gorilla in rwanda forest
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Rwanda Extension

5 Days
4 Nights
Starting: $8,000
map for rwanda extension from tanzania

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

Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda with a pool at night

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.

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OVERNIGHT

Kigali Serena Hotel

Kigali Serena Hotel is a refined urban retreat where contemporary African style meets warm Rwandan hospitality. Spacious rooms feature modern comforts, while the polished granite atrium, tropical gardens, and spa create a serene place to relax. Enjoy local and international cuisine at the on-site restaurants, making this an ideal spot to unwind before or after your Rwandan adventure.

virunga lodge in rwanda

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.

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virunga lodge bedroom

OVERNIGHT

Virunga Lodge

Virunga Lodge crowns a scenic ridge overlooking the Virunga Volcanoes and lakes Bulera and Ruhondo. Its ten handcrafted bandas feature private terraces, fireplaces, and en-suite bathrooms, while a cozy stone lounge hosts evening meals. After trekking or gorilla encounters, guests can relax at the Ikirunga Spa, enjoy locally inspired cuisine, and unwind in serene Rwandan highlands.

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.

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virunga lodge bedroom

OVERNIGHT

Virunga Lodge

Virunga Lodge crowns a scenic ridge overlooking the Virunga Volcanoes and lakes Bulera and Ruhondo. Its ten handcrafted bandas feature private terraces, fireplaces, and en-suite bathrooms, while a cozy stone lounge hosts evening meals. After trekking or gorilla encounters, guests can relax at the Ikirunga Spa, enjoy locally inspired cuisine, and unwind in serene Rwandan highlands.

young chimp in rwanda forest

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.

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virunga lodge bedroom

OVERNIGHT

Virunga Lodge

Virunga Lodge crowns a scenic ridge overlooking the Virunga Volcanoes and lakes Bulera and Ruhondo. Its ten handcrafted bandas feature private terraces, fireplaces, and en-suite bathrooms, while a cozy stone lounge hosts evening meals. After trekking or gorilla encounters, guests can relax at the Ikirunga Spa, enjoy locally inspired cuisine, and unwind in serene Rwandan highlands.

view of volcanoes and lakes in virunga rwanda

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.

gorilla in rwanda forest

Frequently asked questions

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.

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