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5-Day Volcanoes & Golden Monkey Safari
Safari Overview
This 5-day safari focuses on Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s famed mountain gorilla and golden monkey sanctuary. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want rare primate encounters in Rwanda’s volcanic forests, this itinerary offers golden monkey trekking, optional gorilla viewing, cultural immersion, and scenic nature walks. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes, this is Rwanda at its most wild and beautiful.
Safari Highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 2: Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Day 3: Optional gorilla trekking or guided forest hike
Day 4: Cultural village visit and nature walks
Day 5: Return to Kigali and departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Usoke Explorers guide and transferred to Volcanoes National Park, approximately a 2.5-hour drive north through Rwanda’s stunning countryside. The journey takes you through rolling hills, terraced farmlands, and vibrant villages, offering a glimpse into the beauty of the Land of a Thousand Hills.
Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon, with spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Check in and settle into your accommodation. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure, allowing you to relax and acclimatise to the altitude.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at the lodge, with the volcanoes silhouetted against the setting sun.
Accommodation: Volcanoes National Park Lodge
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Wake early for breakfast and transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing by Rwanda Development Board rangers. You’ll learn about the golden monkeys’ behaviour, habitat, and conservation efforts before setting out into the bamboo forests of the Virunga slopes.
The trek through the bamboo forest is generally shorter and less strenuous than gorilla trekking, taking approximately 1 to 3 hours. Golden monkeys are highly energetic and social creatures, moving quickly through the bamboo canopy. You’ll watch them leap from stalk to stalk, feed on bamboo shoots, and interact with one another in lively social groups.
Spend up to one hour observing and photographing these rare primates in their natural habitat. The golden monkey is endemic to the Albertine Rift and is listed as an endangered species, making this a truly special encounter. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. The afternoon is free for you to unwind, enjoy the views, or explore the lodge’s surroundings.
Accommodation: Volcanoes National Park Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Optional Gorilla Trekking or Guided Forest Hike
Today offers flexibility to customise your experience based on your preferences and budget.
Option 1: Gorilla Trekking (Permit Required)
If you wish to add mountain gorilla trekking to your safari, this is your opportunity. A gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1,500 per person and must be booked well in advance. You’ll be assigned to a habituated gorilla family and trek through the volcanic forest for an unforgettable hour with these gentle giants. The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family.
Option 2: Guided Forest Hike
If you prefer not to do the gorilla trek, embark on a guided forest hike through Volcanoes National Park. Explore the volcanic slopes, bamboo forests, and diverse ecosystems that make this park a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guide will point out medicinal plants, bird species, and smaller primates along the way. The hike offers spectacular viewpoints over the Virunga Massif.
Return to the lodge in the afternoon for relaxation, spa treatments, or photography. The lodge’s elevated position offers stunning sunset views over the volcanoes.
Accommodation: Volcanoes National Park Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Cultural Village Visit and Nature Walks
Today is dedicated to Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage. After breakfast, drive to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, a community-led tourism initiative near Musanze. This is one of Rwanda’s most authentic cultural experiences, offering insight into the country’s pre-colonial history, monarchy, and traditions.
You’ll be welcomed with traditional songs and dances. Learn about Rwanda’s ancient monarchy, the role of the king, and the social structures that shaped Rwandan society. The village showcases traditional homesteads, craft-making, and storytelling. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in traditional activities such as grinding sorghum, making banana beer, and preparing local dishes.
In the afternoon, enjoy a short guided hike to nearby volcanic craters or crater lakes. The landscape around Musanze is dotted with extinct volcanic cones and beautiful crater lakes, offering stunning views and excellent opportunities for nature photography. Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Volcanoes National Park Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Return to Kigali and Departure
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kigali. The scenic drive offers one last chance to enjoy the rolling hills and rural landscapes of Rwanda. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have the opportunity to stop for lunch at a local restaurant or visit additional sites along the way.
Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, carrying with you memories of golden monkeys, volcanic forests, and the warm hospitality of Rwanda.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Safari Inclusions
- Golden monkey trekking permit
- Accommodation for 4 nights
- All meals as specified in the itinerary
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All ground transfers
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle
- Park entrance fees
- Cultural village visit and guided nature walks
- Bottled drinking water during the trip
- Government taxes and park fees
Safari Exclusions
- International flights and visas
- Travel insurance mandatory
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and souvenirs
- Optional gorilla trekking permit if chosen
- Porter fees during trekking recommended
- Tips and gratuities for guides and staff recommended $10 to $15 per person per day
- Accommodation in Kigali before and after the safari
