4 Days Primates Safari in Volcanoes National Park- Double Gorilla trekking and Golden monkey trekking.
4 Days Primates Safari in Volcanoes National Park, Discover one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife destinations on this immersive 4-day primate safari in Rwanda. Centered around Volcanoes National Park, this journey offers an extraordinary opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys within their natural habitat. The park’s dramatic scenery defined by mist-covered volcanoes, dense rainforest, and rolling hills creates the perfect setting for a truly unforgettable adventure.
This safari is thoughtfully designed to combine wildlife encounters, conservation education, and cultural exploration. You will experience two separate gorilla treks, giving you a deeper understanding of their behavior and family structures, while also enjoying a rare chance to observe golden monkeys in the wild. In addition, you will visit a renowned conservation center and engage with local communities to learn about Rwanda’s traditions.
With expert guidance, comfortable accommodation, and seamless travel arrangements, this experience offers both adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and curious travelers alike.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park and Fossey Campus Visit.
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by our professional driver guide, who will introduce you to your safari program and provide useful insights about Rwanda. Shortly after, you will begin your scenic journey to Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern part of the country. The drive takes approximately 2 to 3 hours and offers beautiful views of Rwanda’s countryside, including terraced hills, green valleys, and small rural communities that reflect the country’s charm.
Upon arrival in Musanze, you will check into your lodge and enjoy a well-prepared lunch in a calm and refreshing environment. In the afternoon, you will visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Fund, a modern conservation facility inspired by the work of Dian Fossey. During your visit, you will explore interactive exhibits, watch engaging visual presentations, and learn about the conservation of mountain gorillas.
The center provides valuable insight into gorilla behavior, their feeding habits, social structure, and the conservation challenges they face. After this enriching experience, you will return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 2: First Gorilla Trekking Experience.
You will begin your day early with breakfast at the lodge before departing for the park headquarters in Kinigi. Upon arrival, you shall have coffee served too you then park rangers will conduct a comprehensive briefing by 7:30 am, explaining the guidelines for gorilla trekking, safety precautions, and the importance of respecting wildlife in their natural habitat.
After the briefing, you will be assigned to a specific gorilla family and begin your trek into the forest at around 8:00 AM. The trekking experience can vary in duration depending on the movement of the gorillas, but it typically involves walking through dense vegetation, bamboo forests, and sometimes steep terrain. Along the way, your guide will share interesting facts about the ecosystem and point out other wildlife species.
Once you locate the gorillas, you will spend one hour observing them closely. You will witness their daily activities such as feeding, grooming, playing, and interacting within their group. This encounter offers a rare and powerful connection with one of the world’s most endangered species.
After the trek, you will return to the lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing before dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 3: Second Gorilla Trek & Visit to gorilla guardian village for Cultural Experience
After breakfast, you will once again travel to the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park for another briefing session by 7:30 am. On this day, you will trek a different gorilla family, giving you a new and unique perspective on their behavior and interactions within the group.
The trek will take you through varied landscapes, including bamboo forests and open clearings, offering more opportunities to appreciate the park’s biodiversity. During the trek, you may encounter other wildlife species such as small antelopes, forest pigs, and a variety of birds that inhabit the area.
When you find the gorillas, you will again spend one hour observing them as they go about their daily activities. This second encounter allows you to notice new details and deepen your understanding of their social structure and behavior.
After returning to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation, you will visit the Gorilla guardian Village in the afternoon. Here, you will experience traditional Rwandan culture through music, dance, storytelling, and demonstrations of local crafts. This cultural interaction provides a meaningful connection with the local community.
Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 4: Golden Monkey Trekking & Departure.
On your final day, you will wake up early and enjoy breakfast at the lodge before checking out. You will then proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey trekking. The rangers will explain how to approach and observe these primates while ensuring minimal disturbance to their natural behavior.
You will then enter the forest in search of golden monkeys, which are known for their bright golden-orange fur and energetic movements. The trek is generally less strenuous compared to gorilla trekking but still offers an exciting opportunity to explore the forest environment.
Once you locate the monkeys, you will spend one hour observing them as they move quickly through the bamboo trees, feed, and interact within their troop. Their playful nature makes this experience both entertaining and memorable.
After the trek, you will meet your driver-guide who will take you for lunch and then you shall begin your return journey to Kigali International Airport. You shall be dropped off at the airport for your flight home.
End of Safari
Safari costs
From USD5736 for maximum of 1 person
From USD4692 per person for maximum of 2 people
Safari Inclusions
- 4×4 safari vehicle with fuel
- Gorilla trekking permits
- Golden monkey tracking permits
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- All park fees and activities
- Airport transfers
- Visit to Ellen DeGeneres campus
- Cultural village visit
Safari Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees and airport taxes
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, etc)
- Donations like Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Fund
- Souvenirs
- Any other item not mentioned in the inclusions