6 Day Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda (5 Nights)

HISTORY WILL TELL!

6 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tour, Golden Monkey Trekking and More

DAY 1: ARRIVAL AT THE KIGALI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you'll be warmly greeted by your Amahoro driver/guide, who will assist you with your luggage and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel in Kigali. As you make your way through the vibrant city, take in the sights and sounds that reflect Rwanda's rich culture and history. Once at your hotel, you'll settle in for a relaxing overnight stay, complete with breakfast to energize you for the adventure of your 6 day gorilla tour in Rwanda!

Driving distance:  30 Minutes

Activity: 0

Overnight: Value – Ubumwe Grande Hotel | Midrange – Mille Collins Hotel | Luxury – Governor’s Residence

Meal Plan: Bed & breakfast

DAY 2: NTARAMA MEMORIAL CENTERS AND NYAMATA TOUR + DEPART FOR MUSANZE

After an early breakfast, you'll set out to visit the Ntarama Church, a site of profound tragedy where over 5,000 people lost their lives during the 1994 genocide. Located about 30 kilometers south of Kigali in the Bugasera region, the Ntarama Genocide Memorial stands as a somber reminder of the horrific violence that unfolded there. As you explore, you'll learn about the Unity and Reconciliation Commission and the ongoing efforts to heal the nation.

Nyamata Memorial Site

Following your visit to Ntarama, proceed to the Nyamata Memorial Site, another church where approximately 2,500 individuals were killed, highlighting the brutal treatment of women during the genocide. Here, graphic displays and audio-visual presentations focus on the mass rape and brutalization faced by women, including the use of HIV as a weapon of genocide. After this poignant experience, you will return to Kigali for lunch before embarking on a three-hour drive to Ruhengeri, the second-largest town in Rwanda, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the five volcanic mountains of the Virunga range. Arrive at your hotel in Ruhengeri for dinner and an overnight stay.

Driving distance:  

Activities: Ntarama & Nyamata Memorial Visit

Overnight: Value - Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Midrange – Tiloreza Eco Lodge | Luxury - Bisate Lodge   

Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast

DAY 3: RWANDA GOLDEN MONKEY TRACKING + FAMOUS KARISOKE RESEARCH CENTER TOUR

Get ready for an exhilarating day of golden monkey tracking in the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park! As you step into the lush, dense stands of bamboo, interspersed with open glades, your adventure begins. Guided by experienced rangers, you’ll journey deep into the heart of golden monkey territory, where groups of 'habituated' monkeys await your arrival. Although your viewing time is limited to just one hour, the experience promises to be unforgettable. Picture yourself just meters away from these playful primates as they frolic, feast on bamboo leaves, and leap gracefully from branch to branch. Witness mothers tenderly caring for their young, completely at ease in the presence of visitors—a truly magical encounter with nature!

After this incredible experience, you’ll head to the Karisoke Research Center, now known as the Ellen DeGeneres Campus center. Established in 1967 by Dr. Fossey, this pioneering facility has become the world’s longest-running gorilla research site, dedicated to the conservation and study of these magnificent gorillas. Here, you’ll gain fascinating insights into gorilla behavior and the groundbreaking science conducted over the past five decades. Following your enriching visit, return to your hotel to unwind and reflect on a day filled with adventure, wildlife, and the captivating beauty of Rwanda. Enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful overnight stay, savoring the memories of this once-in-a-lifetime journey!

Driving distance:

Activities: 1 Golden Monkeys Trek + Karisoke Research Center tour

Overnight: Value - Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Midrange - Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Luxury -Bisate Lodge   

Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast

DAY 4: RWANDAN GORILLA TRACKING IN VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK + INTERCULTURAL EXCHANGE

After an early-hearty breakfast, you will proceed to the National Park headquarters – Kinigi to meet your guides for the day.  Soon following completing the necessary park formalities, you will embark on an extraordinary adventure—tracking the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This experience is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe these incredible creatures, often referred to as our closest living relatives. As you make your way through the enchanting light mountain forest on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, anticipation builds. When you finally spot a family of these remarkable primates, you’ll find yourself in awe as you observe their behaviors and interactions up close. With fewer than 700 mountain gorillas left in the world, each moment spent with them feels both unique and profoundly special.  The peak of your 6 day gorilla tours is soon upon you!

Meeting The Mountain Gorillas

Once you’re within meters of these gentle giants, the excitement intensifies. For a full hour, you’ll be granted the privilege of watching them in their natural environment. You might find yourself sharing a silent gaze with a silverback, the dominant male, who holds an air of majesty as he surveys his surroundings. Alternatively, you could witness playful juveniles as they swing from branches or engage in lighthearted wrestling matches. These captivating interactions serve as a reminder of our shared ancestry, sparking a sense of connection that is truly unforgettable.

The trek to reach the gorillas can be challenging, with some hikes lasting up to six hours through the dense foliage at high altitude. To ensure your enjoyment, it’s essential to be in good health and have a reasonable level of fitness. Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned hiker; even those over 70 have successfully completed this trek! Your guide can always arrange for a shorter route if needed. It’s advisable to wear sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, and gloves to protect against stinging nettles. Be sure to pack snacks and plenty of water, as the rainforest can become hot and humid during the day.

Transfer To Red Rocks Rwanda

After your unforgettable hour with the gorillas, return to the lodge to enjoy a well-deserved lunch, reflecting on the extraordinary experience you just had. Later in the day, deepen your connection to Rwandan culture with a visit to the Red Rocks Intercultural Exchange Center. Here, you'll discover the fascinating art of brewing local banana beer, learning about the fermentation process and the rich traditions that accompany this time-honored craft. You’ll also have the chance to join local women in squeezing fresh banana juice or savoring a glass of this delightful beverage.

As you engage with the community, you can participate in activities such as basket weaving, which not only allows you to learn traditional crafts but also supports local artisans. This immersive experience will leave you feeling inspired and enriched by the warmth of the Rwandan people and their vibrant culture. After a day filled with adventure and cultural exploration, you'll return to your hotel for a delicious dinner and a restful night, cherishing the incredible memories of your journey.

Driving distance:  45 minutes

Activities: 1 Gorilla Trek + Intercultural Exchange

Overnight: Value - Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Midrange -Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Luxury -Bisate Lodge   

Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast

DAY 5: DEPARTURE FOR RUBAVU

After an early breakfast, embark on your journey to Rubavu, the largest port on the Rwandan shore of Lake Kivu, accompanied by our knowledgeable guide who will show you around. Once you arrive, set off on a delightful tour of Lake Kivu, where you can take in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Following your boat adventure, take some time to explore the vibrant town, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the local market or strolling through the leafy streets to admire the charming old colonial buildings. As the day winds down, return to your hotel for a delicious dinner and a comfortable overnight stay, reflecting on the day's adventures in this beautiful lakeside haven.

Driving distance:   1 ½ Hours

Activity: 1 Hour boat ride

Overnight: Value - Kivu Paradise Resort | Midrange/Luxury - Kivu Serena Hotel 

Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast

DAY 6: DEPARTURE

After breakfast you will bid your host good bye then depart for Kigali and depending on your departure flight timings your day starts with a tour of the city.  Named in 1907 by Dr. Richard Kandt, the first colonial resident governor of Rwanda; Kigali city is surrounded by lush hills of green and is referred to as the land of a thousand hills. Get to visit interesting spots which may include; the craft market, Gisozi genocide memorial site & Kigali museum. Engage in last minute shopping in one of the friendliest African capitals, before returning to the airport for your onward international flight back home.

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Driving distance:  3 ½ Hours

Activities: Kigali City Tour

Overnight: Own arrangement

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

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