Rwanda Gorilla Safari & Mount Bisoke Hike

The 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari and Mount Bisoke Hike adventure begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and quiet capital. After arrival, a guided city tour introduces you to Kigali’s history and culture. You will visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and explore local markets. The city tour sets the tone for your journey into the heart of Rwanda’s wildlife zone.

Next, you travel to Musanze District, home to Volcanoes National Park. This park is Rwanda’s most famous wildlife reserve. It shares borders with Uganda’s Mgahinga and Bwindi National Parks. Volcanoes National Park hosts mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, hyenas, forest elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. Bird lovers enjoy spotting over 300 bird species.

The park was part of Congo’s Virunga National Park until 1925. Its global fame increased when Dian Fossey set up her gorilla research center between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi. Fossey studied gorillas closely and discovered that earning the trust of a silverback was the first step in gorilla habituation. This process made gorilla tourism possible. Her work also helped in the conservation of these endangered animals.

Mount Bisoke is another major highlight of the trip. It stands out for its easy one-day hike to the top. This volcano has a stunning crater lake at the summit. On clear days, the views from the top stretch far across the Virunga ranges. The trail passes through bamboo forests and alpine meadows. Hikers see giant lobelia, hagenia trees, and sometimes wildlife along the way.

This tour also includes a cultural visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village. The stop allows guests to learn more about Rwanda’s culture and traditions. Performances, craft displays, and storytelling sessions help travelers connect with the local way of life.

Now, let’s look at the detailed itinerary for this 4-day safari and hike experience.

Day 1: Arrive in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your guide will meet you at Kigali Airport or your hotel. First, you go on a Kigali city tour. Key stops include the Genocide Memorial Centre, local markets, and cultural landmarks. Later in the day, you drive to Musanze District, located near Volcanoes National Park. The journey takes about two to three hours. On arrival, check in at your selected lodge and enjoy dinner and overnight rest.

Lodge Options:

• Budget: Muhabura Hotel

• Mid-range: Le Bamboo Gorilla Lodge

• Luxury: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Start your day with an early breakfast. Then head to the park headquarters for a short briefing. You will join a group and get assigned a gorilla family to track. After the briefing, you drive to the trailhead. Gorilla trekking takes between 1 to 5 hours depending on the gorilla group’s location. Once you locate them, you will stay with the gorillas for one hour. You observe them feed, groom, and interact.

After trekking, return to the lodge for lunch. Later, take a relaxed afternoon visit to Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. These twin lakes offer peaceful views and a scenic drive. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Hike Mount Bisoke

Have breakfast early, then drive to the base of Mount Bisoke. A park ranger leads the hike. The trail goes through bamboo forest and alpine vegetation. Wildlife and unique plants appear along the trail. After 3 to 4 hours, you reach the summit. From here, enjoy views of the crater lake and surrounding volcanoes. If the weather is clear, the views are excellent. You eat a packed lunch at the top. Later, descend and return to the lodge for dinner and rest.

Day 4: Return to Kigali and Departure

After breakfast, drive back to Kigali. If you skipped the city tour on the first day, today gives you a second chance. Visit remaining attractions or shop at local craft stores. After the Gorilla Safari & Mount Bisoke tour, transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight.

Inclusions

• Gorilla trekking permit

• All park entry fees

• Lodging and meals

• Transportation in a safari vehicle

• Services of a professional guide

Exclusions

• International flights

• Tips and gratuities

• Personal expenses