Day 1 – Transfer to Musanze/Volcanoes National Park:

On this first day, you will be picked up from Kigali at 8 AM for your journey to Musanze in northern Rwanda. The drive to Musanze/Volcanoes National Park takes approximately two hours, showcasing Rwanda’s beautiful landscape of lush, rolling hills—hence the name “land of a thousand hills.” Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Optional Activities:

-Visit the Twin Lakes (Burera and Ruhondo): Explore the picturesque Twin Lakes set against the backdrop of the Virunga Mountains. Enjoy a one-hour boat or canoe ride on Lake Burera, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of rolling hills.

– Cultural Experience at Gorilla Guardians Village: This village, primarily run by former poachers, showcases various Rwandan cultures and traditions. You’ll be treated to cultural presentations, including traditional dance performances, displays of royal marriage ceremonies, and ancient hunting techniques. As this is a brief tour, you can select an additional activity from the options above.

– Kigali City Tour: Alternatively, if you wish, you can start your day with a half-day tour of Kigali City from 8 AM to 12 PM, visiting iconic landmarks, museums, local markets, art galleries, and nature reserves, based on your interests. After lunch in Kigali, you will then head to Volcanoes National Park. Accommodation Options: – Budget: Isange Paradise Resort — Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel – Upper Mid-range. Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner.

Day 2 – Gorilla Tracking in Volcanoes National Park and Return to Kigali:

Following an early breakfast, you will transfer to the park office in Kinigi by 7 AM. Here, you will meet your park guides and be assigned to one of the 12 habituated gorilla families, with a maximum of eight guests per group. The guides will provide a briefing on gorilla trekking etiquette before you drive to the park boundary, where your trek into the forest will begin. The search for the gorillas typically takes 2 to 3 hours, but it may vary based on the gorillas’ movements.

Be prepared for a moderately strenuous hike through a steep, forested area. Porters are available for hire at $10 each to assist with your backpack and offer support in challenging spots. A “royal stretcher” is also available for elders or those with mobility challenges for an additional fee of $300. Once you find the gorillas, you will have one hour to observe and follow them before retracing your steps to meet your driver. You will then transfer back to the lodge to refresh, check out, and head back to Kigali. Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch.