Request this trip
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Musanze
Welcome to Rwanda! Upon arrival in Kigali, meet your guide and, time permitting, enjoy an optional city tour featuring the Kigali Genocide Memorial or local art galleries. Then, embark on a scenic 2.5-hour drive north through Rwanda’s famed “Land of a Thousand Hills” to Musanze, gateway to Volcanoes National Park.
Settle into your lodge nestled near the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains. Enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening, with a detailed briefing about your upcoming treks. The journey has just begun, but the anticipation is already high — tomorrow brings your first close encounter with wild mountain gorillas.
| LUXURY LODGES AND CAMPS | MID - RANGE LODGES & CAMPS | BUDGET LODGES &CAMPS |
|---|---|---|
|
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel |
Volcano View Lodge |
Hotel Muhabura |
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Volcano View Lodge
Hotel Muhabura
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, you’ll head to park headquarters for a briefing by expert rangers. You’ll be assigned a gorilla family and trekking group, then begin your ascent into the lush montane forest. The hike may take 1–6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but every step is worth it.
When you find your assigned group, you’ll spend a powerful, awe-inspiring hour observing them—feeding, playing, even making eye contact. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment few ever experience. Return to your lodge for lunch and rest. Spend the afternoon reflecting on the magic, perhaps with a massage or a quiet evening by the fire.
| LUXURY LODGES AND CAMPS | MID - RANGE LODGES & CAMPS | BUDGET LODGES &CAMPS |
|---|---|---|
|
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodg |
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge |
Kinigi Guest House |
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Kinigi Guest House
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking & Optional Cultural Visit
Begin your day with a gentle trek to observe golden monkeys—an endangered species found only in the Virunga region. These playful, curious primates dart through the bamboo forest in lively troops, making for fantastic photo opportunities. The trek is shorter and easier than gorilla trekking, offering a lighter but equally memorable experience.
Return to your lodge for lunch and a relaxed afternoon. You may choose to visit a nearby village for a taste of local Rwandan culture, or simply enjoy the peace of the mountain surroundings. Whether adventuring or unwinding, today offers the perfect balance of discovery and rest.
| LUXURY LODGES AND CAMPS | MID - RANGE LODGES & CAMPS | BUDGET LODGES &CAMPS |
|---|---|---|
|
Bisate Lodge |
Sabinyo Silverback Lodge |
La Palme Hotel |
Bisate Lodge
Sabinyo Silverback Lodge
La Palme Hotel
Day 4: Twin Lakes Boat Tour or Dian Fossey Legacy Hike
Today, choose your own adventure. Option 1: take a peaceful boat tour across the scenic Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Glide past islands and meet local fishermen, all while enjoying postcard-perfect views of the volcanoes. Option 2: hike to Dian Fossey’s grave and the Karisoke Research Center ruins, learning about the legendary primatologist’s life and her conservation legacy.
Whichever path you choose, the experience will deepen your connection to Rwanda’s nature and history. In the evening, gather around the campfire for local storytelling and warm hospitality at your lodge—your final night near the gorillas.
| LUXURY LODGES AND CAMPS | MID - RANGE LODGES & CAMPS | BUDGET LODGES &CAMPS |
|---|---|---|
|
Bisate Lodge |
Sabinyo Silverback Lodge |
La Palme Hotel |
Bisate Lodge
Sabinyo Silverback Lodge
La Palme Hotel
Day 5: Scenic Return to Kigali – Departure
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before starting your journey back to Kigali. The drive offers beautiful views and time to reflect on your encounters with Rwanda’s rare primates. Depending on your flight schedule, you may stop at local markets for handcrafted souvenirs or explore a museum like the Kandt House or Inema Arts Centre.
Your guide will ensure a timely drop-off at Kigali International Airport. As you depart, carry with you memories of magical forests, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and the spirit of Rwanda — a small country with an enormous heart.
Price Per Person
Low Season (April, May & November)
Quote for 7 Days Gurumeti River Great Migration Crossing
| GS | PP |
|---|---|
|
2 |
USD 5000 |
|
3 |
USD 5000 |
|
4 |
USD 5000 |
|
5 |
USD 5000 |
|
6 |
USD 5000 |
High Season (Rest of the Year)
Quote for 7 Days Gurumeti River Great Migration Crossing
| GS | PP |
|---|---|
|
2 |
USD 5000 |
|
3 |
USD 5000 |
|
4 |
USD 5000 |
|
5 |
USD 5000 |
|
6 |
USD 5000 |
- Price Includes
Transport as described in the itinerary
Safari activities-unlimited day game drives, nature walks, hiking and walks with local people (where specified), English-speaking driver-guide, expert local guides where necessary
All National Park and Conservancy fees
Accommodation as described in the itinerary (double/twin or triple rooms)
All meals while on safari-breakfasts, lunches (picnic lunch boxes when necessary) and dinners
Bottled drinking water during game drives
Flying Doctor emergency evacuation cover
- Price Excludes
- Entry Visas
- Airport transfers
- Activities cited as “optional” in the itinerary
- Travel Insurance
- Single Room Supplements.
- Personal spending-services or meals not mentioned as included, beverages in hotels, telephone calls and laundry etc.
- Tips/Gratuities (Kenya policy)
- Extra costs incurred as a result of alterations to the original tour plan e.g. different accommodations and services
Related Tours
- 8 Days
- Migration Crossing
Chimpanzee safari in Gombe and Mahale Mountain National
From $ 5400
Tailor Your Journey
Speak with our travel experts to create a personalized itinerary just for you. From safaris to beach escapes, we craft experiences that match your style and schedule.
