Gorillas & Gold: The Wild Treasures Of Rwanda
Venture deep into Rwanda’s mist-covered mountains for an unforgettable primate safari.
This 3-day adventure blends thrilling wildlife encounters, cultural discovery, and conservation insight. Begin your journey in Kigali before heading north through Rwanda’s rolling hills to Volcanoes National Park, the heartland of the endangered mountain gorilla.
Spend a morning trekking through dense rainforest alongside expert guides to meet a gorilla family ,a rare and emotional wildlife encounter. Visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, where modern science and community initiatives come together to protect Rwanda’s primates.
On your final day, explore the park’s bamboo forests as you track the spirited golden monkeys, native only to this region. Along the way, connect with local people, enjoy scenic drives, and soak in the peaceful rhythm of Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Short, powerful, and deeply moving, this safari captures the soul of Rwanda.
Day 1: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park – Scenic Transfer & Cultural Experience
Arrive in Kigali and meet your local guide for a briefing before embarking on a scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills to Volcanoes National Park. Stop at viewpoints and local markets along the way to experience daily life in the countryside. Check into your lodge in Musanze and enjoy a relaxed evening surrounded by volcanic landscapes. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking & Visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a short briefing before beginning your guided gorilla trek through the misty rainforest. Track a family of mountain gorillas and spend an unforgettable hour observing their behavior up close. In the afternoon, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn about Rwanda’s groundbreaking conservation efforts. Return to Kigali.
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking & Return to Kigali Begin your morning with an exciting trek to see the playful golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. Watch them leap through the bamboo canopy as your guide shares insights about their ecology and habitat. After the trek, enjoy a scenic drive back to Kigali with opportunities to stop for photos or local crafts along the way. Drop-off at your hotel or the airport, marking the end of your memorable Rwandan safari adventure.
A Rwanda visa is not included but available on arrival at Kigali Airport or online.
Treks take 2–6 hours with one hour spent with gorillas or golden monkeys. Anyone with moderate fitness can join Porters available at extra cost.
Wear hiking boots, long pants, and a light rain jacket. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, and binoculars. Best seasons: June–Sept & Dec–Feb.