Mountain Gorilla Safari: Day-by-day
More detailed information of what each day entails, and the various places you’ll stay on the Mountain Gorilla Safari. Everything we do is completely tailor-made so while this is an idea which works well, we’ll always design an itinerary just for you.
Starts: Kigali International Airport
Kigali to Volcanoes National Park with your private guide
Meet your guide at Kigali Airport then hop into your private 4WD for the drive through the vibrant, sprawling capital, Kigali. Stop if you wish – you decide your schedule with your guide – before driving north-west, through lush hills and bustling market towns for about 2 hours, to the peaks and forests of Volcanoes National Park.
Mountain Gorilla View
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, previously called Gorilla Mountain View Lodge, is located on the slopes of Rwanda’s Mount Sabyinyo. A good mid-range hotel set in spacious grounds, it has beautiful views of the surrounding volcanoes and is only a 15-minute drive from the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park, which is the starting point for gorilla trekking.
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, previously called Gorilla Mountain View Lodge, is located on the slopes of Rwanda’s Mount Sabyinyo. A good mid-range hotel set in spacious grounds, it has beautiful views of the surrounding volcanoes and is only a 15-minute drive from the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park, which is the starting point for gorilla trekking.
"The staff was great and food was very good"
Rusty HudakfromStowArrived 21 Jul 2019, 3 nights
We really like Mountain Gorilla View Lodge. It is a very comfortable hotel with spacious cottages, friendly staff and a great location. Don’t come here expecting luxury, but if you are looking for a relaxed lodge that shouldn’t break the bank, it could be a good choice. See our full report on Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Activities
Canoeing
Cultural excursion
Helicopter
Primate trekking
Golden Monkey Trekking
Spend a morning trekking to find the golden monkeys in the Volcanoes National Park. These endangered monkeys are endemic to the Albertine Rift area and, as the name would suggest, are characterised by their golden-orange fur. You’ll be able to enjoy an hour watching them jump through the bamboo forests and hunker to chew thistles, curiously watching you, as you watch them. Read all about Golden Monkey Trekking
Gorilla Trekking Safari
Look into the eyes of a large silverback gorilla and he'll look back with a thoughtful, intelligent gaze, mindful that you're another individual. Any apprehensions or nerves you might have had during your trek will melt away the minute you see your gorilla family. Gorilla trekking safaris offer a magical encounter that transcends any other 'wildlife' experience we know. Read all about Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla Trekking Safari
Look into the eyes of a large silverback gorilla and he'll look back with a thoughtful, intelligent gaze, mindful that you're another individual. Any apprehensions or nerves you might have had during your trek will melt away the minute you see your gorilla family. Gorilla trekking safaris offer a magical encounter that transcends any other 'wildlife' experience we know. Read all about Gorilla Trekking
Volcanoes National Park to your hotel in Kigali with your private guide
It’s a leisurely three-hour drive south-east to reach your guesthouse in Kigali. Some travellers then prefer to relax and rest, others will explore Kigali a little on their own, and quite a few will ask us to build in a trip to a Genocide memorial location, or some other additional activities with their guide.
Heaven Hotel
Heaven Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of downtown Kigali, though as it’s perched on one of Rwanda's many hills or collines it has some great views out across the city. Often used for a stopover before or after heading to the airport, it’s simple and great-value, with an emphasis on community involvement. In 2020 it underwent some changes and was renamed the Heaven Boutique Hotel Residence, with improved rooms.
Heaven Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of downtown Kigali, though as it’s perched on one of Rwanda's many hills or collines it has some great views out across the city. Often used for a stopover before or after heading to the airport, it’s simple and great-value, with an emphasis on community involvement. In 2020 it underwent some changes and was renamed the Heaven Boutique Hotel Residence, with improved rooms.
"Nice small hotel with friendly staff"
Dr PfromNetherlandsArrived 7 Feb 2020, 2 nights
Heaven Boutique Hotel is one of the more simple options in the city, but comfortable, with far more character than some of the other more corporate offerings. In a central location, with the added bonus of being next door to arguably one of the best options for eating out in Kigali, the hotel is well suited to the more budget-conscious travellers looking for a good-value property for an overnight stop. See our full report on Heaven Boutique Hotel
Activities
Cultural excursion
Mountain biking
Your hotel in Kigali to Kigali Airport with your private guide
On your final day here, your private guide will drive you the short distance to the airport, in time to connect with your onward flights and travel arrangements.
Ends: Kigali International Airport
Experiences you can add to this trip.
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst staying at lodges on this trip. These are usually best arranged in advance so talk to us.
City & Genocide Memorial Tour
Half day
Rwanda's capital city, Kigali, is a fascinating spot. Developments which wouldn't look out of place in a much more modern city are springing up, and the country is proud of the capital's progress, both economically and environmentally. Take the time to appreciate Kigali's intricacies, both modern and historical, with a drive through the city and a visit to the Genocide Memorial and museum.
More about Kigali City Tour
Canoeing in Rwanda
Half day - approx. 3 hours on the water
A half-day adventure in lush countryside, on a gentle river near to Musanze, Rwanda
More about Canoeing
Mount Bisoke Trek
Full day
For something a little different, set out on a one-day hike to the summit of Mt Bisoke in the Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas. Discover the beautiful scenery of the Virunga Mountains, spot birds and wildlife, and enjoy spectacular views from the crater lake.
More about Mount Bisoke Trek
Mount Karisimbi Trek - 2 day trek
Two days - overnight on Mt Karisimbi
Set out on a two-day hike to the summit of Mount Karisimbi, which at over 4,507m is one of the highest in Africa. This is a challenge for the adventurous! With a local guide, you’ll traverse bamboo forests and rugged terrain, then camp on the slopes of this active volcano before enjoying sunrise from the summit.
More about Mount Karisimbi Trek
Trek to Dian Fossey’s Grave
Half day, usually five hours
Dian Fossey is best known for her research and conservation work with the mountain gorillas in Rwanda. She dedicated her life to researching and protecting these ‘gentle giants’ from harm, however she was tragically found murdered at her research camp in 1985. Today visitors can join a local guide to trek through the tropical forest to visit her grave, and learn about the impact of her work.
More about Dian Fossey Trek