3 Days Rwanda Gorillas and Dian Fossey Hike
per person
This 3-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Dian Fossey Hike is a memorable journey into the heart of Rwanda’s perfect wilderness. It gives a rare and profound opportunity to connect with these rare primates (mountain gorillas), discover the conservation efforts of Dian Fossey, and appreciate the breathtaking beauty of Volcanoes National Park. Whether you are a wildlife passionate, a conservation advocate, or an adventurous traveller, this tour will leave you with lifelong memories and a strong appreciation for Rwanda’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Book this tour today and embark on an extraordinary adventure in the land of gorillas.
Trip Highlights of the 3-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Dian Fossey Hike
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Dian Fossey Hike
- Scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park
- Golden Monkey Trekking (Optional add-on)
- Local Cultural Experience
- Comfortable Lodging
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
On this 3 Days Rwanda Gorillas and Dian Fossey hike, upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative from Nakra Safaris Uganda, who will give you a small briefing on the itinerary. In case you have time on your side, you may take a brief city tour of Kigali, visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial, craft markets, or local restaurants for a genuine Rwandan meal. Then, after the city tour (if applicable), you will start on a beautiful 2-3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park, located in Musanze District in the northern part of Rwanda. The drive offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, scenic villages, and lush landscapes, making it an ideal introduction to Rwanda’s nickname: “The Land of a Thousand Hills”. On your arrival at your lodge, you will check in and relax, enjoying the serene surroundings as you prepare for the gorilla trekking adventure the following day.
Accommodation: (based on your preference)
Luxury:
Mid-range:
Budget Lodge:
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
On this 3-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Dian Fossey Hike, you will have a hearty breakfast in the early morning. Our guide will transfer you to the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters in Kinigi, where you will receive a briefing from park rangers about the gorilla trekking experience. Then you will be allocated a gorilla family group based on fitness levels and group preferences. Guided by experienced guides and rangers, you will go deep into the dense forests of the Virunga Mountains, following trails used by the gorillas. Trekking can take anywhere between 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family assigned to your group. When you encounter the gorillas, you will be allowed to spend one magical hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watch as they interact, play, feed, and exhibit their fascinating behaviours. This close encounter is often described as one of the most profound wildlife experiences in the world. After the gorilla trek, you will be transferred to the park headquarters to receive a trekking certificate before proceeding back to your lodge to rest or engage in optional activities such as a cultural village visit or a nature walk.
Accommodation:
Luxury:
Mid-range:
Budget Lodge:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Dian Fossey Hike & Return to Kigali
This 3-day Rwanda Gorillas and Dian Fossey Hike of your final day, you will start with a hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb and Karisoke Research Centre, situated between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. Dian Fossey dedicated her life to protecting mountain gorillas, and her pioneering work is credited with preventing their extinction. This hike takes about 3-4 hours each way and offers insight into Fossey’s life, work, and conservation legacy. While you trek, you may also come close to golden monkeys, birds, and other wildlife inside the park. On reaching her gravesite, you will have the opportunity to pay respects and reflect on her incredible impact. This site also includes the graves of some gorillas she studied, further emphasising her strong connection to them. After the hike, you will be transferred back to your lodge for lunch before starting on the drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have additional time for shopping or sightseeing before being dropped off at the airport or your place of convenience.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Inclusions
- Gorilla trekking permit ($1,500 per person – subject to change)
- Dian Fossey hike permit
- All ground transportation is in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- English-speaking professional guide
- 2 nights’ accommodation (Luxury, Mid-range, or Budget options available)
- All meals as specified in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
- Bottled drinking water during the trip
- Park entry fees and ranger fees
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Exclusions
- International airfare
- Rwanda visa fees ($50 for most nationalities)
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, etc.)
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic and soft drinks are not included in the meal plan
- Optional activities such as Golden Monkey Trekking