Day 1: Kigali – Volcanoes National Park

Your 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla & Golden Monkey Safari begins with pickup in Kigali. Meet your professional safari guide and drive north toward Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, enjoy Rwanda’s spectacular countryside, often referred to as the Land of a Thousand Hills.

Upon arrival in the Musanze area, check into your lodge and relax. You can use the afternoon to explore the area or simply prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure the following morning.

Overnight: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking – Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for your gorilla trekking briefing.

You will then enter the forest with experienced park guides and trackers in search of your assigned mountain gorilla family. The trek can take several hours depending on the location of the gorillas and the terrain.

Once you locate the gorillas, enjoy an unforgettable encounter observing their behavior, interactions and family dynamics in their natural habitat.

After the trek, return to your lodge for relaxation.

Overnight: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking – Kigali

After breakfast, head back into Volcanoes National Park for your golden monkey trekking experience.

The endangered golden monkeys are found in the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains. Their energetic behavior and distinctive appearance make them a fascinating species to observe and photograph.

After the trek, begin your return journey to Kigali.

Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport or your preferred location in Kigali.

End of your 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla & Golden Monkey Safari.

Why Choose This 3-Day Rwanda Safari?

This itinerary offers an excellent combination of gorilla trekking and golden monkey trekking in Rwanda without requiring a long vacation.

The safari is particularly suitable for travelers who want to add a Rwanda gorilla experience to a wider East African trip. It can be combined with Uganda gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, Kenya’s Maasai Mara, Tanzania’s Serengeti or a longer Rwanda safari.

Best Time for Gorilla & Golden Monkey Trekking

Rwanda’s primate trekking experiences are available throughout the year. The drier periods are particularly popular because hiking trails can be easier to navigate.

The wetter seasons offer lush green forests and beautiful scenery, although trekking can be more challenging. Because gorilla trekking permits are limited, it is advisable to book your safari and permits well in advance.