Rwanda · Primate Tours

4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and Golden Monkey Tour with Lake Kivu

4 Days Round trip from Kigali Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Experience gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
02 Enjoy golden monkey tracking in Rwanda's misty bamboo forests
03 Explore Kigali's historical landmarks and cultural attractions
04 Relax by Lake Kivu and enjoy a scenic boat ride

Experience the best of Rwanda on this 4-day safari adventure, combining primate encounters, cultural discovery, and lakeside relaxation. Trek endangered mountain gorillas and playful golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, one of Africa's most remarkable primate sanctuaries, and explore Kigali's historical and cultural landmarks. Visit the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village, enjoy scenic drives through Rwanda's lush countryside, and unwind along the shores of Lake Kivu with a peaceful boat trip before returning to Kigali.

Spend one hour observing gorillas in their natural habitat and capturing memorable moments.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Gisenyi, Kigali, Volcanoes National Park

Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Receive a warm welcome on arrival at Kigali Airport, followed by a short briefing.
Begin your Kigali city tour, including the Genocide Memorial Centre, local markets, and craft shops.
Enjoy lunch at one of Kigali's finest hotels before driving northwest to Volcanoes National Park in Musanze.

Check in at your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 02

Gorilla Trekking and Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village Visit

Have breakfast and proceed to Kinigi Park Headquarters for a pre-trek briefing.
Set out on your gorilla trek with an experienced ranger to locate one of the 13 habituated families.
Spend one hour observing gorillas in their natural habitat and capturing memorable moments.
Return to the lodge for lunch, and later visit the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village for a community experience.

Overnight at your lodge in Volcanoes National Park.

Day 03

Golden Monkey Tracking and Lake Kivu Relaxation

After breakfast, join your guide for golden monkey tracking in the bamboo forest.
Spend an hour observing these playful primates and their unique behaviours.
Return to your lodge for lunch before travelling to Gisenyi for evening relaxation along the shores of Lake Kivu.

Overnight at a lakeside hotel.

Day 04

Lake Kivu Boat Trip and Return to Kigali

Enjoy breakfast followed by a scenic boat ride on Lake Kivu, with panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Have lunch at a local restaurant before driving back to Kigali.
Arrive in time for your onward flight, marking the end of your 4-day Rwanda Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kigali 3 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park fees for non-residents
Gorilla and golden monkey permits (one per person)
All activities unless marked optional
Accommodation as per itinerary
Professional driver and guide
All transportation during the tour
All taxes and VAT
Roundtrip airport transfers
Meals and drinks as specified

What's Not Included

International flights
Additional accommodation before or after the tour
Tips and personal expenses
Travel insurance and visa fees
Government-imposed tax or park fee increases
Meals not specified in the itinerary

What to bring

Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers for insect protection.
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
Light fleece or sweater for cool mornings and evenings.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots.
Thick, moisture-wicking socks.
Gardening or trekking gloves.
Hat or cap for sun protection.
Optional gaiters to keep mud and insects out of boots.

Know before you go

Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
Rwanda visa (available online or on arrival for most nationalities).
Gorilla and golden monkey trekking permits (usually arranged by your operator).
Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
Vaccination certificate - Yellow Fever required for entry.
Copies (digital and printed) of all important documents.
Trekking in Volcanoes National Park involves humid forests, mud, and occasional rain, so pack for comfort and practicality.
Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect from insects and nettles.
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho, as it can rain at any time.
Light fleece or sweater for cool mornings and evenings.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots - essential for trekking.
Thick, moisture-wicking hiking socks.
Garden or trekking gloves to protect hands from thorns.
Hat or cap for sun protection.
Gaiters (optional) to keep mud and insects out of boots.
Insect repellent (DEET-based or natural alternatives).
Sunscreen (SPF 30+).
Lip balm with sunblock.
Hand sanitizer or wet wipes.
Reusable water bottle or hydration pack.
Small backpack or daypack for trekking days.
Personal first aid kit (painkillers, plasters, motion sickness medication, etc.).
Prescription medication (carry enough for the entire trip).
Camera or smartphone (no flash during gorilla encounters).
Binoculars for birding and scenic views.
Extra memory cards and batteries (limited charging options in the forest).
Power bank or portable charger.
Universal travel adapter (Rwanda uses 230V, Type C & J sockets).
Cash in USD (newer bills preferred, from 2013 onward).
Small denominations for tips and local purchases.
Tipping Guide:
Park ranger or guide: $10-$20 per trek.
Porters: $10-$15 per trek.
Driver-guide: $10-$20 per day.
Walking stick (often provided at park headquarters).
Energy snacks or granola bars.
Lightweight binoculars.
Travel pillow or eye mask.
Notebook or travel journal.
Plastic bags - strictly banned in Rwanda (will be confiscated at the airport).
Flash photography - disturbs gorillas.
Loud colours or strong perfumes - can disturb wildlife.