One Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda with Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
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One Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda with Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

Active
(19 reviews)
6h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on an unforgettable one-day Gorilla Trekking adventure in Rwanda, with an optional visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund or the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. A thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime journey into the misty heart of Volcanoes National Park to encounter the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas & explore a vibrant ex-poacher community. Perfect for travelers short on time but big on adventure.

Coming face-to-face with a mountain gorilla is raw, wild, and deeply moving—many say it’s life-changing. You'll be close enough to hear their breath, smell their earthy, sweet scent, and feel the primal connection—we share 98% of their DNA, after all.

Kick off your epic day with an early departure from Kigali on a scenic 2–2.5 hour Enjoy a seamless and comfortable journey with our premium 4×4 safari vehicles, equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity to keep you in touch with your loved ones & the world, plus onboard power charging systems to keep your devices fully powered throughout your adventure.

Available options

Gorilla trek, Gorilla Guardian

IBYIWACU Cultural Village : a visit to the Iby'iwacu Cultural Village for traditional performances and crafts, and the return drive to Kigal<br/>World-class<br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>Lunch and drinks are included<br/>Kigali - Volcanoes National P: Kigali - Musanze - Volcanoes National Park <br/>4WD: Safari Vehicle <br/>Tourist permit fee excluded : Foreign non-residents: $1,500 USD, Africans and Foreign residents: $500 USD, Rwandans/East African citizens: $200 USD<br/>Pickup included

Gorilla trek, Dian Fossey G fu

Ellen DeGeneres Campus: a visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund<br/>World-class<br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>Lunch and beverages included<br/>Kigali - Volcanoes National P: Kigali - Musanze - Volcanoes National Park <br/>4WD: 4x4 safari vehicle, Land Cruiser <br/>Tourist permit fee excluded : Foreign non-residents: $1,500 USD, Africans and Foreign residents: $500 USD, Rwandans/East African citizens: $200 USD<br/>Pickup included

What's included

• Optional Visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund or Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village.
• Private Transport: 4x4 Safari vehicle, 4x4 Safari Car
• Pick-up and drop-off anywhere in Kigali City and or Kigali airport
•Stay Connected On Board with Wi-Fi and Power Charging System for your devices & comfortable Journey
• Unforgettable photo opportunities that last a lifetime – every moment is wild and wonderful.
• Gorilla Trekking Certificate By Afri Safaris
• Professional driver guide by Afri Safaris
• Assistance with the tourist permit application process for gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
• Lunch • Plenty of Water • Coffee (Beverages).

Detailed itinerary

1

A transfer, begins & ends in Kigali

SIMPLE ITINERARY:

You should wake up early & order for breakfast as you wait for the driver to pick you up. Afri Safaris driver guide will take you to the RDB headquarter in Kinigi for briefing by 7:00am. This briefing is very important and is where you will meet other tourists and Rangers who will be leading you to the forest. The briefing covers many topics but the most important is how to behave around the gorillas, what to expect and what to carry along while tracking the gorillas. You will be assigned a gorilla family taking into consideration your overall fitness and age. This is because some of the gorilla groups are located deeper in the forest hence requiring more hours of trekking. Porters are available to help you with extra luggage. Park Rangers will lead you into the forest to track the primates. Trekking takes btn 2 to 6 hours.

After an hour of observing the mountain gorillas, our Guide will be waiting for you at the starting point.

2

After Gorilla trekking, then you will be transferred to Iby'iwacu cultural village. Iby'iwacu Cultural Village is a village of ex-poachers, those previously stealing the gorillas due to poverty, they now stopped poaching. The Iby’iwacu cultural village is one of the leading cultural attractions in Rwanda. The Village combines all of Rwanda’s known cultural traditions, people & history into one place for display & a personal experience. International visitors get to see what life was in a typical African village setting – the lifestyle, houses, traditional dances, dressing code, food, herbs & how the ancient kingdoms were generally organized. Tourists are given an opportunity to learn ancient hunting skills, try weaving baskets/mats, carpentry. This unique experience has won the hearts of many visitors who wish to indulge in the culture of Rwanda’s native community after seeing gorillas. Village offers an opportunities to purchase local craft, gifts & souvenir to show friends back home.

