Overview
Rwanda’s greatest wildlife experience
This 4-day Rwanda gorilla safari takes you into the misty Volcanoes National Park to track a family of endangered mountain gorillas on foot, then up to the moving Dian Fossey research site where she studied them for two decades. Based around Kinigi and finishing in Kigali, it combines Rwanda’s finest wildlife encounter with rolling volcanic scenery and culture.
Day by Day
Your 4-day Rwanda gorilla safari itinerary
Arrival in Rwanda & transfer to Volcanoes National Park
On arrival you are met and transferred to Kinigi, gateway to Volcanoes National Park. The journey winds through Rwanda’s beautiful rolling, majestic hills. Dinner and overnight at Gorillas Nest Lodge or Kinigi Guest House.
Mountain gorilla tracking
After an early breakfast, drive to the park headquarters with packed lunch and water for a briefing by a senior park warden on the ‘dos and don’ts’ around the gorillas. Gorilla trekking through the steep, slippery Virunga slopes is strenuous and takes 2–8 hours depending on the gorillas’ movements, with a full hour spent in the presence of a gorilla family. If time allows on return, the Iby’iwacu cultural visit is well worth it. Dinner and overnight at Gorillas Nest Lodge or Kinigi Guest House.
Hike to Dian Fossey’s graves
An early breakfast is followed by a hike to the Dian Fossey graveyard at the former Karisoke Research Center, where Dian spent about 20 years studying the mountain gorillas. The trek is spectacular, passing through thick bamboo forest and afro-montane habitat criss-crossed with the tracks of forest buffalo and elephant, nestled between the volcanic peaks of Karisimbi and Bisoke. Overnight at Kinigi Guest House or Gorillas Nest Lodge.
Departure via Kigali
After breakfast, transfer to Kigali. Depending on your flight, enjoy a city tour taking in genocide memorial sites such as Gisozi, Nyamata and Ntarama, lunch in Kigali, and a transfer to the airport where the tour ends.
What to expect
What’s included & excluded
Included
- Airport / hotel transfers as per the itinerary
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with driver-guide
- Full-board accommodation on the itinerary
- Park entry & activity fees listed
- Bottled drinking water
Not included
- International flights & visas
- Travel & medical insurance
- Tips for guides, rangers & porters
- Personal items, drinks & snacks
- Anything not listed under “Included”
Why book with us
Why travellers choose Nairobi Tour Promoters
Gorilla specialists
A Nairobi-based team arranging Uganda & Rwanda gorilla treks and permits for years.
Permits & logistics sorted
We secure your gorilla permits and handle transfers, lodges and border formalities.
Clear, fair pricing
Permits, transport, accommodation and guiding included — no hidden costs.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is a gorilla trekking permit included?
Yes, this tour includes your Rwanda gorilla trekking permit, transfers, a 4x4 with driver-guide and full-board accommodation. A permit is required by every visitor and numbers are strictly limited, so early booking is essential.
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
The trek through the Virunga slopes is strenuous and can take 2 to 8 hours depending on where the gorilla family is, so a reasonable level of fitness helps. You spend a full hour with the gorillas once they are found.
When is the best time for Rwanda gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking runs year-round; the drier months of June to September and December to February make the forest trails easier, but sightings are excellent in any season.