3-Day Volcanoes Gorilla Tour
Your journey begins upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, where you will be met by your professional guide from Nakra Safaris Uganda. After a warm welcome and a quick briefing on the tour, you will embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, approximately 2.5 hours away.
The drive offers beautiful views of Rwanda’s lush countryside, terraced hills, and small rural villages. You’ll pass through picturesque landscapes, including views of Mount Karisimbi and Mount Visoke, two of the park’s renowned volcanoes, as you approach the park.
Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, you will check into your lodge, where you will spend the next two nights. The park offers a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury, all offering stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes and forests.
In the evening, you can relax at your lodge, enjoy a warm meal, and prepare for the exciting day ahead.
Overnight: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for your gorilla trekking briefing. Here, the rangers will give you important guidelines on how to behave around the gorillas, as well as safety precautions. You will also be assigned to a specific gorilla family, based on your trekking group and physical fitness.
Volcanoes National Park is home to several habituated gorilla families, and each trek is unique. Depending on which family you are assigned, the trek may vary in length and difficulty, as the gorillas move through the forest and volcanic slopes in search of food.
Once briefed, your group will begin the gorilla trek through the dense forest and bamboo thickets. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. The terrain is often steep and challenging, but the excitement of coming face-to-face with the gorillas makes every step worth it.
Once you locate the gorilla family, you will have one hour to observe them. The experience of watching these gentle and intelligent creatures interact with each other, especially the playful infants and the dominant silverback, is truly unforgettable. You will be able to take photos, but the focus is on observing these incredible animals in their natural environment, ensuring minimal disruption to their behaviors.
After your thrilling trek, you will return to your lodge to relax and reflect on the unforgettable experience. You can take time to unwind with a delicious lunch or enjoy the stunning surroundings of the park.
In the afternoon, you may opt to visit the Iby'iwacu Cultural Village, located near the park, to learn about the traditional culture and heritage of Rwanda. You can engage with local communities, witness traditional dances, or explore Rwanda’s agricultural practices.
Overnight: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
On your final day, you will have the opportunity to go on another gorilla trekking expedition, where you will be assigned to a different gorilla family than the previous day. This gives you the chance to observe different gorilla behaviors and learn more about their daily lives in the wild.
The second trek may take you to another part of the park, and the terrain and conditions may vary, offering you a different experience compared to the first day. Whether you encounter a playful young gorilla or the majestic silverback, this second opportunity to interact with the gorillas will deepen your understanding of these incredible creatures and their environment.
After your trek, you will return to your lodge to freshen up, enjoy lunch, and check out. Your guide will then take you back to Kigali in time for your departure flight. During the drive, you will have the chance to reflect on the amazing experiences you’ve had over the last few days and enjoy one last glimpse of Rwanda’s stunning landscapes.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore Kigali or visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s history and its journey toward reconciliation and healing.
You will then be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your flight home or onward journey.
End of Tour
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All airport transfers
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Accommodation in lodges as specified
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Gorilla trekking permits for two days in Volcanoes National Park
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Services of an experienced English-speaking guide
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Park entrance fees
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Transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle
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All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during your stay at the lodge
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Bottled water during treks and game drives
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Cultural visits and community engagement (optional)
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International flights
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Visa fees
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Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, tips)
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Optional activities not specified in the itinerary.
The 3-Day Volcanoes Gorilla Tour is an incredible opportunity to witness one of the world’s most captivating wildlife experiences. Tracking the endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. With the support and expertise of Nakra Safaris Uganda, this tour ensures a smooth and seamless journey, from the initial welcome in Kigali to the moment you leave the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or simply seeking an adventure in one of the most beautiful places on earth, this gorilla trekking tour is a must-do for any nature lover.
