2-Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Safari Overview

This safari takes you to Volcanoes National Park, it is Rwanda’s most renowned wildlife destination and one of the best places in the world to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Set within the breathtaking Virunga Mountains, the park is characterized by lush rainforests, bamboo forests, and scenic volcanic landscapes. This 2-day safari offers an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience, combined with a scenic drive through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside before returning to Kigali.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your safari begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport by your professional driver-guide. After a short safari briefing, you will depart Kigali and embark on a scenic drive north to Volcanoes National Park, a journey of approximately 2½ to 3 hours. Along the way, you will pass through Rwanda’s picturesque rolling hills, terraced farms, and vibrant rural villages, offering wonderful views of the country’s stunning landscapes.

Upon arrival at your lodge near the park, you will check in and enjoy lunch before spending the afternoon at leisure. You may choose to relax at the lodge while enjoying the spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes or simply unwind in preparation for the next day’s adventure. Later in the evening, your guide will brief you on the gorilla trekking guidelines and what to expect during the experience. Dinner will be served at the lodge, followed by an overnight stay.

Accommodation Options;

Kiningi Guest House (Budget)

Le Bambo Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range)

Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel (Luxury)

Day 2: Gorilla Tracking and Transfer Back to Kigali

After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi for registration and a briefing by the park rangers. During the briefing, you will be assigned to a habituated gorilla family and introduced to the trekking rules before heading into the forest with experienced ranger guides and trackers.

The trek can take between one and six hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. As you hike through the lush forest and volcanic terrain, your guides will help track the gorillas while sharing insights about the park’s unique ecosystem. Once the gorillas are located, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing them as they feed, play, groom, and interact in their natural habitat—a truly once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter.

After the trek, you will return to the park headquarters to receive your gorilla trekking certificate before enjoying lunch. Thereafter, you will begin the scenic drive back to Kigali, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. Upon arrival, your guide will transfer you to your hotel or Kigali International Airport, marking the end of your memorable 2-day gorilla trekking safari.

End of Safari