5-Day Rwanda Gorilla Encounter
The Ultimate Primate Break. Two separate treks in the mist-shrouded Volcanoes National Park.
The Ultimate Primate Break. Two separate treks in the mist-shrouded Volcanoes National Park.
This five-day itinerary is designed for the serious primate enthusiast, focusing almost entirely on the mist-shrouded slopes of Volcanoes National Park (PNV). Featuring two separate gorilla trekking opportunities, this trip offers an unmatched chance to observe these magnificent creatures on different days with different family groups, maximizing your time with them.
The journey is efficiently managed, starting with a cultural introduction in Kigali and concluding with a trek to see the rare Golden Monkeys. It is the perfect short break for those seeking an intensive, intimate encounter with nature.
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Destinations: Kigali & Volcanoes NP
Focus: Primate Trekking & Culture
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Permits: 2x Gorilla Permits Included
From $4,250 per person
Request BookingA detailed breakdown of your double-trekking adventure.
Arrival: Arrive at Kigali International Airport (KGL), where your guide will meet you.
City Tour: Start with a city tour, including a poignant visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand the history of this resilient nation.
Transfer: Afterward, you'll be transferred north (approx. 2.5 hours) to the base of the Virunga volcanoes near Musanze, checking into your lodge for preparation.
Accommodation: Wilderness Bisate Lodge or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Briefing: After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters. You will be assigned a gorilla family and a group of eight trekkers.
The Trek: Embark on your first trek, navigating the misty rainforest slopes. Upon finding the gorillas, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing them.
Evening: Return to the lodge for relaxation and dinner.
Accommodation: Wilderness Bisate Lodge or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Double the Experience: You have the privilege of tracking the mountain gorillas again today, providing a second chance to encounter a different family group and observe their unique behaviors.
Impact: The second experience often allows for better photography and deeper observation, as the initial adrenaline of the first day has settled.
Accommodation: Wilderness Bisate Lodge or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Morning: Enjoy a shorter trek to find the delightful Golden Monkeys, known for their vibrant coats and playful antics in the bamboo forests.
Afternoon: Embark on the 'Twin Lakes' village walk, exploring the shores of Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. Interact with local communities to learn about their farming and fishing cultures.
Accommodation: Wilderness Bisate Lodge or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast in the mountains. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a souvenir stop in Musanze.
Departure: Private transfer back to Kigali International Airport (KGL) for your onward international flight.
Comfortable accommodation located near the park headquarters.
Constructed from locally sourced bamboo, this lodge offers a rustic yet comfortable experience with great proximity to the park.
Luxury Option
A more upscale option offering modern amenities, a pool, and beautiful gardens to relax in after your treks.
Luxury OptionImportant details for your Rwanda Gorilla adventure.
Essential: Sturdy hiking boots (broken in), gardening gloves (for nettles), gaiters, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts.
Rain Gear: A lightweight rain jacket or poncho is mandatory as weather changes quickly in the mountains.
Fitness: Volcanoes NP is steep and altitude varies from 2,500m to 4,000m. Moderate fitness is required. Porters are available at the trailhead (highly recommended).
$4,250
Per Person (Sharing)
Includes permits worth $3,000. Price subject to permit availability.
Book This SafariThe first trek is often overwhelming with excitement. A second trek allows you to relax, take better photos, and observe behavioral nuances you might miss the first time. You also visit a different family, seeing different group dynamics.
Yes. The price includes two Gorilla permits (currently $1,500 each in Rwanda) totaling $3,000, plus the Golden Monkey permit. This makes up the bulk of the tour cost.
It varies from easy (30 mins) to strenuous (4+ hours) depending on where the gorilla families move. Generally, Rwanda's terrain is steep and bamboo-covered. We recommend hiring a porter at the trailhead to assist with your daypack and difficult terrain.
Secure your spot on this exceptional 5-day double-trek adventure. Permits are limited.
