3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Arrival in Kigali ➝ Road Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your journey begins with arrival at Kigali International Airport, where a professional representative from Otter African Safaris warmly welcomes you. After a short safari briefing, you depart Kigali for a scenic road transfer to Volcanoes National Park, located in Rwanda’s northern province. The drive takes approximately two and a half hours, winding through Rwanda’s famed rolling hills, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Along the way, you witness a patchwork of terraced farmlands, small villages, and panoramic views that showcase Rwanda’s natural beauty.

As you draw closer to Volcanoes National Park, the towering Virunga Volcanoes dominate the horizon, their mist-shrouded peaks offering a dramatic introduction to the region. Upon arrival, you check into your lodge, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, a comfortable and eco-friendly property offering sweeping views of the surrounding highlands. The lodge’s tranquil atmosphere provides the perfect space to relax and prepare for the following day’s adventure.

In the late afternoon, you may take a leisurely walk around the lodge’s gardens or enjoy a guided stroll in the nearby communities. These small walks provide opportunities to observe local life and interact with villagers who warmly share their traditions. The cool highland air, coupled with breathtaking views of the forested slopes, creates a peaceful ambiance that immediately connects you with Rwanda’s natural charm.

Arrival at the Lodge

Dinner is served at the lodge, often featuring a combination of Rwandan and international cuisine prepared from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Afterward, you may sit by the fireplace, sipping a hot drink while your guide briefs you about gorilla trekking rules and expectations. Tonight, you rest early in anticipation of the unforgettable encounter that awaits.

• Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Half Board

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park & Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Visit

This day marks the highlight of your safari—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek through the forests of Volcanoes National Park in search of mountain gorillas. After an early breakfast at the lodge, you are transferred to the park headquarters in Kinigi, where you meet experienced park rangers and receive a detailed briefing about gorilla trekking guidelines. You are then assigned to a specific gorilla family and trekking group based on your fitness level and preferences.

The trek itself is a profound adventure, often lasting between two to six hours depending on the gorillas’ location. As you ascend through bamboo forests and dense vegetation, the trail is filled with fascinating encounters—colorful birds, golden monkeys darting among the branches, and exotic plants unique to the Virunga ecosystem. Guides and trackers communicate via radio to help locate the gorilla family, ensuring your trek is both safe and rewarding.

At last, you arrive at your gorilla group. For one magical hour, you observe these gentle giants up close as they feed, groom each other, and play. Witnessing a silverback’s strength, a mother’s tenderness, or juveniles tumbling in playful energy leaves an indelible mark on your spirit. Photography is permitted, but guests are reminded to respect the animals’ space and remain quiet to minimize disturbance.

Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Visit

After this unforgettable experience, you return to the lodge for lunch and some rest. In the afternoon, you visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, an institution dedicated to gorilla conservation and research. Here, you learn about Dian Fossey’s groundbreaking work, ongoing conservation efforts, and the challenges faced in protecting gorillas. Exhibits, research stories, and interactive sessions enrich your understanding of conservation science and its vital role in ensuring gorillas’ survival.

The day ends back at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, where dinner is served as you share stories with fellow travelers. The day’s emotions excitement, wonder, and gratitude—linger as you prepare for a peaceful night in the highlands.

• Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Full Board

Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village Experience ➝ Kigali Departure

On your final day, you embrace Rwanda’s cultural heartbeat with a morning visit to the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, located near Volcanoes National Park. After breakfast, you depart the lodge and head to the village, where you are welcomed with traditional dances and songs. The experience is interactive, allowing you to join in the dancing, drumming, or spear-throwing demonstrations, offering a fun and authentic introduction to Rwanda’s heritage.

The village is a community-based tourism initiative run by local people, many of whom were once poachers but have since embraced conservation as a livelihood. Through cultural tourism, they share their skills and traditions while supporting wildlife protection. Visitors can explore traditional homesteads, learn how to prepare local dishes, sample banana beer, or listen to elders recount stories of Rwanda’s history and folklore. These moments not only entertain but also provide deep insight into the connection between communities and conservation.

Kigali Departure

After the cultural tour, you enjoy an early lunch before beginning the scenic drive back to Kigali City. Depending on your flight schedule, you may visit key sites such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local art galleries, or craft markets for souvenirs. By afternoon or evening, your guide ensures timely transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward journey.

As you bid farewell to Rwanda, you reflect on three incredible days that blended nature, conservation, and culture. Though short, this safari delivers experiences that resonate long after departure: standing face-to-face with gorillas, learning about Dian Fossey’s legacy, and celebrating Rwanda’s resilient spirit.

• Accommodation: None
• Meal Plan: Half Board