Overview

4 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Golden Monkeys and Dian Fossey Tour : This 4 Days Rwanda Safari takes you to Volcanoes National Park, to explore its beauty by trekking the two rare primate species namely the mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Each of them will be tracked on a different day.

You will also have a short adventure of hiking to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and the grave yard for an insight about mountain gorillas and the role that was played by this female primatologist in protecting these endangered primates in the Virunga region. Dian Fossey introduced gorilla habituation in Uganda, Rwanda and D.R. Congo, saved a good number of gorillas but unfortunately, she was murdered by unknown people at her home, which was later turned into a research center named Karisoke. This is an important Gorilla Research Center run by Fossey Fund Organization. This safari will literally reward you with the best of primate trekking and as well as attain a lot of first hand information .

Highlights

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Embark on an exhilarating mountain gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, with expert trackers and rangers guiding you through the forest.
Golden Monkey Trekking Explore the golden monkey trekking experience, where you’ll get a chance to encounter these endangered primates. The golden monkeys are playful and often seen leaping between bamboo trees, offering fantastic photographic opportunities.
Hike to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Hike to the Dian Fossey Research Center at Karisoke and learn about the life and legacy of Dian Fossey, a renowned primatologist who dedicated her life to saving mountain gorillas. You’ll also visit her grave site for a deeper understanding of the efforts to protect these endangered animals.
Learn About Gorilla Conservation Gain insights into the important conservation efforts for gorillas in the Virunga region. Visit the Dian Fossey Fund and witness firsthand how gorilla research and protection have evolved over the years.
Scenic Views of Volcanoes National Park Experience the beauty of Volcanoes National Park, a region dominated by volcanic peaks, lush forests, and bamboo forests. The stunning landscapes add to the richness of your safari experience.
Cultural Experience in Ruhengeri Visit Ruhengeri, the nearby town of Volcanoes National Park, and experience the vibrant Rwandan culture. Interact with locals, visit markets, and learn about the traditional ways of life in this part of the country.
Wildlife and Primate Photography Opportunities Enjoy incredible opportunities for wildlife and nature photography, capturing the rare moments of interacting with gorillas and golden monkeys, as well as the breathtaking landscapes surrounding you.

Day 01 :

Pick up from Kigali Airport and transfer to Volcanoes National Park

An hour before your arrival at the airport, our company representative will be there waiting to receive you. After going through the immigration, he will drive you to a nearby hotel for a meal and briefing of the safari, then transfer to Volcanoes National Park where you will stay for two nights. Arrive and check in to the lodge. Relax and later have your dinner and night stay.

Day 02 :

Gorilla trekking and Visit the Dian Fossey graveyard

Morning: Enjoy your early morning breakfast at the lodge and set off to the park headquarters in Kinigi. You will start with a briefing and thereafter be led by park rangers into the forest to start searching for mountain gorillas. This may involve walking long distances while hiking since depending on the location of the gorilla family that you were allocated. You will have an hour in the presence of the gorillas once you spot them. An overall experience can take about 3 to 5 hours. You will have lunch either in the forest or at the lodge depending on how long the trek takes.

Afternoon: Hike to Dian Fossey’s graveyard. This site is located in the park and you therefore have chances of spotting several bird species, other primates like red colobus monkeys, Vervet monkeys, red tailed monkeys and some forest mammals like elephants, bushbucks, hogs, etc.

You will arrive at the former home of Dian Fossey who died in 1985 while saving mountain gorillas. Her grave is next to other gorilla graves that she dearly loved. This will be a great time to learn about gorillas and the late female primatology researcher.

Day 03 :

Golden monkey trekking and transfer to Lake Kivu (Gisenyi)

Drive to the park offices after breakfast for another briefing, this time about golden monkey trekking. It highlights the do’s and don’ts when trekking. Golden monkey trekking will take about 3 to 4 hours but remember an hour will be allocated to you while in the presence of these primates.

Explore the forest and later head back to the lodge for lunch. Check out and head to Lake Kivu on the border of Democratic Republic of Congo. This will give you a chance to take a boat cruise and explore the surrounding areas. Check in at your booked resort for your last night of this 4-day Volcanoes and Lake Kivu safari.

Day 04 :

Head back to Kigali city.

After having breakfast at the resort, enjoy another moment to traverse through the towering hills of Rwanda to Kigali. The guide / driver will take you to the airport or hotel and this will mark the end of your this 4 days Rwanda tour.

FAQs

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FAQs for the 4 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Golden Monkeys, and Dian Fossey Tour

. Do I need a permit for gorilla trekking?
Yes, a gorilla trekking permit is required to trek mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. These permits are limited and should be booked well in advance. The cost is included in your safari package.

2. What is the best time to go on this safari?
The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. These months offer optimal trekking conditions with fewer muddy paths and better visibility.

3. Is gorilla trekking physically challenging?
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park can be physically demanding, as the trek may involve hiking through dense forests and steep terrain. However, the treks are generally manageable, and porters are available to assist if needed.

4. How long does the gorilla trekking experience take?
The gorilla trekking experience can last from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. You will spend up to an hour with the gorillas once you find them.

5. Can I take photos during gorilla trekking?
Yes, photography is allowed during gorilla trekking. However, flash photography is not permitted as it can disturb the gorillas. Make sure to keep your camera quiet and respectful.

6. Is the Dian Fossey hike difficult?
The hike to the Dian Fossey Research Center is moderately challenging. The hike lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours each way, and the terrain can be steep and slippery. It is important to be physically prepared, though it is not overly strenuous.

7. What should I bring for the trekking?
Bring sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, lightweight clothing (preferably long-sleeved shirts and pants), gloves for protection, insect repellent, and a camera for capturing the experience. Don’t forget to carry a small daypack for personal items.

8. Can children participate in gorilla trekking?
Yes, children aged 15 years and above are allowed to participate in gorilla trekking. However, it is important to check with the safari operator as there may be different age restrictions depending on the activity.

9. What is the significance of Dian Fossey’s work?
Dian Fossey was instrumental in the protection and conservation of mountain gorillas in the Virunga region. Her pioneering work helped save the species from extinction, and her research center continues to play a key role in gorilla conservation.

10. Are there other primates to see during the trek?
In addition to gorillas and golden monkeys, you may also encounter other primates such as baboons, colobus monkeys, and chimpanzees in Volcanoes National Park.