About this experience
This 3 days Rwanda gorillas and golden monkeys tracking tour offers the mountain gorilla trek as the prime adventure on this 3 day trip to the Volcanoes National Park – home to a third of the 900 mountains gorillas left in the world. Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s part of the Virunga Mountains which is a chain of beautiful volcanoes that cut across the borders with DR Congo and Uganda. The Virunga Mountains are also home to the golden monkeys, an endangered species of monkeys that is only found in the Virungas. They are incredibly beautiful, very active and you shall find tracking a group of about 100 members a worthwhile adventure.
At a glance
- Duration: 72 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 72 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What is included
- Drinking water
- Airport/Departure Tax
- Golden Monkey
- Canoe Ride Fee
- All meals
- Safari car and tour driver driver/guide
- Accommodation
Not included
- Gorilla tracking permit fees ($1500)
- Optional activities ,Visa fees , Personal insurance, Airfares Tips
Itinerary and highlights
Day 1 – Journey to Volcanoes National Park, Afternoon Canoe Excursion
Your adventure begins with a prompt 8 am pickup from your Kigali hotel by your guide, who will then escort you on a scenic drive to Musanze in the north of Rwanda, a journey of approximately 2 hours.
At 2 pm, embark on a delightful half-day canoe voyage along River Mukungwa, spanning 3 to 4 hours. This serene journey unveils the picturesque countryside, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of rolling landscapes, encounters with locals, and glimpses of various wildlife, including an array of birds.
Accommodation Options:
Budget: La Locanda (option you are paying)
Midrange: Le Bamboo Gorilla Lodge
Upmarket: Five Volcanoes Lodge/The Bishop’s House
Luxury: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge/Virunga Lodge
Day 2 – Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today's highlight is an exhilarating gorilla trekking expedition within Volcanoes National Park. Begin by transferring to the visitor’s center in Kinigi at 7:00 am for a briefing by park guides on park regulations and gorilla tracking protocols. Following this, embark on the trek into the park, where the search for gorillas begins. The trek typically lasts around 3 hours, though duration may vary depending on gorilla movements. Along the way, marvel at the awe-inspiring vistas of the Virunga mountains and rolling hills, and discover rare plant species vital to gorillas' sustenance and medicinal needs. A maximum of 1 hour is permitted for gorilla viewing.
Day 3 – Golden Monkey Tracking and Return to Kigali
Venture once more into the Virungas for an enchanting golden monkey tracking experience. These unique primates, exclusive to the Virunga mountains, inhabit the bamboo forests in the mountains' lower regions. The trek is relatively light, with the possibility of encountering the monkeys in under an hour. With their captivating presence, they offer excellent photography opportunities. A maximum viewing time of 1 hour is allotted.
Following the golden monkey tracking, you'll transfer back to Kigali, concluding your memorable journey through Rwanda's stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Meeting and pickup information
- Kigali International Airport is a starting point of our tour but if you would like us to offer you a pick-up service from where you will be. Please mention it with your location in booking form or you call us to inform us about your location any time before tour kick off.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- French — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- 1000 Hills Safaris
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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