4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking Safari

Embark on an unforgettable 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and Golden Monkey Tracking Safari brought to you by Terenga Safaris. This expertly crafted adventure takes you deep into the lush highlands of northwestern Rwanda, where the iconic Volcanoes National Park stands as a sanctuary for the critically endangered mountain gorillas and the enchanting golden monkeys. Beginning in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital, this safari combines rich cultural history, emotional depth, and thrilling wildlife encounters. It offers travelers an exceptional opportunity to explore one of Africa’s premier primate destinations in just four days.

This immersive 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking Safari journey begins with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport, followed by an insightful city tour that traces Rwanda’s difficult but inspiring past. A short scenic drive leads you to Musanze, nestled on the edge of Volcanoes National Park. Over the following days, you will set out on two exhilarating treks: first, a gorilla trekking expedition through dense montane forest; then, a golden monkey tracking experience that highlights the biodiversity of the region. Throughout the safari, travelers are accommodated in carefully selected lodges, with meal plans tailored to provide comfort and nourishment amid the adventure.

Whether you are a passionate wildlife enthusiast, a bucket list traveler, or a conservation supporter, this 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking Safari safari offers one of the best ways to engage with Rwanda’s iconic natural heritage in a short but deeply rewarding time frame. Prepare for awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and heart-touching cultural exchanges on this 4-day primate adventure.

Detailed 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Airport Transfer and Hotel Check-in

Arrival in Kigali – Airport Transfer and Hotel Check-in

Your 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking Safari journey begins the moment you land at Kigali International Airport, where you will be warmly received by your Terenga Safaris representative. Dressed in branded attire for easy identification, your driver-guide will extend a courteous welcome and assist you with your luggage before transferring you to your preferred accommodation within the city.

Depending on your arrival time, there may be an option to begin a light city orientation tour, covering key highlights and allowing you to familiarize yourself with Rwanda’s capital. Kigali is known for its cleanliness, safety, and gentle pace, making it one of Africa’s most progressive urban centers. It is a city that blends traditional Rwandan culture with modern infrastructure, and its picturesque setting among rolling hills provides a perfect start to your safari.

After check-in at your selected hotel, you will be briefed about the full itinerary for the upcoming days. Take the opportunity to relax and enjoy your dinner in the tranquil surroundings of Kigali. This evening is for rest and preparation as you anticipate the thrilling experiences that lie ahead.

Accommodation: Hotel Des Mille Collines
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Kigali Genocide Memorial Visit and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Kigali Genocide Memorial Visit and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After a sumptuous breakfast at your hotel, your guide will meet you for a historically moving city tour. Your first stop will be the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, a site of remembrance that chronicles the events of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. This powerful and sobering experience offers insight into Rwanda’s painful past and its path toward reconciliation. Over 250,000 victims are buried here in mass graves, and the museum includes video documentaries, personal accounts, and historical artifacts that commemorate the lives lost.

From here, the journey continues to Musanze District, the gateway town to Volcanoes National Park. The scenic drive takes approximately 2.5 hours, passing through terraced hills, bustling markets, and picturesque countryside. This region is part of the Virunga massif, a chain of volcanoes that span across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. As you ascend into the higher elevations, the cooler air and mist-covered peaks signal your arrival in gorilla country.

Upon arrival in Musanze, you will check into your selected lodge and enjoy a relaxed afternoon. You can opt to visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Museum (optional), take a nature walk around the local community, or simply enjoy the lush surroundings and volcanic views.

Accommodation: Le Bamboo Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park

Today is the pinnacle of your 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking Safari —the day you trek deep into the forest to meet Rwanda’s mountain gorillas. After an early morning wake-up call, you’ll enjoy a quick breakfast and drive to the Kinigi Park Headquarters for your pre-trek briefing. Here, experienced Rwanda Development Board (RDB) rangers will guide you on the rules and expectations for gorilla trekking.

You will be assigned a specific gorilla family to track and placed in a group of no more than 8 people. Trekking times vary depending on the gorillas’ location, ranging from 2 to 6 hours. The trek itself can be moderately strenuous, so a fair level of physical fitness is essential. Along the way, you’ll journey through dense bamboo and hagenia-hypericum forests, encountering other wildlife such as bushbucks, forest elephants, and a variety of bird species.

Once the gorilla group is located, you will spend one magical hour observing their behavior. Witness the gentle interactions between mothers and infants, the commanding presence of the silverback, and the playful antics of juveniles. Photography is permitted without flash, and visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful distance while enjoying this deeply moving wildlife encounter.

After the trek, return to the lodge for a late lunch and a well-deserved rest. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Reflect on the profound experience you’ve just had as you relax with views of the towering volcanoes in the background.

Accommodation: Le Bamboo Gorilla Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer Back to Kigali

Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer Back to Kigali

On your final 4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Tracking Safari day, begin early with breakfast and head to the park for the golden monkey trekking experience. Unlike the solitary habits of gorillas, golden monkeys are energetic, social, and entertaining to observe. They live in large troops and are often found foraging for bamboo shoots, fruits, and insects.

Just like the gorilla trek, golden monkey trekking starts with a briefing at the park headquarters. The hike is usually easier and shorter, making it a perfect activity to conclude your primate adventure. Once you locate the troop, you will have one hour to watch them swing from trees, groom each other, and curiously observe their human visitors.

After the trekking, return to your lodge for lunch, check out, and begin the drive back to Kigali. Your guide will drop you off either at your hotel in Kigali or at the airport in time for your departure flight.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch