Embark on an unforgettable 3-day adventure to experience the captivating world of gorilla trekking in Rwanda. This once-in-a-lifetime journey will lead you to the heart of Volcanoes National Park, a sanctuary for the endangered mountain gorillas. Your extraordinary encounter with these gentle giants will be the highlight of your trip, but the experience is not limited to just gorillas. You’ll also get the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the lush landscapes, and witness the stunning Twin Lakes. This itinerary is meticulously crafted to make the most of your short stay, ensuring you return home with treasured memories that will last a lifetime.
Brief Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park
Day 2: Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking – Twin Lakes Visit / Community Walk
Day 3: Departure
Now, let’s delve into the detailed itinerary for your three-day gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda:
Day 1: Arrive in Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park
Your remarkable journey begins as you arrive in the vibrant city of Kigali, Rwanda. Kigali International Airport is the main gateway, and upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our friendly staff who will assist with your luggage and transfer you to the enchanting Volcanoes National Park. The journey to the park is a visual delight, as Rwanda’s hilly terrain and lush green landscapes unfold before you.
Upon reaching Volcanoes National Park, you’ll check in at your chosen accommodation, which could be a cozy lodge nestled amidst the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains. The park is renowned for its biodiversity and, most importantly, as a sanctuary for the critically endangered mountain gorillas. The park’s borders span three countries, and it is one of the most significant conservation areas on the planet.
After settling in, you’ll have some free time to relax and acclimatize to your surroundings. This is also an excellent opportunity to visit the local markets if you arrive early in the day. You can explore the local crafts and perhaps purchase some souvenirs to remember your trip. The markets are a fantastic place to engage with the local culture and interact with the friendly Rwandans.
As the sun sets, you’ll be treated to a delicious dinner at the lodge, with traditional Rwandese dishes on the menu. Enjoy a relaxing evening, taking in the serene atmosphere of the forest, and get a good night’s rest in preparation for your exhilarating gorilla trekking experience tomorrow.
Day 2: Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking – Twin Lakes Visit / Community Walk
The highlight of your trip has arrived – the day you get to meet the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas up close. An early start is essential, as you’ll want to make the most of your time with these remarkable creatures. After a hearty breakfast at the lodge, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a gorilla trekking briefing.
At the park headquarters, you’ll be grouped with fellow trekkers and assigned to one of the habituated gorilla families. Each group is led by an experienced guide who will provide you with essential information about gorilla behavior, park regulations, and safety guidelines. This briefing is a crucial part of the experience as it prepares you for your encounter with the gorillas and ensures that you are well-informed about how to approach and interact with them.
Following the briefing, you’ll embark on a journey into the dense, misty forests of Volcanoes National Park, where these incredible creatures call home. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty, depending on the location of your assigned gorilla family. Some treks are relatively short, while others can be more challenging and require several hours of hiking. Regardless of the length, the trek is an adventure in itself, as you traverse the lush vegetation and navigate the steep and sometimes muddy terrain.
Your efforts will be richly rewarded when you come face to face with a mountain gorilla family. Spending time with these gentle giants is a mesmerizing experience. You’ll have a full hour to observe, photograph, and learn about the gorillas’ social structure and behavior from a close but safe distance. The interaction is a truly moving and humbling experience, leaving an indelible mark on your memory.
After your gorilla encounter, you’ll return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch and a chance to relax. In the afternoon, you have the option to visit the Twin Lakes, Burera and Ruhondo. These twin lakes are a picturesque sight, nestled amidst rolling hills and surrounded by lush vegetation. A boat ride on one of the lakes offers a serene and peaceful experience, with the stunning backdrop of the Virunga Mountains.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more culturally immersive experience, you can opt for a community walk. This allows you to engage with the local communities, learn about their way of life, and gain insight into the rich culture and traditions of the Rwandese people. The warmth and hospitality of the locals will leave a lasting impression.
As the day draws to a close, return to your lodge, where a delightful dinner awaits. Share stories of your gorilla trekking adventure with fellow travelers and savor a meal created with locally sourced ingredients.
Day 3: Departure
On your final day in Rwanda, savor a delicious breakfast at your lodge while taking in the serene surroundings one last time. Depending on your departure time, you may have a bit of free time to relax or engage in some optional activities.
One option is to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a place of remembrance and reflection on the tragic events of the 1994 genocide. The memorial provides a sobering but important historical perspective and is a tribute to the lives lost during that period. Alternatively, if time permits, you can explore the local craft markets in Kigali and pick up some final souvenirs to remember your journey.
After your additional activity, you’ll head back to Kigali, where you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport to catch your departing flight. As you bid farewell to Rwanda, you’ll carry with you the memories of an extraordinary adventure and the deep, emotional connection forged during your gorilla trekking experience.
This 3-day gorilla trekking journey in Rwanda is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and wildlife. It’s a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world and the resilience of the human spirit. While the primary focus is on the golden opportunity to encounter the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, this trip also showcases the rich tapestry of Rwanda’s landscapes and its warm and welcoming people. It’s a travel experience that will leave you profoundly moved and forever connected to the remarkable country of Rwanda.
At Volcano Gorilla Tours, a proud division of Pillars of Africa Safaris, we are dedicated to providing exceptional safari experiences that immerse you in the heart of Africa’s wilderness. Our passion is to create unforgettable journeys that bring you closer to nature, wildlife, and the captivating landscapes of the wild.
