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3 Day Rwanda Gorilla safari tour Overview
Join us on a captivating 3 Day Rwanda Gorilla safari tour that promises to unlock the heart of this enchanting country. Over the next three days, you’ll traverse lush forests, encounter majestic gorillas and golden monkeys, delve into Rwanda’s rich history, and explore vibrant markets. This adventure is a symphony of wildlife, culture, and natural beauty, leaving you with a profound connection to Rwanda’s diverse tapestry. Get ready to create unforgettable memories on a journey that will resonate with you long after you’ve returned home.
Safari Summary
- Day 1: Gorilla Safari Adventure Begins
- Day 2: Second Gorilla Encounter & Scenic Views
- Day 3: Golden Monkeys and Kigali Exploration
3 Day Rwanda Gorilla safari tour Details
Day 1: Gorilla Safari Adventure Begins
Your 3 Day Rwanda Gorilla safari tour kicks off with a pickup from your Kigali hotel. Your knowledgeable guide will be your companion throughout, ready to share insights into Rwanda’s culture and history. As you leave Kigali, a 2.5-hour scenic drive unveils Rwanda’s beauty, passing villages and picturesque landscapes. Your journey sets the stage for the adventure ahead. Arriving at Volcanoes National Park, you’ll register and receive a comprehensive briefing. Here, you’ll learn about safety, your specific gorilla family, and conservation efforts, preparing you for a responsible and respectful gorilla encounter.
The highlight of your tour starts with a trek guided by a park ranger and a small group. The trek’s duration varies from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location, making each step a thrilling experience. Your trek culminates in a mesmerizing 1-hour encounter with a gorilla family in their natural habitat. This unique moment allows you to observe their daily lives and familial bonds, creating a deep connection with these incredible creatures. After this awe-inspiring experience, you’ll trek back to the park headquarters, reflecting on the remarkable sights and sounds of the forest. Enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a nearby lodge, sharing stories with fellow trekkers in a serene setting.
To deepen your connection with Rwanda’s rich culture and traditions, your itinerary includes a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. Here, you’ll engage with the indigenous Batwa, Tutsi, and Hutu, gaining profound insights into their customs, dances, and way of life. As the day draws down, you’ll check in at a comfortable lodge, nestled in the Virunga Mountains, for dinner and an overnight stay. This sets the stage for another day of unforgettable gorilla encounters.
Day 2: Second Gorilla Encounter & Scenic Views
Your day starts with a hearty breakfast at your lodge, preparing you for another thrilling adventure. After breakfast, a short drive takes you to the park headquarters. Today’s highlight: a second gorilla trek with a different family, offering fresh insights into these remarkable creatures. Led by an experienced ranger, you embark on the second gorilla trek. Trekking time varies (1-4 hours), depending on the family’s location. Each step brings you closer to another mesmerizing encounter. Spend an hour with a different gorilla family, observing their unique behaviors and family dynamics, deepening your connection with these incredible creatures.After the trek, return to the park headquarters, reflecting on your two distinct gorilla experiences. Enjoy a satisfying lunch at a nearby lodge, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
In the afternoon, your adventure takes a scenic turn as you visit the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. These twin lakes offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a serene setting for reflection and photography. The picturesque landscapes of the lakes and their vibrant communities offer a glimpse into the tranquility of rural Rwanda. As the day concludes, return to your lodge for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the natural beauty of Rwanda.
Day 3: Golden Monkeys and Kigali Exploration
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the lodge, fueling up for the day’s adventures. After breakfast, a drive takes you to the park headquarters for an exciting golden monkey trek in Volcanoes National Park. These charming creatures promise a captivating hour in their natural habitat. The golden monkey trek begins with excitement as you set off with your experienced ranger. These monkeys are known for their vibrant fur and lively behavior, making this encounter truly special. Within the lush forest, you’ll have a captivating 1-hour encounter with these golden treasures, watching them leap from tree to tree and interact with one another, providing a memorable wildlife experience.
After your golden monkey encounter, return to the park headquarters, cherishing the memories you’ve made. Enjoy a satisfying lunch at a nearby lodge, sharing stories with fellow travelers. Depart for Kigali, your journey offers diverse landscapes. Upon arriving in Kigali, you’ll delve into Rwanda’s history with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center. This poignant experience offers insight into the tragic events of 1994 and the nation’s journey toward healing and reconciliation. Continuing your city tour, you’ll explore the bustling Kimironko Market. Here, you can indulge in some shopping, selecting unique Rwandan crafts and souvenirs to commemorate your journey.
Your unforgettable 3-day Rwanda Gorilla Safari concludes as you’re dropped off at your Kigali hotel, carrying cherished memories and a deeper connection to Rwanda’s culture and wildlife.
Important Notes:
– Rwanda Gorilla trekking permits cost USD 1500 and a Rwanda Golden Monkey trekking permit is USD 100 per person per trek. You will need to obtain the permits in advance, which can be purchased through Laba Africa. However, the Rwanda Development Board gives a 30% ($1050) discount on gorilla permits if you are to visit other parks in Rwanda during November and May. Rwanda does not offer discounts on Golden Monkey trekking permits.
– The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry seasons of December to February and June to September, offering comfortable weather and better accessibility to the gorillas. However, during this season there are high visitor numbers hence you will experience a hike in the prices of amenities and services.
– It’s essential to be physically fit and have suitable trekking gear for the expedition. Pack essentials like water, snacks, hiking shoes, and a rain jacket. A small fee can be paid to porters to help you carry luggage during the trek hence reducing the burden.
