4 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and Kigali Tour
Tour Overview
Overview
This 4-day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and Kigali Tour takes you on a thrilling journey through the heart of Rwanda’s natural and cultural wonders. You’ll embark on a once-in-a-lifetime double gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park, explore the stunning Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera, and discover the underground beauty of Musanze Caves. The tour also includes a guided exploration of Kigali City and a moving visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Museum.
This itinerary offers the perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and scenic beauty. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a first-time traveler to Rwanda, this experience can be customized to meet your personal preferences and travel style.
Tour Highlights
- Departure and Return Place: We can start/end this tour from any hotel in Kigali or Kigali International Airport
- Departure Time: Please be ready by 7:00 AM for a prompt departure at 7:30 AM
- Return Time: Approximately 4:00 PM on the last day
- Dress Code: Casual. Comfortable trekking clothes, a hat, hiking boots, and a light rain jacket are recommended
- Customizations: The tour can be adjusted to suit your specific needs or interests
- Extensions: Additional days in Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, or Lake Kivu can be added on request
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Best Season: June to September and December to February are ideal for gorilla trekking due to dry conditions
- Local Expertise: Led by experienced, Rwanda-based travel experts and guides
- Support: 24/7 assistance before, during, and after your trip
- Private Experience: Enjoy personalized service with your own private guide and 4x4 vehicle throughout the tour
What to Expect on Tour
- Get immersed in the beauty, resilience, and hospitality of Rwanda
- Enjoy scenic drives through Rwanda’s lush highlands and terraced landscapes
- Explore Musanze Caves and the serene Twin Lakes region
- Learn Rwanda’s history through an insightful Kigali city tour and the Genocide Memorial visit
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Kigali & City Tour
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed by your guide. Depending on your arrival time, you'll take a guided Kigali city tour, including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, craft markets, and local neighborhoods. Later, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Musanze near Volcanoes National Park, enjoying scenic views of Rwanda’s rolling hills.
Overnight: Hotel/Lodge in Musanze
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2 First Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park
Early morning breakfast, followed by a short drive to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for briefing. Afterward, begin your first gorilla trekking experience through the dense forest. Spend one magical hour with a gorilla family, observing their behavior in the wild. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. Optional visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village in the afternoon.
Overnight: Hotel/Lodge in Musanze
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 Second Gorilla Trek & Twin Lakes Excursion
After an early breakfast, you’ll embark on your second gorilla trek — possibly visiting a different gorilla family. Return to the lodge for lunch, then in the afternoon, take a scenic tour of the Twin Lakes (Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera), where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and local canoe rides. Optional visit to the Musanze Caves.
Overnight: Hotel/Lodge in Musanze
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4 Transfer Back to Kigali & Departure
After breakfast, begin your drive back to Kigali. You may have time to visit more cultural or historic sites, depending on your flight schedule. Your guide will drop you off at Kigali International Airport or your hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable Rwandan adventure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Pricing Includes
- Two Gorilla Trekking Permits (each valued at $1,500)
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kigali
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- All accommodations (based on selected package: budget/mid-range/luxury)
- All meals as per itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Bottled drinking water throughout the safari
- Kigali City Tour and Genocide Memorial entry fees
- Twin Lakes and Musanze Caves guided excursions
- All park entrance fees and government taxes
Pricing Excludes
- International flights
- Rwanda Tourist Visa
- Personal travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff
- Alcoholic drinks and beverages not mentioned
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, phone calls, laundry, etc.
FAQs
Do I need a visa to enter Rwanda?
Yes. Most travelers require a visa to enter Rwanda. You can apply for a Rwanda Tourist Visa online (e-visa) or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. The East Africa Tourist Visa is also available and allows travel between Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.
Is Rwanda safe for tourists?
When is the best time to visit Rwanda?
The best time is during the dry seasons:
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June to September
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December to February
These periods are ideal for gorilla trekking and other outdoor activities due to minimal rainfall.
How fit do I need to be for gorilla trekking?
Are gorilla permits included in the tour price?
How close can I get to the gorillas?
Are children allowed on gorilla treks?
What languages are spoken in Rwanda?
Can I customize my trip?
What is the currency used in Rwanda?
Is tipping expected in Rwanda?
Other Tour Details
Tour Accommodations
Tour Day | Budget Camping Package | Standard Package |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Haven La Locanda (Budget Guesthouse)Nature Campsite | KaratuFive Volcanoes Boutique Hotel or Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge Simba Lodge |
Day 2 | La Locanda or Fatima Hotel | Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge |
Day 3 | La Locanda or Virunga Hotel | Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge or Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge |
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