4 Days Rwanda Golden Monkeys & Gorilla Trekking Safari

Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a captivating country that offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and remarkable wildlife. One of the country’s most extraordinary attractions is its incredible primate population, including the endangered Golden Monkeys and the awe-inspiring Mountain Gorillas. The 4 Days Rwanda Golden Monkeys & Gorilla Trekking Safari, offered by Renai Venture Safaris, is designed to offer an immersive experience that takes you into the heart of Volcanoes National Park. Over four action-packed days, you’ll have the opportunity to track golden monkeys, learn about gorilla conservation efforts, and trek through the mist-covered forests in search of one of the world’s most majestic creatures: the mountain gorillas.

This guide will walk you through every detail of this remarkable 4 Days Rwanda Golden Monkeys & Gorilla Trekking Safari experience. From your arrival in Kigali to your visits to Volcanoes National Park and the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, every moment is designed to offer you an unforgettable adventure.

 

Detailed 4 Days Rwanda Golden Monkeys & Gorilla Trekking Safari

Day 1: Arrival at Kigali Airport and Transfer to Hotel – Check-in at Hotel Des Mille Collines

Arriving in Rwanda’s Capital City

Your journey begins the moment you land at Kigali International Airport. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a Renai Venture Safaris representative who will provide a warm welcome to Rwanda. Your guide will assist with your luggage and arrange your transfer to your accommodation.

The transfer to Hotel Des Mille Collines, a luxury hotel located in Kigali’s city center, takes approximately 30 minutes. The hotel is a perfect place to unwind after your flight, offering a comfortable and peaceful environment. Hotel Des Mille Collines is known for its excellent service and historical significance, as it played a vital role during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The hotel’s elegant rooms offer a relaxing atmosphere, with views of Kigali’s rolling hills and bustling city life.

Relax and Explore Kigali

After checking in, you can spend the rest of the day at leisure. Whether you choose to relax and unwind in the hotel or explore the surrounding area, this is your opportunity to familiarize yourself with Rwanda’s vibrant capital. The hotel’s restaurant offers delicious local and international cuisine, perfect for your first taste of Rwandan delicacies.

  • Pickup from Kigali International Airport.
  • Hotel Des Mille Collines accommodation with dinner.
  • Comfortable room for rest after your flight.
  • Meals provided by the hotel.
Day 2: Morning Kigali City Tour and Afternoon Transfer to Volcanoes National Park (Iby’Iwachu Cultural Experience)

Morning Kigali City Tour: A Glimpse into Rwanda’s Heart

On the second day of your 4 Days Rwanda Golden Monkeys & Gorilla Trekking Safari, after a hearty breakfast at Hotel Des Mille Collines, your guide will take you on a Kigali city tour. Kigali is a dynamic city known for its cleanliness, safety, and warm hospitality. The city tour will give you an insight into Rwanda’s vibrant culture and the nation’s inspiring journey of recovery after the genocide. During the tour, you will visit:

  • Kigali Genocide Memorial: A deeply moving site that provides a historical account of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. This memorial is a place of remembrance and education, where you’ll learn about the country’s tragic past and the resilience of its people.
  • Kigali Convention Centre: This modern architectural masterpiece is a symbol of Rwanda’s growth and progress. The center is a hub for international conferences and is one of the city’s most iconic structures.
  • Nyamirambo District: This neighborhood is known for its lively atmosphere, where you can visit local markets, experience vibrant street life, and buy handmade crafts.

The tour provides an excellent opportunity to connect with Rwanda’s history and culture.

Afternoon Transfer to Volcanoes National Park and Iby’Iwachu Cultural Experience

In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park. The journey takes approximately two and a half to three hours, offering you beautiful views of Rwanda’s countryside, which is dotted with rolling hills and terraced farms.

Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, you’ll take part in the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Experience, where you’ll interact with the indigenous Banyarwanda people. You’ll learn about their traditional ways of life, watch cultural dances, listen to stories passed down through generations, and discover how the community has been involved in gorilla conservation efforts. The evening ends with a delicious Rwandan meal, providing you with an authentic cultural experience.

