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2 Days Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Overview of 2 Days Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
A 2 Days Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park safari is one of the most rewarding short wildlife adventures in Rwanda. Designed for travelers with limited time, this itinerary combines an unforgettable encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas and the stunning landscapes of the Virunga Mountains. Unlike a one-day trek, a two-day safari allows you to travel at a relaxed pace, enjoy comfortable accommodation near the park, and immerse yourself in the culture and natural beauty of northern Rwanda.
Located approximately 110 km from Kigali, Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s premier wildlife destination and home to over a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The park features lush bamboo forests, volcanic peaks, and diverse wildlife, including golden monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes, and more than 200 bird species. Gorilla trekking is carefully managed to protect these magnificent primates while offering visitors an intimate wildlife experience.
During this 2-day adventure, you will travel from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park, passing through Rwanda’s famous rolling hills and vibrant rural communities. On the second day, you will join experienced park rangers and trackers to hike through the rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family. Once located, you will spend one magical hour observing their daily activities, including feeding, grooming, and caring for their young.
This safari is ideal for honeymooners, families with older children, business travelers, photographers, and anyone seeking one of Africa’s greatest wildlife experiences in a short amount of time.
2 Days Gorilla Trekking Volcanoes National Park Itinerary
Day 1: Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Your safari begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport by your professional driver-guide. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a brief Kigali city tour, visiting some of the city’s highlights such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, or a coffee shop where you can sample Rwanda’s world-famous coffee.
After the city tour, drive north towards Volcanoes National Park. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours and offers spectacular views of Rwanda’s countryside, terraced hillsides, and traditional villages.
Upon arrival in Musanze, check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch while taking in the beautiful scenery surrounding the Virunga Volcanoes. In the afternoon, you may relax at the lodge or take an optional cultural visit to the Gorilla Guardians Village to learn about Rwanda’s traditions and conservation efforts.
Accommodation Options
Mid-range
- Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
- Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Luxury
- Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meals: Lunch and Dinner.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Return to Kigali
Wake up early for breakfast before driving to the Kinigi Park Headquarters for registration and the gorilla trekking briefing. Rangers will explain the trekking rules and assign each group to one of the habituated gorilla families based on fitness levels and group size.
At around 8:00 AM, begin your trek through the forest accompanied by experienced guides and trackers. The trek may last anywhere from one to six hours depending on the movement of the gorillas and the assigned family.
As you walk through the rainforest, you may encounter:
- Golden monkeys.
- Unique bird species.
- Beautiful volcanic vegetation.
- Spectacular mountain scenery.
The highlight of the safari comes when you finally meet the mountain gorillas. Visitors are allowed to spend one unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Watch the dominant silverback protect his family, mothers care for their infants, and playful juveniles interact with one another.
After the trek, return to the park headquarters to receive your gorilla trekking certificate. Enjoy lunch before beginning the scenic drive back to Kigali.
Arrive in Kigali in the late afternoon, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Safari Includes
- Gorilla trekking permit.
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
- One night’s accommodation.
- Meals as specified.
- Bottled drinking water.
- Park ranger services.
- Hotel and airport transfers.
- Gorilla trekking certificate.
Safari Excludes
- International flights.
- Rwanda visa fees.
- Travel insurance.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Personal expenses.
- Optional activities.
What to Pack
For a comfortable gorilla trekking experience, we recommend bringing:
- Waterproof hiking boots.
- Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts.
- Rain jacket.
- Gardening gloves.
- Small backpack.
- Camera without flash.
- Sunscreen.
- Insect repellent.
- Drinking water.
- Personal medication.
