6 Days Rwanda Gorilla & Volcano Safari

Overview

The 6 Days Rwanda Gorilla & Volcano Safari is a compact yet immersive journey into Rwanda’s most iconic wilderness region—Volcanoes National Park. This itinerary is designed for travellers seeking a deeper mountain experience that combines gorilla trekking, volcano hiking, golden monkey encounters, and cultural exploration in one of Africa’s most dramatic highland landscapes.

Set against the backdrop of the Virunga volcanic chain, this safari offers a powerful blend of adventure and conservation-driven wildlife experiences. Beyond the legendary mountain gorillas, the region is home to golden monkeys, scenic crater lakes, lush bamboo forests, and panoramic views that stretch across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This safari is ideal for adventure travellers, trekkers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts looking for a more active primate-focused experience in Rwanda.

Tour Highlights

Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Hike one of the Virunga volcanoes (optional Mount Bisoke or Karisimbi experience depending on fitness level).
Golden monkey tracking in bamboo forests.
Scenic exploration of Rwanda’s volcanic highlands.
Visit to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for authentic Rwandan heritage experience.
Kigali city tour including key cultural and historical sites.
Luxury and midrange eco-lodge stays near Volcanoes National Park.
Professional ranger-guided trekking experiences in protected rainforest ecosystems.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your safari driver-guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on arrival time, you may relax or take a short introductory tour of Kigali, a city known for its cleanliness, order, and vibrant cultural life.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel / The Retreat by Heaven
Midrange: Hotel Des Mille Collines / Four Points by Sheraton Kigali

Day 2: Kigali City Tour & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, enjoy a guided Kigali city tour including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and artisan craft centers. Later, depart for Volcanoes National Park, driving through Rwanda’s breathtaking terraced hills and rural countryside. Arrive in the afternoon and settle into your lodge near the park.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Bisate Lodge / One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Midrange: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Early morning transfer to park headquarters for briefing before beginning your gorilla trekking adventure. The trek takes you deep into the misty rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family. Once located, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing their behavior, social interactions, and daily life.

This experience is physically demanding but deeply rewarding, offering one of the most powerful wildlife encounters on earth.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Singita Kwitonda Lodge / Bisate Lodge
Midrange: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking & Cultural Experience

After breakfast, return to Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey tracking. These lively primates are found in bamboo zones and are known for their energetic movements and playful behavior, making them a photographer’s favorite.

In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about traditional Rwandan life, including dance, music, healing practices, and historical storytelling.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest / Bisate Lodge
Midrange: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Day 5: Volcano Hike (Bisoke or Karisimbi Option)

Today is dedicated to a volcano hiking experience within the Virunga range. Depending on fitness level and weather conditions, you may hike Mount Bisoke, known for its beautiful crater lake, or undertake a more challenging trek toward Mount Karisimbi, the highest of the Virunga volcanoes.

The hike offers stunning views of lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and surrounding countries, providing a completely different perspective of Rwanda’s natural beauty.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Bisate Lodge / Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Midrange: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Day 6: Return to Kigali & Departure

After breakfast, depart Volcanoes National Park and drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy optional shopping or a short city visit before transfer to Kigali International Airport for departure.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: N/A (Departure Day)

Midrange: N/A (Departure Day)

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off transfers
Accommodation in luxury or midrange lodges and hotels
Gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park
Golden monkey tracking permit
Volcano hiking permit (Bisoke or Karisimbi depending on itinerary)
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
4×4 safari vehicle transportation
Kigali city tour
Iby’Iwacu cultural village visit
Bottled drinking water during transfers and excursions
Full board or half board meals as per lodge arrangements
Government taxes and service charges

Exclusions

International flights
Rwanda visa fees
Travel insurance
Optional premium beverages
Additional optional trekking or activities not listed
Laundry services
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and lodge staff
Extra accommodation nights outside itinerary
Any services not explicitly mentioned in inclusions