3 Days Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking Safari via Kigali

This 3 Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari via Kigali combines Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park with Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The itinerary offers two of East Africa’s most sought-after primate experiences in a short yet rewarding adventure.

Track endangered Mountain Gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi, home to more than half of the world’s remaining population. Complete the journey with an easy and scenic Golden Monkey trek in Volcanoes National Park, set among the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes. Cultural encounters, breathtaking scenery, and seamless cross-border transfers make this safari ideal for travelers with limited time.

Detailed: 3 Days Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking Safari via Kigali

Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Drive time: Approximately 5–6 hours (including border crossing)

Your safari begins with pick-up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport. Drive through Rwanda’s scenic countryside of rolling hills, rural villages, and terraced landscapes before reaching the Uganda–Rwanda border.

After border formalities, continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Arrive in the afternoon and check in at your lodge. After lunch, visit the Batwa community for a guided cultural experience that highlights traditional forest life, storytelling, music, and dance.

Dinner and overnight stay in Bwindi

Accommodation Options

• Budget: Broadbill Forest Camp /Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge
• Mid-Range: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge / Gorilla Mist Camp / Bakiga Lodge
• Luxury: Four Gorillas Lodge/Ruzogo Lodge

Day 2: Bwindi Gorilla Trekking & Transfer to Musanze

Drive time: Approximately 4–5 hours after trekking

After an early breakfast, walk to the park headquarters for a detailed briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. Learn about gorilla trekking guidelines and conservation efforts before entering the forest.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi can take between 2 and 8 hours, depending on the movement of the gorilla family. Once found, spend a memorable hour observing the gorillas as they feed, interact, and care for their young. A packed lunch is recommended due to the unpredictable trekking duration.

After the trek, begin your cross-border transfer back to Rwanda and continue to Musanze, located at the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Dinner and overnight stay in Musanze

Accommodation Options

• Budget: Migano Hotel & Café / Amikus Hotel
• Mid-Range: Classic Lodge / Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
• Luxury: Four Volcanoes Boutique Hotel/Ingagi Parkview Lodge

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park & Transfer to Kigali

Drive time: Musanze to Kigali – approximately 2.5 hours

Enjoy an early breakfast before transferring to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi by 7:00 am. After a short briefing, proceed to the trailhead for your Golden Monkey trek.

Golden Monkey tracking takes place in bamboo forests along the park’s lower slopes. The trek is relatively easy and suitable for most fitness levels. Spend one hour observing these playful and colorful primates as they leap between bamboo stalks and feed on young shoots.

After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch. Later, enjoy a scenic viewpoint overlooking twin lakes and the Virunga Volcano chain, where Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo meet near Mount Sabyinyo.

Transfer to Kigali Airport in time for your onward flight.

Safari Inclusions:

• Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 3
• All ground transportation in a 4WD safari vehicle
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide
• Gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi
• Golden Monkey trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park
• Park entrance fees
• Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
• Packed lunch on trekking day
• Batwa cultural experience
• Guided nature walks and hiking activities

Safari Exclusions

• Alcoholic drinks and soft beverages
• Laundry services
• Tips and personal expenses
• International flights and visas

Important Notes

• This itinerary can be customized to match your travel dates and accommodation preferences.
• Gorilla and Golden Monkey permits are limited and should be booked in advance.
• Prices may change depending on accommodation availability and season.