Mystic Mountain Encounter

RWANDA GORILLA TREK ITINERARY

DAY 1:Arrival to Kigali and transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional driver/guide. Your Rwandan journey begins with a complimentary guided tour of Kigali, a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Founded in 1907 by Dr. Richard Kandt, the first colonial resident governor of Rwanda, Kigali is nestled among lush green hills—hence its nickname, "The Land of a Thousand Hills."

During your city tour, you’ll visit several key landmarks, including the vibrant craft market, the powerful Gisozi Genocide Memorial, and the informative Kigali Museum, each offering a unique perspective on Rwanda's past and present.

After the city tour, you’ll embark on a scenic two-hour drive to Ruhengeri (also known as Musanze), Rwanda’s second-largest town, renowned for its breathtaking views of the Virunga volcano range, home to five majestic volcanic peaks.

Upon arrival, you’ll stop at the Red Rocks Intercultural Exchange Centre for a delicious lunch and an immersive cultural experience. Here, you’ll learn the traditional art of brewing banana beer, guided by local artisans. For those interested, you can participate by helping extract banana juice and enjoy a refreshing glass—an optional but memorable experience. You’ll also gain insights into the fermentation process and have the chance to sample the locally brewed beer.

In addition to the brewing demonstration, you may take part in basket weaving, a traditional craft that supports local families and preserves cultural heritage. This hands-on activity not only enriches your visit but also directly benefits the surrounding community.

After a fulfilling and engaging day, you’ll be transferred to your lodge for dinner and a restful overnight stay, preparing you for the adventures ahead.

Driving Distance: Approximately 2 hours Activities: Kigali City Tour, Cultural Experiences at Red Rocks 

Meal Plan: Full Board – Lunch, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast 

Overnight: Five Volcanoes Lodge or Sambora Lodge

Day 2: Gorilla Tracking 

After an early breakfast, you’ll transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi, where you’ll meet your expert ranger guides for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Following a briefing and completion of park formalities, your adventure begins—tracking the elusive and awe-inspiring mountain gorillas.

Accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll trek through the lush, mist-covered forests on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, one of the last refuges of the critically endangered mountain gorilla. Once your group locates a gorilla family, you’ll spend a magical hour observing them in their natural habitat. This encounter offers an incredibly intimate wildlife experience—being just meters away from these gentle giants is both humbling and unforgettable.

With fewer than 1,100 mountain gorillas left in the wild, this rare opportunity offers insight into their social structures and behaviors. The trek can be moderately challenging, lasting up to six hours or more, often at high altitudes. Good physical fitness will enhance your experience, though many visitors in their 60s and 70s have successfully completed the trek. If you prefer a shorter hike, your driver-guide can request a closer group for you.

To ensure a comfortable trek, wear sturdy hiking boots and long trousers, and consider bringing gloves for protection against nettles. Don’t forget snacks, sweets (for yourself), and plenty of water, as the rainforest can become hot and humid during the day.

After this unforgettable encounter, you’ll return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch, followed by a relaxing afternoon. Enjoy a delicious dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.

Driving Distance: Approximately 45 minutes Activities: One Gorilla Trek Meal Plan: Full Board – Lunch, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Overnight: Five Volcanoes Lodge or Sambora Lodge

Day 3: Return to Kigali

After breakfast, bid farewell to your hosts and begin the drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight time, you may enjoy some final sightseeing or indulge in last-minute shopping in one of Africa’s most welcoming and vibrant capital cities.

Later, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Rwandan journey.

Activities: Kigali Transfer & Departure

End of services