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1 Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

1 Day

Gorilla trekking Safari in Rwanda

This 1 Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda is designed for travelers who want to experience one of the world’s most profound wildlife encounters—a face-to-face meeting with Rwanda Gorillas—all within a single day.

Your Gorilla Tour journey begins before sunrise, departing Kigali at 4:30 AM. As the city lights fade in your rearview mirror, the road leads you through Rwanda’s iconic rolling hills, early-morning mist, and the quiet rhythm of villages waking up. The drive itself is a warm introduction to the “Land of a Thousand Hills”—calm, scenic, and emotionally grounding.

Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, the anticipation builds. The air is crisp, birdsong fills the forest edges, and the towering Virunga volcanoes stand like silent guardians. After a detailed briefing, you’ll be assigned to a gorilla family based on your fitness level and interest. Then, with an expert ranger and porters by your side, you begin your trek through thick bamboo forest, winding trails, and patches of dense jungle.

The moment you meet the gorillas is unforgettable. Watching a silverback command the forest with quiet strength… seeing playful juveniles tumble around… observing mothers cradle their young—it’s emotional, humbling, and deeply moving. You’ll spend a magical hour with them, capturing photos, listening to their sounds, and simply absorbing the presence of these gentle giants.

This short but powerful gorilla tour is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to experience Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife adventure.

Trip Highlights

  • Gorilla Trekking

Itinerary

  • Day
    01

    Transfer to Volcanoes National Park for Gorilla Trekking Adventure

    Your day starts early at 4:30 AM, where your guide picks you up from your hotel in Kigali. As you drive north toward Volcanoes National Park, the sunrise slowly paints the hills in warm gold. The 2.5-hour journey offers serene views of terraced farms, mist-filled valleys, and small communities beginning their day.

    Upon arrival at the park headquarters, you join other trekkers for a briefing. The rangers explain everything about gorilla behavior, trekking rules, and safety. You are then assigned to a gorilla family and embark on your trek with the support of armed rangers and porters. The hike can be gentle or moderately challenging depending on where the gorillas nested the previous night.

    Once you find the gorillas, all the effort becomes worth it. You’ll spend one precious hour observing them, watching the silverback’s calm authority, juveniles playing in the bushes, and mothers caring for their babies. It’s emotional, intimate, and unlike any wildlife experience on the planet.

    After the trek, enjoy lunch in Musanze. In the afternoon, you drive back to Kigali, arriving early evening with unforgettable memories of your Rwanda gorilla adventure.

    End of the Tour.

Includes

  • All activities mentioned
  • Reusable Bottled water during the trip.
  • Lunch during your trip
  • A tourist vehicle rent with a professional English-speaking guide fee
  • All Taxes

Excludes

  • Extra meals and drinks not mentioned in the package.
  • Souvenirs and tips
  • Visa Fee
  • Other personal expenses
  • Bank Deposit Transfer Charge

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to go for gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking safaris is a must-do on every Rwanda safari. The endangered mountain gorillas are by far the looked-for attractions on any of the Rwanda safaris or an African safari in East Africa. The Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is perfectly conducted only in Volcanoes National Park.

How difficult is the Rwanda Gorilla Trek?

Rwanda Gorilla trek ranges from easy to moderately challenging depending on the gorilla family assigned and their location that day. Treks can take anywhere from 3 to 8 hours. Rangers assess your fitness level and assign an appropriate group. Porters are available to help carry bags and provide support throughout the hike

What should I wear for the Gorilla Trekking Safari?

On your Gorilla Trekking Safari day, wear lightweight hiking pants, long sleeves, waterproof boots, and a rain jacket. The forest can be muddy, humid, and cool. Gardening gloves help protect your hands from prickly plants. Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and a camera. We provide bottled water.

Is one day enough for a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda?

Yes. Rwanda’s proximity between Kigali and Volcanoes National Park makes a same-day experience very possible. With a 4:30 AM departure, you can complete the Rwanda Gorilla trek, enjoy lunch, and return to Kigali by evening. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time.

Are Rwanda gorilla permits guaranteed?

Rwanda Gorilla Permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Hope Tours Africa handles the entire permit process for you and confirms availability before your booking is finalized.

Can children go gorilla trekking?

Children under 15 are not allowed to go gorilla trekking due to national park regulations and safety considerations.

We are East African & Rwanda Safaris experts talk to us today to customize your tour

+250788602524
1st KN 78 ST, Norrsken House Kigali

info@hopetoursafrica.com

info@hopetoursafrica.com

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