Gorilla Trekking and Cultural Adventure in Rwanda

This Gorilla Trekking and Cultural Adventure in Rwanda is designed to offer you a unique experience with the mountain gorillas and Rwandan culture. You will spend time in the northern part of Rwanda, trekking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and enjoying beautiful views of the Virunga ranges. After that, you’ll head back to Kigali for a city tour and visit the King’s Palace and the National Museum to learn more about Rwanda’s rich cultural history.

Itinerary Summary:

• Day 01: Arrival and transfer to Volcanoes National Park
• Day 02: Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Day 03: Return to Kigali City
• Day 04: Visit King’s Palace and Butare National Museum
• Day 05: Departure

What is Included in the Safari Cost:

• A gorilla trekking permit costing USD 1500.00 per person (we handle the booking for you).
• Airport transfers on the first and last day.
• Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
• Services of an English-speaking driver/guide.
• Fuel for the whole safari.
• Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary.
• All park entrance fees.
• Drinking water during the safari.

What is Excluded:

• Pre and post-safari accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala.
• International airfares.
• A Rwanda visa (must be applied for online at least two weeks before arrival).
• Personal expenses such as tips, drinks, and laundry.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon your arrival, you will meet our representative who will drive you to Volcanoes National Park, located in northern Rwanda. The drive takes you through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, with its terraced hills and winding roads. You’ll reach your lodge in time for dinner and a restful overnight stay.

• Accommodation: Lebambou Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner
• Drive Time: Approximately 2 hours

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast at the lodge, you’ll head to the park headquarters to begin your gorilla trekking adventure. The trek takes you into the lush, green forest as you search for these magnificent creatures. Along the way, you’ll also encounter the calls of vibrant birds, the chatter of golden monkeys, and signs of other animals like buffalo and elephants.

Once you’ve completed your trek, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch and a relaxing afternoon to unwind after an exciting day.

• Accommodation: Lebambou Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Return to Kigali for a City Tour

After breakfast, you’ll leave Volcanoes National Park and drive back to Kigali. Once in the city, you’ll explore key sites including local markets, and drive through different parts of town. A significant stop will be the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you can learn about Rwanda’s tragic history and its efforts to rebuild.

• Accommodation: Mille Collines Hotel
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
• Drive Time: Approximately 2 hours

Day 4: Visit King’s Palace and National Museum

On this day, after an early breakfast, you’ll drive to the Butare region to visit the King’s Palace. Here, you’ll learn about Rwanda’s ancient monarchy and the story of the kings who once ruled the land. After the palace visit, you’ll tour the National Museum, which houses a wealth of information about Rwandan history and culture. You’ll then return to Kigali for dinner and overnight.

• Accommodation: Mille Collines Hotel
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
• Drive Time: Approximately 3 hours

Day 5: Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is open for gorilla trekking year-round, and the chances of seeing gorillas do not depend on the weather. However, the trails can become very slippery during the rainy season, which can make trekking more challenging. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to August, and to a lesser extent, in September, January, and February.

Dry Season: June to August

• The dry season offers drier trails, making hiking easier and more pleasant.
• You’re more likely to experience sunny weather.
• Gorilla trekking is more enjoyable during this time.
• Keep in mind, it can be hard to get a gorilla permit during this peak season.
• Lodges can be fully booked and may charge higher rates.

Wet Season: September to May

• It rains more frequently, usually in the afternoons, with mornings often clear for activities.
• Gorilla permits are easier to obtain, and lodges may offer discounted rates.
• However, the rain can make forest trails slippery and hiking more difficult.
• Wildlife sightings may be affected by reduced visibility due to the rain.