Rwanda’s flagship safari. From Kigali it is only two hours to Musanze, the base for Volcanoes National Park, where twelve habituated gorilla families range across the bamboo slopes of the Virungas. Permits are limited to 96 per day, so this trip is built around securing yours early.
Itinerary
- Day 1 — Kigali city tour (Genocide Memorial, local markets), scenic drive to Musanze; afternoon Gorilla Guardians cultural village visit. Overnight near Kinigi.
- Day 2 — Gorilla trekking: briefing at Kinigi at 07:00, trek from 1–4 hours depending on your allocated family, then a strictly-timed magical hour with the gorillas. Afternoon at leisure or visit the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
- Day 3 — Optional golden monkey trek ($100) or Dian Fossey tomb hike, then return to Kigali for your evening flight.
What’s included
- Gorilla trekking permit ($1,500 — the single largest cost of any Rwanda safari)
- 2 nights mid-range accommodation, full board
- 4×4 vehicle with driver-guide, all transfers
- Kigali city tour and cultural village visit
Not included
- Golden monkey permit ($100) and Dian Fossey hike ($75) — optional
- Porter at the trailhead (about $10, recommended)
- Tips, drinks and personal items
Understand the full cost breakdown in our gorilla trekking cost guide.