Road Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkeys Tour adventure begins as you arrive at Kigali International Airport. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you, assist with your luggage, and transfer you to your waiting vehicle for the scenic road journey to Volcanoes National Park. Located in the northwest of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

The road transfer from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Along the way, you’ll pass through Rwanda’s lush countryside, filled with terraced hillsides, quaint villages, and vibrant local markets. This journey offers a glimpse of rural Rwandan life and the majestic landscapes that make the country so captivating.

As you approach the park, you’ll begin to notice the towering peaks of the Virunga Volcanoes, an awe-inspiring sight that will mark the beginning of your gorilla trekking adventure. The Virunga Mountains are home to the mountain gorillas, and their dense forests and misty landscapes create the perfect environment for these majestic creatures to thrive.

Check-in the Lodge

Upon arrival at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park, you will check in, relax, and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking experience. The evening will be spent at leisure, enjoying a delicious dinner, and perhaps a drink while admiring the panoramic views of the park’s volcanic peaks. This is the perfect time to rest and recharge in preparation for the exciting adventure that lies ahead.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking and Afternoon Visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

Day 2 marks the highlight of your 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkeys Tour: mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a thorough briefing on the rules and regulations of gorilla trekking. Your group will be assigned to a specific gorilla family based on availability and the location of the gorillas. Each trek can vary in duration, as the gorillas can roam across the park’s vast terrain. However, the journey is always rewarding, as it brings you face to face with these magnificent primates.

The gorilla trek begins with a hike through the dense forest, where you’ll follow the trail left by the gorilla family. The terrain can be rugged and steep, and the trek itself can last anywhere from one to four hours. Along the way, your experienced 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkeys Tour guide will provide fascinating insights into the gorillas’ behavior, ecology, and conservation efforts.

Once you find the gorilla family, you will be allowed one hour to observe them. The experience of sitting just meters away from these powerful yet gentle creatures is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re watching a silverback gorilla assert its dominance, a mother grooming her infant, or juveniles playing, the interaction with these incredible animals is unforgettable. The time spent with the gorillas is an emotional and awe-inspiring experience, and the moments you share with them will stay with you forever.

Afternoon Visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

After the trek, you’ll return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you will visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a critical institution dedicated to the protection and research of gorillas. The fund, named after the renowned primatologist Dian Fossey, has played a pivotal role in the conservation of mountain gorillas since its inception. During your visit, you’ll learn about the challenges and triumphs of gorilla conservation, as well as the ongoing research that helps ensure the future of these endangered creatures.

The visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is both educational and inspiring. You will gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between humans and gorillas, as well as the importance of preserving these majestic animals for future generations. After the visit, you’ll return to your lodge to relax and reflect on your day, perhaps enjoying another delicious meal while taking in the stunning surroundings.

Transfer to Kigali Airport for Departure

On the final day of your tour, you will embark on a golden monkey tracking experience. Golden monkeys are one of the most charming and rare primates found in Volcanoes National Park. These playful and lively creatures are known for their bright golden-orange fur and are often found in the bamboo forests of the park. Golden monkey tracking is generally less strenuous than gorilla trekking, making it a delightful way to end your 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkeys Tour adventure.

After a briefing at the park headquarters, your guide will lead you into the forest to search for the golden monkeys. The trek is usually short and relatively easy, as the golden monkeys are typically found in the bamboo zones of the park. Watching these monkeys leap from tree to tree, interact with each other, and forage for food is an exhilarating experience, especially when you witness their agility and curiosity up close.

Afternoon Transfer to Kigali Airport for Departure

After spending time with the golden monkeys, you’ll return to your lodge for a quick meal before beginning your road transfer back to Kigali International Airport. The drive back to Kigali takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, providing a final opportunity to soak in the beauty of Rwanda’s countryside. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a brief city tour of Kigali, where you can explore the bustling capital’s highlights, such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial or local craft markets.

Upon arrival at the airport, your 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkeys Tour guide will assist you with your check-in procedures and bid you farewell as you board your flight, bringing your unforgettable Rwanda adventure to a close.