6 Days Gorilla Trek Rwanda

from $7,500 per person

This 6-day Rwanda gorilla trekking safari is perfect for travelers seeking an immersive wildlife adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Volcanoes National Park. The journey combines unforgettable mountain gorilla encounters with scenic drives, cultural experiences, nature exploration, and time to discover Rwanda’s remarkable heritage. With opportunities for gorilla trekking and other enriching experiences, this safari offers a well-balanced introduction to Rwanda’s wildlife, rainforest scenery, and vibrant culture.

Safari Details: 6 Days Gorilla Trek Rwanda

Overview

Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Destination: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Safari Type: Gorilla Trekking & Volcanoes Rainforest Adventure
Start Point: Kigali, Rwanda
End Point: Kigali, Rwanda
Main Activities: Gorilla trekking, mountain gorilla viewing, rainforest exploration, birdwatching, cultural experiences, volcanic scenery
Accommodation: Luxury, Mid-range, or Budget Lodge
Best Time to Visit: June to September & December to February

The 6 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari to Volcanoes National Park takes travelers deep into the spectacular volcanic landscapes of northern Rwanda for an unforgettable encounter with endangered mountain gorillas. Set among the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes, Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s famous gorilla trekking destination, offering travelers the opportunity to search for habituated mountain gorilla families and observe them in their natural forest habitat.

The park's lush montane forests, bamboo vegetation, volcanic slopes, and dramatic mountain scenery create an exceptional setting for a primate and nature safari. Beyond the mountain gorillas, the region supports a variety of forest wildlife, primates, and bird species. The high-altitude environment, scenic volcanoes, and rich biodiversity make Volcanoes National Park an outstanding destination for travelers looking for a combination of wildlife, rainforest, and cultural experiences.

This 6-day gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda provides additional time to experience the Volcanoes region at a relaxed and comfortable pace. The centerpiece of the safari is a guided gorilla trek through the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains, where you will search for a habituated gorilla family and spend precious time observing their natural behavior, including feeding, resting, movement, grooming, and social interactions.

With six days available, the itinerary provides more flexibility than shorter Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris. Travelers have additional time to explore the destination beyond the main gorilla trekking experience. Depending on the final itinerary, the safari may include visits to local communities, traditional Rwandan performances, cultural encounters, local crafts, exploration around Musanze, or scenic excursions through the countryside surrounding Volcanoes National Park.

The additional time can also be used for a variety of nature and cultural experiences in the Volcanoes region. Travelers may enjoy birdwatching, rainforest walks, scenic drives, community visits, or other activities arranged around the gorilla trekking schedule. This allows the safari to combine the main wildlife experience with opportunities to appreciate Rwanda's landscapes, people, culture, and natural environment.

The journey also provides time to appreciate the dramatic Virunga volcanic scenery, with opportunities to enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and the lush countryside of northern Rwanda. Depending on the chosen itinerary and activities, travelers can experience a combination of nature, culture, wildlife, and relaxation between scheduled activities.

Combining gorilla trekking, mountain gorilla viewing, rainforest exploration, volcanic landscapes, wildlife, birdwatching, and cultural experiences, this 6-day Rwanda gorilla trekking safari offers an immersive journey into one of East Africa's most remarkable primate destinations. It is ideal for travelers who want to experience the mountain gorillas while allowing enough time to discover the landscapes, communities, and cultural character of the Volcanoes National Park region.

Detailed Itinerary: 6 Days Gorilla Trek Rwanda

Day 1: Kigali – Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast at your hotel in Kigali, meet your professional safari guide and begin the scenic journey north toward Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s renowned mountain gorilla destination.

The drive takes you through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside, with opportunities to enjoy views of rolling hills, cultivated farmland, rural communities, and beautiful landscapes that have earned Rwanda its reputation as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Continue toward Musanze, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. As you approach the Virunga volcanic region, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering volcanic peaks rising above the surrounding landscape. Depending on your schedule, you may stop along the way for photography, refreshments, lunch, or a short cultural experience.