3

The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund in Rwanda is a fantastic place for those interested in wildlife conservation, gorillas, and the legacy of Dian Fossey. It's a hub for education, research, and conservation efforts, particularly focused on the endangered mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park region.

1. Learn About Gorillas and Conservation
The campus has educational exhibits that provide in-depth information about gorilla behavior, the history of Dian Fossey's work, and the current conservation efforts to protect mountain gorillas.

You can explore interactive displays that highlight the work of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and its impact on protecting gorillas and their habitat.

2. Visit the Gorilla Research Center
You can get an up-close look at the research efforts dedicated to understanding gorilla behavior, health, & conservation challenges. This includes a detailed look at how gorilla tracking, monitoring, & anti-poaching efforts are managed.

4

Stop by Migano Cafe in Musanze for the lunch (•Hot lunch of your choice on the food menu at Migano Cafe Musanze)

What's not included

• Gorilla permit costs vary by nationality. Permits are limited daily & must be purchased in advance
• Tips • Porter fees •Personal expenses
• Everything else not mentioned in the inclusions

Available languages

Guide guide
EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
17 reviews
5★
17
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Kigali

Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is known for its cleanliness, safety, and vibrant culture. It's a city of rolling hills, bustling markets, and a rich history, offering a unique blend of urban development and traditional Rwandan charm. The city is a gateway to Rwanda's incredible wildlife and natural beauty, making it an ideal starting point for any visit to the country.

Top Attractions

Kigali Genocide Memorial

A poignant and important site that commemorates the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. The memorial includes a museum, mass graves, and a garden of remembrance.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Mount Kigali

A scenic hill offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the city. It's a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to escape the urban hustle.

Nature 2-4 hours Free

Kigali City Tower

A historic tower built by the Germans in 1907, offering a glimpse into Kigali's colonial past. The tower is surrounded by a small park and is a popular spot for photos.

Architecture 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Brochettes

Grilled meat skewers, typically made with goat or beef, and served with a side of salad or fried potatoes.

Snack Not vegetarian or vegan.

Ugali

A staple dish made from maize flour, often served with a side of vegetables, meat, or stew.

Main course Vegetarian (check for meat in accompanying dishes).

Isombe

A traditional dish made with cassava leaves, eggplant, and often served with peanuts or beans.

Main course Vegetarian (can be made vegan if needed).

Popular Activities

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park Hiking in Nyungwe National Park Boating on Lake Kivu Visiting a traditional Rwandan spa Exploring the Kigali Genocide Memorial Visiting local markets and cultural centers Boating and fishing on Lake Kivu Not applicable

Best Time to Visit

June to September and December to February

These months offer the best weather for exploring Kigali and its surroundings. The dry season means fewer rain showers and more comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Kinyarwanda, English, French
  • Widely spoken: English, French, Swahili
  • English: Widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among younger generations

Currency

Rwandan Franc (RWF)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kigali is one of the safest cities in Africa, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air
  • Kigali International Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus

Kigali Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

SACCO buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Kigali. They are affordable and cover most of the city. However, they can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDrive, Yango

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nyamirambo Kacyiru

Day trips

Volcanoes National Park
2-3 hours by car • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its mountain gorilla trekking. The park offers a unique opportunity to see these endangered animals in their natural habitat.

Lake Kivu
2-3 hours by car • Full day or overnight

A beautiful lake offering a variety of water activities, scenic views, and relaxation. The surrounding towns, such as Gisenyi and Kibuye, offer accommodations and dining options.

Festivals

Kigali Up • Annual, typically in July Rwanda Film Festival (HoroMbye) • Annual, typically in October

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Kinyarwanda to enhance your cultural experience and connect with locals.
  • Hire a local guide for a more informative and immersive experience, especially when visiting cultural sites and markets.
  • Take advantage of Kigali's vibrant coffee culture by visiting local cafes and coffee tours.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and always ask permission before taking someone's photo.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, especially when walking alone at night.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 0-100
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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