Unforgettable Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
8 Days Gorilla, Golden Monkey & Batwa Cultural Safari
- Rwanda
- 8 Days
- On Request
Overview
Explore the heart of the Virunga Mountains on this exceptional 7-night Rwanda gorilla safari with Face of Africa Adventures. This immersive journey combines unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, golden monkey encounters, volcanic landscapes, and rich Batwa cultural heritage for a truly authentic African safari experience. Your safari begins and ends in Kigali, Rwanda, with a scenic drive to the iconic Virunga Lodge, set high on a ridge overlooking the twin lakes Ruhondo and Bulera. Spend seven nights in the Virunga region, perfectly positioned for wildlife encounters, conservation activities, and cultural exploration.
Tours Highlights
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
- Golden monkey tracking in the Virunga Mountains
- Guided volcano hike with breathtaking views
- Authentic Batwa cultural experience
- Scenic countryside and lake views
Tours Include & Exclude
- Transport in modified 4WD Land Cruiser or Land Rover with photographic roof.
- All airport pick up and drop off.
- Accommodation and meals in Hotels/ Lodges/ Tented Camps as per itinerary.
- Game drives in 4×4 safari vehicle with pop roof ideal for photographing.
- Services of professional English speaking safari guide.
- All park fees and crater service fees and camping fees.
- 5 litre of bottled mineral water per person per day.
- Visa fees and travel insurance.
- International and domestic flights.
- Olduvai gorge fees.
- Tipping and gratuities.
- All items of a personal nature i.e. telephones, mosquito repellents etc.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and beverages.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
One World Observatory
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional Volcanoes Safaris guide, who will accompany you throughout your luxury gorilla safari experience. Enjoy a smooth private transfer to your boutique hotel in Kigali, where you can relax after your journey and prepare for the adventure ahead.
- Kigali
- Dinner, Breakfast
- The Retreat, Kigali
Day 2: Kigali to Mount Gahinga Lodge, Uganda
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This morning, depart Kigali and enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills and rural landscapes as you cross the border into Uganda. Arrive at the beautiful Mount Gahinga Lodge, set at the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes. Unwind with pre-dinner cocktails on the lodge terrace while taking in breathtaking volcanic views, or settle indoors beside the crackling fireplace for a cosy evening atmosphere.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Lunch, Dinner
- Mount Gahinga Lodge
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
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After an early breakfast, head into the forest for your unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience. Trek through steep, misty slopes and dense vegetation alongside expert trackers until you encounter a gorilla family hidden within the forest canopy. Treks typically last between one and three hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, you will spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat before returning to the lodge for a late lunch. Gorilla trekking is physically demanding and can be challenging, especially in wet and muddy conditions, but it is one of Africa’s most rewarding wildlife encounters.
In the afternoon, relax with complimentary spa treatments at the Gahinga Spa and Sauna, including the signature Rungu massage. Later, visit the Batwa Vocational Centre to learn how the local community supports sustainable livelihoods through traditional crafts.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Mount Gahinga Lodge
Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking & Gisozi Caldera Hike
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Start the day with breakfast before setting off to track the rare golden monkeys in the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains. These lively primates move in large troops and offer excellent photographic opportunities as they leap between branches or forage for bamboo shoots. In the afternoon, hike the scenic Gisozi Caldera. Conclude your walk with sundowners overlooking the Kisoro Valley, with sweeping views toward Lake Mutanda glowing in the distance.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Mount Gahinga Lodge
Day 5: Batwa Cultural Experience & Transfer to Rwanda
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After breakfast, visit the Gahinga Batwa Village to learn about the culture and history of one of Africa’s oldest indigenous tribes. Participate in the Batwa Heritage Tour and gain insight into their former hunter-gatherer lifestyle, traditional skills, and modern community initiatives. Return to the lodge for lunch before driving back into Rwanda. Arrive at the iconic Virunga Lodge, dramatically perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes and Lakes Bulera and Ruhondo. Enjoy sunset drinks on the terrace, followed by a vibrant Intore Dance performance celebrating Rwandan culture. Before dinner, join a fireside discussion in the Virunga Map Room with a Gorilla Doctors veterinarian, who will share insights into their vital conservation work.
- Batwa Village
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Virunga Lodge
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
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Rise early for breakfast before departing for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s premier wildlife destination. Hike through lush bamboo forests and volcanic slopes in search of a habituated gorilla family. After a trek lasting between one and three hours, spend a precious hour observing the gorillas’ social interactions and behavior before returning to the lodge for a late lunch. Some families range farther, and treks can take longer, especially in wet conditions. On the return journey, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn about cutting-edge conservation and research efforts. Unwind in the afternoon with complimentary spa treatments at the Virunga Spa and Sauna, including the renowned Rungu massage.
- Volcanoes National Park
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Virunga Lodge
Day 7: Dian Fossey Tomb Hike
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After breakfast, embark on a guided hike to the grave of legendary primatologist Dian Fossey. Visit the gorilla cemetery, where several of her beloved gorillas are laid to rest, and learn about her groundbreaking work that transformed mountain gorilla conservation.
- Volcanoes National Park
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Virunga Lodge
Day 8: Virunga Lodge to Kigali & Departure
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Depart Virunga Lodge and drive back to Kigali. If time allows, enjoy a guided city tour, including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial—a deeply moving tribute to Rwanda’s history and resilience (entry fees payable directly). Transfer to Kigali International Airport in time for your onward flight.
Tour Map
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