  • Kigali city tour.
  • Scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park.
  • Iby’Iwachu cultural experience.
  • Overnight accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park and Visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

Golden Monkey Tracking: An Adventure in Volcanoes National Park

Prepare for a thrilling adventure as you embark on Golden Monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park. Golden monkeys are one of Rwanda’s most iconic and endangered species. You will be led by expert rangers who will guide you through the park’s lush bamboo forests in search of these fascinating primates.

The trek usually lasts about two to three hours, depending on where the monkeys are located. These social and playful creatures are known for their vibrant orange fur and their energetic behavior, making them a joy to observe. During the trek, you’ll have the opportunity to photograph the monkeys as they leap through the trees and interact with one another in their natural environment.

Visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund: Honoring a Conservation Hero

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, one of the most important research institutions in the world for the conservation of mountain gorillas. The fund was established by Dian Fossey, the legendary American primatologist who dedicated her life to studying and protecting gorillas in the Virunga Mountains.

At the center, you’ll learn about Fossey’s pioneering work in gorilla conservation, her field studies, and the challenges faced in protecting these incredible creatures. You’ll also have the chance to see some of the research projects and meet the dedicated team working tirelessly to safeguard the gorillas.

After this enriching visit, you’ll return to your lodge for a relaxing evening. Reflect on the day’s experiences, relax with a meal, and prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure the next day.

  • Golden Monkey tracking permit and park fees.
  • Visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
  • Overnight accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Afternoon Transfer to Kigali Airport for Departure

Mountain Gorilla Trekking: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

On your final day in Rwanda, you’ll embark on one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in the world: Mountain Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the park headquarters, where you’ll receive a briefing from the rangers about safety guidelines and trekking procedures.

With the guidance of expert rangers, you’ll trek into the dense forest, which can take between 2 to 6 hours, depending on where the gorillas are located. Once you find the gorilla family, you will have one hour to observe them. Watching these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is truly a humbling experience. You’ll witness their interactions, watch the playful young gorillas, and observe the dominance of the silverbacks as they move through the forest.

The moment you spend with the gorillas will stay with you forever. The powerful yet gentle nature of these animals will leave you with a profound appreciation for their conservation.

Transfer to Kigali and Departure

After your unforgettable experience with the mountain gorillas, you’ll return to your lodge for a short break before embarking on a scenic road transfer back to Kigali. The drive will take about two and a half hours. On arrival in Kigali, you’ll be dropped off at Kigali International Airport for your departure.

  • Mountain Gorilla trekking permit and park fees.
  • Scenic road transfer to Kigali International Airport.
  • Drop-off at the airport for your flight.
  • Meals provided by the lodge.

4 Days Rwanda Golden Monkeys & Gorilla Trekking Safari Inclusions an Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

  • Accommodation: Full-board accommodation in comfortable lodges and hotels.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as specified in the itinerary.
  • Transfers: Road transfers between Kigali and Volcanoes National Park in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Gorilla Trekking Permit: Permit for mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
  • Golden Monkey Tracking Permit: Permit for golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park.
  • Experienced Guide: Services of a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide throughout the tour.
  • Park Fees: All park entrance fees and conservation fees for Volcanoes National Park.
  • Visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund: Entrance to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and educational briefing.
  • Safari Vehicle: Comfortable, air-conditioned safari vehicle for all transfers and activities.
  • Cultural Experience: Insights into Rwanda’s culture and the significance of the primates.

Safari Exclusions

  • International Flights: Flights to and from Rwanda are not included.
  • Visa Fees: Any visa fees required for entry into Rwanda.
  • Personal Expenses: Drinks, souvenirs, tips, and other personal expenses are not included.
  • Optional Activities: Any activities not specifically included in the itinerary.
  • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance for emergencies, cancellations, or other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Medical Expenses: Any medical treatment or medications required during the trip.

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