Rwanda · Primate Tours

4-Day Rwanda Primate Safari with Gorilla Trekking and Twin Lakes

4 Days Round trip from Rwanda Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Enjoy two distinct treks to see both the majestic mountain gorillas and the playful golden monkeys in their natural habitat
02 Stay at the elegant Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel after your days of trekking
03 Visit the picturesque twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo with the Virunga volcanoes as a backdrop
04 Gain insight into Rwanda's history at the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre
05 Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of experienced guides throughout the journey

This 4-day safari offers an intimate exploration of Rwanda's northwestern landscapes, centered on its most famous residents: the mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Beginning in Kigali, the journey leads to the stunning Virunga Mountains and Volcanoes National Park for two distinct primate treks, alongside scenic views of the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. You will also have the opportunity to reflect on Rwanda's poignant history at the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre. Short yet comprehensive, this tour creates a deep connection with both nature and culture.

You will spend an awe-inspiring hour observing these magnificent primates in their natural environment.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Ruhengeri, Kigali, Volcanoes National Park

Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kigali and Primate Adventures in Ruhengeri

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Ruhengeri

Your Rwandan journey begins with a warm welcome from your Golden Rwanda Safaris guide at Kigali International Airport. After a brief introduction, you will embark on a scenic two-hour drive to the town of Ruhengeri, situated near Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival, you will check into the luxurious Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity for a brief city tour of Kigali before settling in for the evening and preparing for the unforgettable days ahead.

Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Meals: Full Board

Day 2: The Thrill of Gorilla Trekking

An early morning start takes you to the park headquarters in Volcanoes National Park for a briefing before your life-changing gorilla trek begins. The hike can be physically demanding, but your guide will lead you through the dense forest to a gorilla family. You will spend an awe-inspiring hour observing these magnificent primates in their natural environment. After this incredible encounter, you will return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest, dinner, and an overnight stay, filled with memories of the day.

Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Meals: Full Board

Day 3: The Playful Golden Monkeys

After an early breakfast, you will once again head to the park headquarters for a briefing. Today's adventure is a trek to see the charming golden monkeys. The golden monkeys are a unique and playful species, and the trek offers a different experience from the gorilla trek. You'll spend an hour with them, watching them leap and play in the bamboo forest. After your trek, you will have lunch at the hotel, with the rest of the afternoon free to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Meals: Full Board

Day 4: Twin Lakes and Kigali's History

On your final day, before heading back to Kigali, you will visit the beautiful twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Surrounded by majestic hills and the backdrop of the Virunga volcanoes, these lakes are a stunning sight. You'll have time to enjoy the scenery before the drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre and take a tour of the city before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure.

Where this trip takes you

Burera and Ruhondo, Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park

The route

Where you'll travel

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

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park Fees: For Volcanoes National Park.
Permits: One gorilla trekking permit and one golden monkey trekking permit per person.
Activities: All trekking and activities as specified in the itinerary.
Accommodation: Three nights' accommodation at the specified hotel.
Guide: A professional, English-speaking driver/guide.
Transportation: All ground transportation in a comfortable safari vehicle.
Taxes: All taxes and VAT.
Transfers: Round-trip airport transfers.
Meals: As specified in the day-by-day section.
Drinks: As specified in the day-by-day section.

What's Not Included

International Flights: Flights to and from Kigali.
Additional Accommodation: Any accommodation before or at the end of the tour.
Tips: Gratuities for the guide and other staff.
Personal Items: Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.
Government Increases: Any government-imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees.

What to bring

Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral colors are essential for protection against insects and thorny plants. A waterproof jacket is a must, as the weather is unpredictable.
Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are crucial for the steep and muddy trails.
Gear: A small backpack to carry water, a camera (without flash), binoculars, and snacks. A pair of gloves can be useful for gripping branches.
Health and Safety: Hand sanitizer and strong insect repellent. A face mask is required when with the gorillas to protect them from human illnesses.
Other: A reusable water bottle and a sun hat for protection.

Know before you go

Permits: The gorilla and golden monkey trekking permits are pre-booked and included in the tour price. These are highly sought-after, so booking well in advance is essential.
Physical Fitness: The treks can be challenging and require a moderate to good level of fitness. The guides will go at a pace suitable for the group, but be prepared for steep and muddy terrain.
Virunga National Park: The itinerary mentions Virunga National Park, which is in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The trekking location is actually in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Please note that the tour will not take you to DRC.
City Tour: The Kigali city tour and visit to the Genocide Memorial are subject to your arrival and departure times.
Tips: While the itinerary states "no tip expected," tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for excellent service from guides, drivers, and lodge staff.

Logistics