Tracking Rwanda’s Gentle Giants
A rare encounter with the natural world
Rwanda’s green hills and misty volcanoes are home to one of the world’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences: meeting mountain gorillas in the forest. This trip takes you further into East Africa’s wild beauty, with quiet lodges, stunning landscapes, and meaningful cultural moments woven into every day.
Use the sample itinerary below to inspire your own customized trip.
Sample Itinerary
DAY 1
Arusha to Kigali
Take a flight from Arusha to Kigali, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a quiet dinner and explore the grounds of the lodge this evening.
DAY 2
Rwanda
Kigali City Tour and Genocide Memorial Visit
Your day begins in Kigali, where a guided city tour and a visit to the Genocide Memorial offer a thoughtful glimpse into Rwanda’s story before you pause for lunch in the heart of the city.
Explore the Virunga Volcanoes
From there, rolling hills and sunlit farmland lead you toward the misty Virunga Volcanoes. By afternoon, you’re settling into the serene Volcanoes Virunga Lodge, situated between two lakes and surrounded by the quiet beauty of the mountains.
DAy 3
Rwanda
Gorilla Trek
Before setting out for your first gorilla encounter, your guide will brief you on gorilla etiquette to ensure a safe and respectful experience. Then you’ll trek through lush jungle trails, and the hour spent in the presence of these incredible animals makes every step of the hike worthwhile.
Visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
Afterward, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to conserving mountain gorillas and supporting the people who share their forest home. Enjoy a self-guided tour and learn more about the ongoing efforts to protect these extraordinary animals.
DAy 4
Rwanda
Gorilla Trek
Today’s trek takes you through the vibrant rainforest, alive with birds and golden monkeys, as you search for gorillas, elephants, and buffalo. The hike may be short or take you deeper into the mountains, but the moment you encounter these incredible animals in their natural home is unforgettable. Afterward, return to the lodge to relax, enjoy dinner, and rest for the night.
Fireside Chat with Gorilla Doctors
Join the Gorilla Doctors for an educational briefing on gorilla tracking and conservation. During the lecture, you will gain an understanding of the behavior and conservation of gorillas. Gorilla Doctors is a dedicated organization that strives to conserve wild mountain and eastern lowland gorillas through life-saving veterinary medicine and the One Health approach.
DAy 5
Depart from Kigali
Your guide will drive you back to the city of Kigali at the end of your Rwandan adventure. Enjoy a day room in Kigali, resting up and readying yourself for your departure.
Frequently asked questions
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How long are the gorilla treks in Rwanda?
Gorilla treks in Rwanda can last anywhere from a couple of hours to most of the day. Before your trek begins, you can indicate your preferred level of difficulty, and park staff will do their best to assign you to a group that matches your hiking ability. Length varies depending on where the gorilla family is located that day.
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How much time do I get to spend with the gorillas?
Once your group reaches the gorilla family, you are allowed a full hour to observe them in their natural habitat. This time is strictly regulated to protect the gorillas’ well-being.
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What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Travelers must be at least 15 years old to participate in gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
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How difficult are gorilla treks in Rwanda?
Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense jungle, navigating uneven or slippery terrain and gaining elevation as the gorillas move through the forest. Most travelers who can comfortably hike for a few hours at home will find the experience manageable. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.
What to expect on a gorilla trek?
Curious about the trek, the gorillas, and the experience itself? Dive into our blog for more details and to see why this once-in-a-lifetime adventure is so captivating.