Rwanda, Uganda · Primate Tours

4-Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari in Rwanda and Uganda

4 Days Round trip from KN 5 Rd Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park and observe them in their bamboo forest habitat
02 Track endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
03 Relax by picturesque Lake Bunyonyi with tranquil waters and stunning views
04 Explore Kigali with optional visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local craft markets

Embark on a 4-day adventure through Rwanda and Uganda, combining wildlife encounters with scenic beauty. Travel from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey trekking in their bamboo forest habitat, then cross into Uganda for unforgettable gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Your journey ends with a relaxing stay at picturesque Lake Bunyonyi, where tranquil waters and stunning views provide the perfect contrast to the thrill of the treks. This safari offers a rewarding blend of primate tracking, cultural touches, and serene landscapes for a short getaway.

After a briefing, set out for golden monkey trekking and spend up to 1 hour observing these rare primates in their bamboo forest habitat.

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 Yes

Cities Kigali, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Lake Bunyonyi

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kigali and Scenic Transfer to Musanze

Meet your Gorilla League Safaris representative at Kigali Airport or your hotel.
There is an option to explore Kigali city, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, or craft centers.
Enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda's countryside to Musanze Town near Volcanoes National Park.

Check in at the lodge and relax for the night.

Day 02

Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Bwindi

Have an early breakfast and transfer to Volcanoes National Park.
After a briefing, set out for golden monkey trekking and spend up to 1 hour observing these rare primates in their bamboo forest habitat.
Drive across the border into Uganda to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge near Bwindi.

Day 03

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi Stay

Have an early breakfast followed by a briefing at park headquarters.
Set out on a guided trek through Bwindi Forest to locate a gorilla family, then spend up to 1 hour observing them in their natural habitat.
Return to the lodge for lunch and rest.
Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, arriving in the evening.
Relax by the lake, enjoy dinner, and stay overnight at a lakeshore lodge.

Day 04

Return to Kigali for Departure

Cross the border into Rwanda and drive to Kigali.
If time permits, enjoy an optional visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial or local craft markets.
Drop off at your Kigali hotel or the airport for your departure flight.

Where this trip takes you

Volcanoes National Park bamboo forest, golden monkeys, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorillas, Lake Bunyonyi

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from KN 5 Rd 4 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Transportation in a 4WD with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide
Accommodation with meals as mentioned in the itinerary
Airport pick-up and drop-off
Entry fees at all parks
One gorilla permit per person
One golden monkey permit per person

What's Not Included

Tips and drinks
Alcoholic drinks
Visas and travel insurance
All international and local flights
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

What to bring

One gorilla trekking permit per person included in the package
One golden monkey permit per person included in the package
A valid passport with at least six months' validity
A Uganda and Rwanda tourist visa, or the East Africa Tourist Visa if crossing borders
A yellow fever vaccination certificate
Travel insurance
Long-sleeved shirts and lightweight trousers for protection from nettles and insects during gorilla trekking
A waterproof rain jacket or poncho
Sturdy hiking boots that are comfortable and broken-in
Gaiters or long socks to tuck trousers in
Gardening gloves for gripping branches and vines
Similar trekking gear for golden monkey trekking, including light layers and waterproofs
Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
Neutral, earthy-colored clothing
Light casual wear for Lake Bunyonyi boat rides and your lodge stay
A swimsuit, optional for safe designated swimming spots
A light sweater for cool evenings
A small daypack for treks
A refillable water bottle or hydration pack
A walking stick, often provided by the park
Binoculars for monkeys and birdwatching at Lake Bunyonyi
A camera or smartphone with no flash for gorillas and monkeys
A power bank and chargers
Sunglasses, a sunhat, and sunscreen
A headlamp or small torch
A face mask required near gorillas and monkeys
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Insect repellent with DEET
Personal medications and a basic first aid kit
Malaria prophylaxis; consult your doctor
High-energy snacks such as nuts or granola bars for treks
Small USD notes or local currency for tips and personal expenses
Tipping guidelines: rangers and trackers USD 10-20 per trek, safari guide or driver USD 10-20 per day, lodge staff USD 5-10 per day

Know before you go

You will be crossing between Uganda and Rwanda, so a visa is required.
The best option is the East Africa Tourist Visa at USD 100, which allows multiple entry between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya.
Alternatively, single-entry tourist visas are USD 50 each per country.
Apply online at least 2 to 3 weeks before travel.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months.
The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is 15 years.
Gorilla trekking can take 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla location.
Time with gorillas is limited to a maximum of 1 hour once found.
Groups are limited to 8 visitors per gorilla family.
Keep a 7 meter distance and avoid direct contact.
No flash photography or loud noises are allowed near gorillas.
The minimum age for golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, is 15 years.
Golden monkey treks are usually shorter and easier than gorilla treks.
Visitors spend 1 hour with golden monkeys once located.
Golden monkeys live in bamboo forests and are lively and fast-moving.
Lake Bunyonyi, known as the Switzerland of Africa, is ideal for relaxation after trekking.
Activities at Lake Bunyonyi may include boat rides, birdwatching, cultural visits, or simply enjoying the lakeside.
The lake is bilharzia-free and safe for swimming in designated areas.
If you are unwell with flu, a cough, or a cold, you may not be allowed to trek primates in order to protect them.
Rangers and guides ensure your safety during treks and walks.
Always remain with your group.
Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended; consult your doctor before travel.
Gorilla and golden monkey permits are included in your package and will be presented at park entrances.
Domestic transfers may involve scenic drives on hilly, winding roads, so carry motion sickness tablets if needed.
Border crossing between Uganda and Rwanda requires showing your passport and visa; your guide will assist.
Permit fees directly support conservation of endangered species and benefit local communities.
By joining this safari, you are contributing to the survival of mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
Cultural encounters such as with Batwa communities help sustain local traditions and livelihoods.