Proceed to your lodge near the park and check in during the afternoon. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing and preparing for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Your guide will provide practical information about the trek, including what to carry, suitable clothing, responsible gorilla-viewing practices, and other preparations for your experience in the forest.

Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Wake up early and enjoy breakfast before transferring to Kinigi, the main gorilla trekking briefing and registration area near Volcanoes National Park.

After registration and a briefing from the park authorities and ranger guides, begin your trek into the montane forests of Volcanoes National Park in search of an assigned habituated mountain gorilla family.

The trek can involve steep slopes, muddy or uneven trails, and varying walking times depending on the location and movement of the gorilla family. Your experienced trackers and ranger guides will lead the way and help you navigate the forest.

As you make your way through the Virunga ecosystem, you may encounter forest birds, primates, butterflies, and a wide variety of plants. Your guides will also share information about the forest, wildlife, and conservation efforts protecting this unique habitat.

Once you find your assigned gorilla family, enjoy an unforgettable encounter as you observe these remarkable animals in their natural environment. You may see them feeding, resting, grooming, playing, caring for young ones, or moving through the forest.

The encounter is carefully managed to minimize disturbance to the gorillas. Visitors are expected to follow the instructions of the ranger guides, maintain the required viewing distance, avoid sudden movements, and observe responsible gorilla trekking practices.

After spending time with the gorillas, trek back through the forest to the starting point and return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation.

The afternoon can be spent resting at the lodge or enjoying a community or cultural experience around Musanze, depending on your interests and schedule.

Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking or Dian Fossey Experience

After breakfast, enjoy another memorable experience in the Volcanoes National Park region.

Depending on your selected activities and availability, you may participate in golden monkey trekking, an exciting primate experience in the Virunga forest. The trek provides an opportunity to explore the forest while searching for the endangered golden monkeys that inhabit the region.

Alternatively, you may choose a visit to the Dian Fossey Tomb and former Karisoke Research Centre area. This experience provides insight into the history of mountain gorilla research and conservation in the Virunga region. The hike also offers beautiful forest scenery and a deeper understanding of the conservation work associated with Dian Fossey and the gorillas.

For travelers interested in local culture, another option is a Rwandan cultural experience around Musanze, where you can learn about traditional lifestyles, local communities, crafts, music, dance, and aspects of Rwanda’s cultural heritage.

Return to your accommodation later in the day and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by the volcanic landscapes of the region.

Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Volcanoes National Park – Kigali

After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin the scenic journey from Volcanoes National Park back to Kigali.

Travel through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, enjoying views of rolling hills, cultivated farmland, rural settlements, and local communities along the route.

Depending on your interests and schedule, you may make stops for photography, refreshments, or a cultural experience before continuing to Kigali.

On arrival in Kigali, check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day relaxing after your gorilla trekking adventure.

You may also choose to explore parts of Kigali, visit local markets, enjoy a city tour, or simply rest at your hotel.

Accommodation: Kigali hotel
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 5: Kigali City Tour and Cultural Experience

After breakfast, spend the day discovering Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Your city experience can be tailored around your interests and departure schedule.

You may visit selected attractions and landmarks, explore local markets, purchase souvenirs, or experience aspects of Rwanda’s contemporary culture and everyday life.

A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial can also be arranged for travelers interested in learning about Rwanda’s history and remembering the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Depending on your interests, you may also enjoy a local food experience, visit art galleries and craft centres, or explore some of Kigali’s neighbourhoods with your guide.

Return to your hotel later in the day and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Accommodation: Kigali hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6: Kigali – Departure

Enjoy your final breakfast in Rwanda and prepare for your departure.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to relax at the hotel, enjoy a final meal, or make a short visit to a local market for last-minute souvenirs.

Your safari guide will then transfer you to Kigali International Airport in time for your departure flight.

This marks the end of your 6 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda safari, combining an unforgettable mountain gorilla encounter with golden monkey or conservation experiences, scenic volcanic landscapes, cultural discovery, and time to explore Kigali.

