Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Journey to the Volcanoes

Your journey begins the moment you land at Kigali International Airport (KGL). After clearing immigration and customs, you will be warmly greeted by your professional, English-speaking driver/guide.

You’ll board a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle for the 2.5 to 3-hour drive to the Musanze/Kinigi area, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. This scenic journey winds through Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Bottled mineral water will be available in the vehicle.

Upon arrival in the Musanze region, you will check into your pre-booked lodge. Your accommodation choice will define the style of your stay. All options below are offered on a Full Board (FB) basis, which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

• Luxury Tier Option (e.g., Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge):

You will be welcomed into a world of exclusive luxury. Expect a private villa or suite, world-class service, and stunning views of the volcanoes. The experience is seamless, with all meals and often all drinks included.

• Mid-Range Tier Option (e.g., Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge):

You will check into a comfortable and well-appointed lodge or hotel. These properties offer excellent service, cozy rooms (often with amenities like fireplaces), and beautiful surroundings, providing a perfect base for your trek.

• Budget-Friendly Tier Option (e.g., Kinigi Guesthouse, La Palme Hotel):

You will settle into a clean, comfortable, and friendly guesthouse or hotel. These options provide all the necessary comforts and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, conveniently located for the next day’s trek.

Depending on your arrival time and preference, you can relax at your lodge or partake in an optional activity like a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village or a local nature walk.

A delicious dinner will be served at your lodge. Afterwards, your guide will provide a comprehensive briefing for the gorilla trek, covering what to wear, safety protocols, and what to expect on the trail.

Day 2: The Gorilla Trek and Departure

After an early breakfast at your lodge, you will be driven to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi, arriving by 7:00 AM for registration and a briefing from the park rangers.

Led by expert guides, you will venture into the misty forests of the Virunga Mountains. The trek can last anywhere from 2 to 8 hours depending on the location of your assigned gorilla family.

The highlight of your trip is spending one incredible hour observing a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat. This is a truly unforgettable and moving experience.

You will trek back to the park headquarters to receive your trekking certificate. From there, you will begin the scenic drive back to Kigali. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or at Kigali International Airport (KGL) for your departure, concluding your safari.

What Is Included:

• Gorilla Trekking Permit: 1 permit per person (a crucial and high-value item).
• Accommodation: 1 night at your chosen lodge near Volcanoes National Park.
• Meal Plan: Full Board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) at the lodge.
• Transportation: All ground transport in a private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal viewing.
• Driver/Guide: The services of a professional, English-speaking driver and guide throughout the safari.
• All Transfers: Airport pick-up and drop-off as per the itinerary.
• Refreshments: Bottled mineral water provided in the vehicle during your journey.
• Park Fees: All government taxes and park entrance fees.

What Is Not Included (Exclusions):

• International Flights: Airfare to and from Kigali International Airport (KGL).
• Visa Fees: Any visa fees required for entry into Rwanda.
• Beverages: Alcoholic drinks, sodas, and other luxury beverages at the lodge (unless staying at an all-inclusive property).
• Optional Activities: Any activities not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary, such as the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village visit or optional nature walks.
• Gratuities: Tips for your driver/guide, lodge staff, and park rangers/trackers.
• Personal Expenses: Costs for souvenirs, laundry service, and other personal items.
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance (highly recommended).