This 4 days gorilla trekking tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience gorilla trekking in two different countries, Rwanda and Uganda. The safari starts and ends in Kigali, Rwanda, with your first trek taking place in Volcanoes National Park, the famous base for the late Dian Fossey, a renowned primatologist and researcher.
After trekking in Rwanda, you will cross into Uganda for another memorable gorilla trekking experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and also take part in the Batwa cultural trail. The safari ends with an optional Kigali city tour before your departure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park
Meet your driver guide in Kigali and start your journey to Volcanoes National Park. The drive offers beautiful views of Rwanda’s hilly landscape, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
The park covers about 160 square kilometers and is dominated by five volcanoes: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Sabyinyo, Muhabura, and Gahinga. It is home to mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, olive baboons, bushbucks, elephants, vervet monkeys, and several bird species.
Upon arrival, check in at your lodge, enjoy dinner, and prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure the following day.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Transfer to Uganda
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a gorilla trekking briefing. The park ranger will go over the rules, including maintaining a safe distance, avoiding noise, and not feeding the animals.
Your gorilla trekking adventure will then begin with the guidance of an experienced ranger. Along the way, you may encounter monkeys, birds, butterflies, and other forest creatures. Once you find the gorillas, spend one hour observing them as they feed, play, and care for their young ones. The entire experience can last up to five hours depending on their movements.
After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch, check out, and cross into Uganda through the Cyanika border. Continue to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, arriving in the evening. Check in at your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga and Batwa Forest Experience
Wake up early for breakfast and head to the park headquarters for another gorilla trekking briefing. You will be assigned a gorilla group and ranger guides to lead you through the forest. The trek can take up to five hours, including the one hour you spend in close interaction with the gorillas.
After the trek, return for lunch and in the afternoon, join the Batwa cultural trail. The Batwa guides and rangers will take you through the forest as they share their history and traditions. Learn about how they coexisted with wildlife, their hunting methods, herbal medicine, and the caves they used for shelter. Later, return to your lodge for dinner and rest.
Day 4: Return to Kigali and Optional City Tour
After breakfast, begin your drive back to Kigali, Rwanda. Upon arrival, you can enjoy an optional Kigali city tour. Visit key attractions such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center, local craft markets, art galleries, and cultural centers.
Your driver will drop you off at Kigali International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your 4 days Mgahinga and Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking tour.