Meals: Breakfast

Trip Includes

Airport pickup and drop-off at Kigali International Airport
Private transportation throughout the safari in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle
Services of a professional, English-speaking safari guide/driver
Gorilla trekking permit for Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Drinking water during safari drives
All scheduled ground transportation and transfers
Park entrance and applicable conservation fees included in the itinerary
Golden monkey trekking permit where selected and paid for as part of the package
Dian Fossey/Karisoke hike or cultural experience where included in the selected itinerary
Kigali city tour and scheduled cultural activities
Government taxes and service charges
Assistance with safari planning and permit arrangements
24/7 support from Ababa Uganda Safaris during the safari

Trip Excludes

International and domestic flights
Rwanda visa and entry requirements
Travel insurance
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, drinks, and souvenirs
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, lodge staff, and porters
Alcoholic and premium beverages
Porter fees during gorilla trekking
Personal trekking equipment and clothing
Additional activities not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
Additional nights or accommodation outside the planned itinerary
Meals and services not specified under the itinerary
Medical or emergency evacuation costs
Any expenses resulting from changes to the itinerary caused by circumstances beyond the operator's control

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What our travelers say

    
 
 
         
   Robert K 
 
 
 
 Verified Bucket list seeing the Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi
Just an awesome trip . Everything went smoothly from booking to the end . All was as promised never missed anything , always on time , friendly etc. resort that was recommended was perfect , great food , comfortable . Saw the gorillas easily all was perfect . Jonathan the owner even took me in Kampala to buy the right clothes , took me him self . Noel and driver were excellent , never an issue they really cared. I trust this company , will use them again and highly recommend .
  
 
        
   Maltes Traveller 
 
 
 
 Verified Highly recommended
We had a wonderful experience with Jonathan. He welcomed us at the airport and took great care of us from the moment we arrived until the end of our trip. The selection of hotels was impeccable, and the route he designed was perfectly planned. Jonathan is extremely knowledgeable about wildlife and went the extra mile to make sure we saw lions and all of the Big Five during our visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park. He was always attentive, patient, and eager to make our experience unforgettable. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide — highly recommended!
  
 
        
   bharti n 
 
 
 
 Verified Exceptional experience, enriching and truly unforgettable.
From the moment we landed we received a warm welcome. Jonathan was friendly and readily available to answer any queries throughout our trip. He was incredibly accommodating with our requests to visit schools, residences ensuring that we achieved everything we wanted from the trip. We had a great time with Jonathan and driver Isaac. Jonathan was very funny and very knowledgeable he became part of the family and the time just flew whilst we were there, we felt safe at all times. The food at each venue catered for all our needs. Definitely leant a lot on this trip. Just need to be aware that food ordered in restaurants do take a long time as they make it from scratch so if pushed for time might be advisable to pre order. We had unforgettable holiday and this company went above and beyond to make every moment special. I would recommend them to anyone.
  
 
        
   vjpar 
 
 
 
 Verified Great service from this local company
We done a road trip across East Africa from Uganda to Tanzania. Jonathan and his team facilitated our trip across Uganda and Kenya which proved to be a very enjoyable experience. Guided knowledge provided by Jonathan was excellent as was his humor and wit. We always felt safe and informed, he managed the journey very well indeed. We would definitely use Jonathan's services again.
  
 
        
   Adam John Smith 
 
 
 
 Verified Magical Uganda Safari Journey – February 2025!
I had an unforgettable experience with Ababa Uganda Safaris! From the moment I arrived, everything was well-organized, and the team was incredibly friendly and professional. The tour guides were knowledgeable, sharing fascinating insights about the wildlife and culture. Seeing gorillas up close in Bwindi and exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park was a dream come true. The accommodations were comfortable, and every detail was taken care of. I truly felt immersed in Uganda’s beauty without any stress. If you're planning a trip to Uganda, I highly recommend Ababa Uganda Safaris for a seamless and memorable adventure!
  
