overnight extension — Twin Lakes
1:00 PM – Transfer to Twin Lakes
• Depart for the scenic twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera, offering stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes.
2:00 PM – Lakeside Activities
• Enjoy an afternoon of leisure with activities such as kayaking, paddling, hiking along the lake shores, or taking a boat trip to explore the islands and interact with local fishing communities.
5:00 PM – Sunset at the Twin Lakes
• Relax and take in the breathtaking views as the sun sets over the volcanoes.
7:00 PM – Overnight Stay
• Spend the night at a comfortable lodge overlooking the lakes, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.
Day 2 Morning – Leisure Activities & Return to Kigali
• After breakfast, enjoy more time by the lakes before heading back to Kigali by midday.
12:00 PM – Return to Kigali
• Arrive in Kigali early in the afternoon, concluding your adventure.
The original schedule overlaps the gorilla trek with a 13:00 lakes transfer. We will set a workable transfer time after your trek and confirm the overnight stay and next-day return.
Price & Planning
Price on request, based on your group size and selected arrangements. Send the enquiry below for an accurate, updated quotation. Your proposal will confirm transport, activities, permits, meals and any accommodation before booking.
What Your Tour Includes
View What’s Included
- Transport
- Gorilla trekking permit
- A professional driver/guide
- All Taxes/VAT
View What’s Excluded
- Meals
- Drinks
- Optional Day 2: Golden Monkey Trekking & Cultural Experience / Twin Lakes Adventure
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the gorilla permit included?
Yes. The original core package includes the gorilla trekking permit, transport, a professional driver-guide and taxes. Permit availability must be confirmed before booking.
Is the trek private?
Your travel arrangements can be tailored, but the park-led gorilla activity normally takes place with other permit holders.
Are meals or extensions included?
Meals and drinks are excluded from the core package. Golden monkey tracking, the cultural visit and the Twin Lakes extension need separate confirmation and pricing.
Request Your Personalised Quotation
Tell us your preferred dates, number of travellers, pickup location and any special requests. Our Rwanda-based team will respond with availability and a personalised quotation. Submitting this form does not confirm a booking, and no payment is taken through it.
