Route: Kigali → Volcanoes National Park → Kigali
Ideal For: Primate lovers, photographers, luxury travelers, adventure seekers
Gorilla Permit: $1,500 per person (included in package)
Journey Overview
Step into the realm of the mountain gorilla on this once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of Rwanda. With golden monkeys, ancient volcanoes, and heartfelt cultural experiences, this 5-day private safari is perfect for those seeking meaningful wildlife encounters with comfort and ease.
Led by a professional WildMiles guide, your journey begins in Kigali and ascends into the forested highlands of Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, you’ll meet Rwanda’s welcoming people and stay in carefully selected eco-lodges or luxury retreats near the park.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Rwanda – Kigali City Exploration
Arrive at Kigali International Airport. Meet your personal WildMiles guide and explore the clean, vibrant capital. Visit the Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, and enjoy lunch at a rooftop café.
Accommodation – Kigali:
- Boutique: Heaven Boutique Hotel – Artistic, cozy, and central
- Luxury: The Retreat by Heaven – 5-star wellness luxury with pool & spa
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes NP – Scenic Drive to the Gorillas
After breakfast, journey north through Rwanda’s rolling hills to the town of Musanze, gateway to Volcanoes National Park. Stop for photos of terraced farmlands and lakes. Afternoon options include visiting the twin lakes (Ruhondo & Burera) or Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village.
Accommodation – Near Park:
- Eco-Luxury: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel – Pool, spa, prime location
- Luxury: Bisate Lodge (Wilderness) – Forest villas with volcano views
- Ultra-Luxury: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest – Immersive design, elite service
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking – Face to Face with Giants
Early breakfast, then transfer to park HQ for your gorilla trek briefing. Hike through lush rainforest to find your assigned gorilla family. Once located, spend one magical hour observing their behavior—an emotional and humbling experience.
Trek Difficulty: Moderate – varies from 1 to 5 hours depending on group location
Afternoon Options: Massage, storytelling by local elders, or relaxing at lodge
Overnight:
Same lodge as Day 2
Day 4: Golden Monkeys or Dian Fossey Hike – Enriching Encounters
Choose between tracking playful golden monkeys in the bamboo forest, hiking to Dian Fossey’s grave and research site, or enjoying a cultural visit to a local school or market.
Optional Activity: Canoe trip on Mukungwa River (available seasonally)
Overnight:
Same lodge as Day 2 & 3
Day 5: Return to Kigali – Souvenirs & Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then drive back to Kigali. Stop at a local artisan center for last-minute gifts or visit Nyamirambo Women’s Center for lunch.
Transfer to airport for international flight.
What’s Included
Package Inclusions
- Private 4×4 vehicle with English-speaking guide
- All accommodation with full board (excluding Kigali – B&B)
- Gorilla trekking permit ($1,500 value)
- Park entry and conservation fees
- Bottled drinking water during transfers & activities
- Cultural visit (Iby’Iwacu or community stop)
- Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
Optional Add-ons
- Golden monkey trekking ($100)
- Dian Fossey tomb hike
- Mukungwa River canoeing experience
- Extra gorilla trek (based on availability)
- Kigali day-room use or overnight before departure