5-Day Rwanda Safari: Gorillas, Golden Monkeys & Mt. Bisoke
5 DaysSafari Overview
This safari immerses you in Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s iconic mountain gorillas and playful golden monkeys. You’ll trek through lush, dense forest to encounter these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat, then challenge yourself with a hike up Mount Bisoke for sweeping views over the Virungas.
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed by your driver-guide. Depending on your arrival time, you'll enjoy a Kigali city tour, including a visit to the Genocide Memorial Centre for a moving glimpse into Rwanda's history. Afterward, you'll be driven to Musanze, near Volcanoes National Park a scenic two-hour journey. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation, enjoy dinner, and rest up for the adventures ahead.
This day promises to be one of the most memorable of your trip. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. In small groups, you'll set off into the dense forest with experienced guides to track a gorilla family. The trek can be challenging, with steep and muddy paths, but the reward is well worth the effort. Once you find the gorillas, you'll spend an hour observing these gentle giants up close, watching them play, feed, and interact as you gain insight into their daily lives. Afterward, return to the lodge for lunch, then set out to explore the beautiful twin lakes of the region, Bulera and Ruhondo.
After an early breakfast at the lodge, head to Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a golden monkey trekking experience. The trek leads you through lush forests and scenic landscapes, with experienced guides sharing insights along the way about the golden monkeys and the park's rich ecosystem. Once you find them, you'll spend an hour observing these playful primates. Unlike the gorillas, golden monkeys are quick and mischievous, often darting through the trees in a game of hide-and-seek, so be ready to follow their lead.
After breakfast, gather at the park offices for a briefing before setting off on your hike up Mount Bisoke. Standing at 3,711 meters, this dormant volcano is part of the Virunga range. The climb is physically demanding, taking 5 to 7 hours depending on the group's pace, but the reward is breathtaking views from the summit and its crater lake. Afterward, return to your lodge to rest and recover.
After breakfast, you will drive back to Kigali, where you will go on a city tour. During the city tour, you will learn about the history, culture, and people of Rwanda.
After the tour, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
• Accommodation: None (last day)
• Meal plan: Breakfast & Lunch.
Includes
- Park fees (For non-residents)
- Gorilla permits (One per person, non-resident)
- All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinking water
Excludes
- International flights (From/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees