Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure across two incredible countries – Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills, and Uganda, the Pearl of Africa – for an unforgettable mountain gorilla encounter. This journey offers a perfect blend of thrilling wildlife experiences, physical challenges, and cultural immersion. As you track the majestic mountain gorillas through lush landscapes, you’ll also have the opportunity to engage with the vibrant cultural heritage of both nations. Prepare to be captivated by the local traditions and customs, making this an enriching and transformative adventure.

Highlights

  • Genocide Memorial
  • Scenic road trip to Bwindi
  • Tropical rain forest
  • Scenic Road Trip
  • Gorillas in Bwindi and Volcanoes Park
  • Local communities

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali city tour and transfer to Volcanoes national park

Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Kigali, where you’ll start the day with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Here, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s poignant history and its remarkable transformation into one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies. After this moving experience, you’ll set off on a scenic 4-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park, nestled in the stunning Virunga Mountains. As you travel, enjoy breathtaking views of the towering volcanic peaks. Upon arrival at your lodge, unwind with a delicious dinner and prepare for an exhilarating day of gorilla tracking ahead.

Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Meal Plan: Full board

Day 2: Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes and transfer to Bwindi

After an early breakfast, we head to the visitor center for an informative briefing by park rangers, where you’ll learn the essential guidelines for your thrilling gorilla tracking adventure. Once allocated to a gorilla family, you’ll be accompanied by experienced trackers as you journey through the tranquil tropical rainforest. When the gorillas are located, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat, learning about their behavior, social structures, and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect these incredible creatures.

Take a moment to enjoy a packed lunch amidst the lush forest, savoring the rare opportunity to dine in the presence of the gorillas’ serene surroundings. In the afternoon, we’ll transfer to the border between Rwanda and Uganda, continuing your journey to Rushaga in Southern Bwindi for your second gorilla adventure. Reflect on your morning’s experience while enjoying a delicious dinner at your lodge, sharing stories and memories with fellow travelers and guides. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you’ll spend the night at the edge of the forest, ready for your second gorilla trek the following day.

Accommodation: Bweza Safari Lodge

Meal Plan: Full board

Day 3: Second Gorilla Trekking Experience (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest)

After an early breakfast at 7:00 am, we’ll take a short drive to the UWA briefing center, where you’ll receive important guidelines on the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking. Once assigned to a gorilla family, you’ll join a small group of up to eight people and begin your adventure, led by experienced armed ranger guides through the forest in search of the gorillas. Upon locating the gorillas, you’ll be given a full hour to observe them as they go about their daily activities, maintaining a respectful distance of 7 to 10 meters. After this incredible experience, you’ll return to your lodge to unwind and relax, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable encounter.

Accommodation: Bweza Safari Lodge

Meal Plan: Full board

Day 4: 5th September 2025 Transfer from Bwindi back to Kigali

After a leisurely morning, you’ll begin your journey from Bwindi to Kigali, with a scenic drive that takes approximately 4 hours. The departure time will be tailored to your flight schedule, ensuring a smooth transfer to Kigali for your onward flight to Kenya. Enjoy the scenic views along the way as you reflect on your unforgettable gorilla tracking adventure before continuing to your next destination.

Accommodation: None

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Included

  • 4×4 Customized Safari Vehicle
  • All transfers mentioned in the itinerary
  • 2 gorilla permits per person (800$ + 1500$)
  • Accommodation as per the itinerary
  • Drinking water in the vehicle
  • Activities mentioned in the itinerary

Excluded

  • Porter fees
  • Optional activities
  • Tips or any additional costs of personal nature
  • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary