5 Day Rwanda Golden Monkeys & Gorillas Safari
5 Day Rwanda Golden Monkeys & Gorillas Safari is a 5 Day Rwanda safari focusing on Gorilla and Golden Monkey trekking, typically centred around Volcanoes National Park, often starting and ending in Kigali. This itinerary offers a balance of primate encounters, cultural immersion, and scenic exploration.
Day 1: Arrival & Kigali City Tour
Pick up from Kigali International Airport or your Hotel. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local craft markets, such as Caplaki. Transfer to Musanze, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park (approx. 2–3 hour drive).
Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Early morning briefing at the Park headquarters. Trek through the bamboo forest to spend one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family. Evening relaxation or an optional visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village (Gorilla Guardians Village).
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking & Twin Lakes
Trek to see the playful, endangered Golden Monkeys in the high-altitude bamboo forests. Afternoon visit to the Twin Lakes (Burera and Ruhondo) or a walk through the Musanze Caves.
Day 4: Exploration or Hiking
Choice of a hike to Dian Fossey’s Tomb at the Karisoke Research Centre. Alternatively, a challenging hike to the crater lake on Mount Bisoke. Transfer to Lake Kivu (Gisenyi) for an evening of relaxation by the water.
Day 5: Lake Kivu & Return to Kigali
Morning boat cruise or walk along the Congo Nile Trail. Transfer back to Kigali for your departure flight.
Essential Safari Details
- Permit Costs (2026):
- Gorilla Permit: $1,500 per person for foreign non-residents.
- Golden Monkey Permit: Typically around $100 per person (often included in pre-booked tour packages).
Best Time to Visit:
- Dry Seasons: June to September and December to February are ideal for easier trekking conditions.
- Rainy Seasons: March to May and October to November offer lush scenery and may have better Lodge availability.
Top Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge, and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
- Mid-Range/Budget: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Kinigi Guesthouse, and Hotel Muhabura.