 
        
   Madhvi 
 
 
 
 Verified .gorilla trek
Our KQ flight was horribly delayed. From 2.30 pm to arriving @ almost 3 am the following day. Jonathan kindly arranged for airport pick at this early hour of day and even rescheduled our departure for bwindi so we could get some rest. That was very accommodating.the drive to bwindi was a long drive -11 hrs- n he informed hotel of our late arrival. The lodge he chose for us was good and comfortable. However the vehicle for transporti g us could be better as it was quite hot without air conditioning. Gorilla trek was good but tough. Overall Ababa safaris were very accommodating. I wouldrecommend them. The hotel in Kampala- Speke hotel leaves a lot to be desired
  
 
        
   mo-marvin 
 
 
 
 Verified Such a wonderful experience!!
My family and I contacted Jonathan to help us plan our first Murchison Falls safari. Jonathan arranged our transport from Kampala, with a stop at Ziwa Rhino sanctuary and guided game drives through Murchison falls. Ronnie, our professional driver and guide, was very knowledgeable and paid close attention to details to make us comfortable. He met with us a day before takeoff to answer any outstanding questions and recommended a time for us to set off to avoid any traffic. His experience made our trip even more enjoyable because we knew what to expect for entry fees into the park, where to stop to use clean washrooms, eat good food, and also what side of the boat cruise to sit on for the best views! We saw lions, elephants, giraffes, job, rhinos, buffaloes and many other animals. We would definitely go with them for our next safari in Uganda! They had great communication, value for money, professionalism, knowledge of the industry and were very reliable.
  
 
        
   Katelyn O 
 
 
 
 Verified A must-hire company! Punctual, professional, great communication.
We used Ababa Safaris for a trip from Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park. I would HIGHLY recommend! Our driver picked us up in a large safari vehicle with a pop up roof. The driver was very punctual and had excellent communication while preparing for the trip and during the trip. Ronnie took us to a nice restaurant for a rest stop that had clean bathrooms and good food. He was friendly with many people we met along the way at the Rhino Sanctuary, on the safari trails, and at our chosen lodging. It felt as though he had good connections with people, which we took as a good sign. Ronnie was very knowledgeable about the best places to see the animals and gave us a great safari experience. As the person in the family who does much of the planning, it was a very enjoyable experience to hand all of that over to Ababa and really get to enjoy myself.
  
 
        
   Hoehlenhonk 
 
 
 
 Verified Animals and beautiful nature in Uganda and Rwanda
From being picked-up from Entebbe airport in the middle of the night until the drop-off eleven days later in Kigali it was a perfect tour. Jonathan, our guide, and the driver Moses was a perfect team - very friendly, knowledgable and always in time. We visited Entebbe for a tour through the botanical gardens and the zoo, did safaris and boat trips in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth NP and did trekkings to the chimpazees in Kibale and to the mountain gorillas in Rwanda. The primates are a must visit when you travel to this region. It's expensive but worth every dollar. The safari parks are of course not as rich in animals as for example the Masai Mara. But they are much cheaper, there are much lesser tourists and nevertheless it doesn't become boring regarding animal sightings. We saw a lot of different antelopes, beautiful giraffes, lions, many elephants, buffalos, a lot of hippos and crocodiles and much more. The choice of hotels was very good, simple and cheap where there was only a short overnight stay and a bit more expensive where it was worth to spend the money for staying close to the places of interest, e.g. close to the starting point for primate trekkings or in the middle of QENP and Murchison NP for not loosing game-drive-time.
  
 
        
   Dilip P 
 
 
 
 Verified UGANDA SAFARI WITH ABABA
We had a nice holiday with ABABA SAFARI in Uganda it was a nice experience in Uganda and the travel agent as well especially Jonathan was our tour guide very nice person he was always very helpful and kind. we traveled about 1200km but had no problem I am a vegetarian and wherever we go he always arranges something for me i recommend them at and competitive price I give them a 5-star