4 Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking in Rwanda
4 Days/ 3 Nights
4 Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking in Rwanda
Overview
Experience the wild beauty of Rwanda on this 4 Days Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking in Rwanda, where you’ll encounter two of Africa’s rarest and most fascinating creatures—the mountain gorillas and the golden monkeys. Starting in the vibrant city of Kigali, this journey takes you deep into the misty jungles of Volcanoes National Park for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience, followed by golden monkey tracking and a cultural city tour.
Perfect for wildlife lovers and those seeking a meaningful connection with nature, this safari combines breathtaking landscapes, close primate encounters, and insight into Rwanda’s incredible conservation success story.
Safari Highlights
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Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
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Golden monkey tracking in the bamboo forests of the Virunga range
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Scenic drive through Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills”
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Kigali city tour and Genocide Memorial visit
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All-inclusive trip: accommodation, meals, permits, and transfers
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4 Days/ 3 Nights
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Rwanda
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Guided, Private Safari
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Airport TransfersCar hireServices of an English-speaking guideRefreshments like waterAll accommodation & MealsAll activitiesAll Taxes /VATA professional driver /guideFuelGorilla permitGolden Monkey permitDrinking water
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Tips and gratuitiesAll items of personal natureInternational flightsAlcoholic drinks
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your professional guide from Trek Africa Expeditions. After a short safari briefing, set off on a scenic drive through Rwanda’s lush countryside, heading northwest to Kinigi, located just outside Volcanoes National Park.
The 2.5-hour drive offers panoramic views of rolling hills, terraced farms, and rural homesteads that define Rwanda’s spectacular highland scenery. Along the way, enjoy glimpses of the towering Virunga Volcanoes, which form the backdrop to your upcoming wildlife adventure.
You’ll arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon and check in. Relax, unwind, and breathe in the crisp mountain air as you prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking.
Accommodation Options:
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Luxury: Virunga Lodge – Stylish stay with panoramic views
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Midrange: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge – Comfortable, eco-friendly lodgings close to the park
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Budget: Hotel Muhabura – A cozy, no-frills option ideal for early park access
Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, head to the Kinigi Park Headquarters, where you’ll meet your expert ranger guides and be briefed on gorilla trekking etiquette. With your gorilla trekking permit in hand, you’ll begin the hike into the forested slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.
Trekking time can range from 1 to 6 hours depending on where the gorillas nested the night before. The trek itself is physically demanding, often passing through thick vegetation and uneven, muddy terrain. However, the moment you come face-to-face with a silverback or see a baby gorilla playing in the foliage, all the effort fades away. You’ll spend a full hour with the gorillas, quietly observing and photographing them in their natural habitat—a magical, humbling encounter you’ll never forget.
After the trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest and a hot meal. Spend your evening enjoying the serene surroundings of your lodge or chatting with fellow travelers about your incredible day.
Accommodation:
Overnight at: Same lodge as previous night
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking & Leisure
After breakfast, you’ll return to the park headquarters for your next primate experience—golden monkey tracking. These rare and playful monkeys are endemic to the Virunga massif and are known for their golden-orange coats and lively behavior.
The tracking experience is generally easier than gorilla trekking and takes about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll hike through bamboo forests, watching the golden monkeys leap from tree to tree, feed on bamboo shoots, and interact within their social groups. It’s a great opportunity for wildlife photography and a fun, active way to enjoy Volcanoes National Park’s diverse ecosystem.
After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure—take a nature walk, sip tea on your terrace, or simply admire the view of the volcanoes.
Overnight at: Same lodge as previous night
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 4: Kigali City Tour and Departure
After breakfast, check out and drive back to Kigali for a brief city tour before your departure flight. Explore Rwanda’s capital city with a guided visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide and a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s journey of healing and unity.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may also have time to visit local markets or craft shops for souvenirs. Later, your guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport, marking the end of your 4-day gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Rwanda.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch
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Suggested Rwanda Safari Ideas
The tours featured throughout our website are intended to give you ideas for what’s possible when you travel with us. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created individually by one of our specialists to match your tastes and budget.
