5-Day Double Gorilla Trek Rwanda
from $4,500 per person
This 5-Day Double Gorilla Trek Rwanda Safari is designed for travelers seeking an extraordinary primate experience in the breathtaking landscapes of Volcanoes National Park. The journey offers the rare opportunity to trek into the misty Virunga Mountains twice, providing two separate encounters with endangered mountain gorillas and allowing more time to appreciate their behavior, family dynamics and natural habitat. Beyond gorilla trekking, the safari can include scenic drives, cultural experiences and time to explore the beautiful surroundings of northern Rwanda. With carefully planned activities, comfortable accommodation and experienced safari guidance, this 5-day Rwanda gorilla safari combines unforgettable wildlife encounters, rainforest adventure and cultural discovery for a truly memorable experience.
Safari Details: 5-Day Double Gorilla Trek Rwanda
Overview
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Destination: Rwanda
Safari Type: Gorilla Trekking & Primate Safari
Start Point: Kigali, Rwanda
End Point: Kigali, Rwanda
Main Activities: Double gorilla trekking, mountain gorilla viewing, Volcanoes National Park, rainforest walks, scenic drives, cultural experiences, optional nature activities
Accommodation: Luxury, Mid-range, or Budget Lodge/Camp
Best Time to Visit: Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year. June to September and December to February are generally drier periods, while the wetter months can bring greener forest conditions and fewer visitors. Trekking conditions can vary by day.
The 5 Days Double Gorilla Trek Rwanda is designed for travelers seeking an extended and unforgettable mountain gorilla experience in the dramatic landscapes of Volcanoes National Park. The centerpiece of the journey is the opportunity to participate in two separate gorilla trekking experiences, giving travelers more than one chance to enter the rainforest and observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The itinerary combines gorilla trekking with scenic Virunga Mountain landscapes, relaxing time at a comfortable lodge, and opportunities to experience Rwanda's culture and countryside.
Volcanoes National Park is located in northwestern Rwanda and forms part of the larger Virunga conservation landscape shared by Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Its volcanic mountains, bamboo forests, montane vegetation and rainforest provide important habitat for endangered mountain gorillas and other wildlife. The park is also associated with the conservation legacy of Dian Fossey and the Karisoke Research Center, making the region one of Africa's most important destinations for mountain gorilla conservation and research.
The main highlight of this 5-day Rwanda gorilla safari is the opportunity to trek twice. Each gorilla trek is a separate wildlife experience, and the location, terrain, duration and difficulty can vary depending on the gorilla group assigned for the day. Spending additional time in the region provides travelers with another opportunity to experience the forest and observe gorilla behavior, including feeding, resting, social interactions and movement through their natural environment.
Gorilla trekking takes place on foot through the mountainous forest of Volcanoes National Park. The trek can involve uneven ground, steep slopes, muddy trails and changing weather conditions. Trek duration depends on the location and movement of the gorilla family being visited, so travelers should be prepared for anything from a relatively short walk to several hours of hiking. Wildlife sightings and the exact trekking conditions cannot be guaranteed.
Once the gorilla family is located, travelers can observe the animals under the regulations established by the park authorities. The experience offers opportunities to appreciate the behavior and social structure of mountain gorillas while maintaining an appropriate distance and following the instructions of the trekking guides and trackers. Because the gorillas are wild animals, every encounter is naturally different.
The double gorilla trekking format is particularly suited to travelers who want more time and flexibility for their primate experience. The two trekking days do not guarantee a particular gorilla family or a specific type of encounter, but they provide two separate opportunities to explore the forest and observe mountain gorillas. The second trek can also offer a different perspective of the Virunga ecosystem depending on the assigned group and trail conditions.
Beyond gorilla trekking, the safari allows travelers to discover the beautiful landscapes surrounding Rwanda's volcanic region. The Virunga Mountains create a spectacular backdrop of forested volcanic peaks, while nearby communities provide opportunities to learn more about local culture and everyday life. Depending on the final itinerary, travelers can also include activities such as a visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund/Karisoke area, a cultural village experience, nature walks or other optional excursions.
Rwanda's compact geography makes it possible to combine the gorilla experience with time in Kigali, the country's capital. Depending on the arrival and departure schedules, the itinerary can include a city tour, local markets, cultural attractions or time to relax before or after the gorilla trekking portion of the safari.
Accommodation can be arranged according to your preferred travel style and budget. Luxury lodges can provide premium comfort and convenient access to Volcanoes National Park, while mid-range and budget accommodation provides practical alternatives for travelers who want to focus their budget on the gorilla trekking experience and other activities.
The safari can also be customized around your preferred pace. Travelers seeking a more relaxed experience can spend additional time at their lodge between activities, while those interested in exploring more of the region can add cultural or nature-based experiences. The itinerary can be adapted according to gorilla permit availability, travel dates, accommodation preferences and other interests.
Whether you are searching for a 5-day double gorilla trekking Rwanda safari, a 5-day Rwanda gorilla safari, a double gorilla trek in Rwanda, or an extended Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking experience, this itinerary provides an opportunity to experience mountain gorillas on two separate trekking days while exploring the remarkable landscapes of northern Rwanda.
With two gorilla trekking experiences, time in Volcanoes National Park, spectacular Virunga Mountain scenery, comfortable accommodation and opportunities to experience Rwanda's culture, the 5 Days Double Gorilla Trek Rwanda is designed for travelers who want to spend more time immersed in one of Africa's most remarkable primate destinations.
Detailed Itinerary: 5-Day Double Gorilla Trek Rwanda
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Your 5 Days Double Gorilla Trek Rwanda adventure begins with arrival at Kigali International Airport, where you will be welcomed by an Ababa Uganda Safaris representative and introduced to your professional safari guide. After a short briefing about the journey, you will begin your scenic drive toward Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda.
The drive takes you through Rwanda's beautiful countryside, with rolling hills, cultivated landscapes and local communities providing an introduction to the country's scenery and way of life. As you travel toward the Virunga Mountains, the landscape gradually becomes more mountainous and dramatic.
Upon arrival in the Volcanoes region, you will check into your lodge and have time to relax after the journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy the surroundings of the lodge or take an optional walk through the nearby community.
Your guide will also brief you about the following day's gorilla trek, including what to expect, appropriate clothing, footwear, personal items and the importance of following the instructions of park guides and trackers.
Destination: Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation: Lodge/Camp
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Main Activity: Scenic drive and safari briefing
Day 2: First Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the first major highlight of your 5-Day Double Gorilla Trek Rwanda. After an early breakfast, you will travel to the park headquarters for briefing and preparation for your first mountain gorilla trek.
The trek takes you into the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains in search of an assigned gorilla family. Park trackers and guides will lead the way while sharing information about the forest, gorilla conservation and the ecosystem.
The duration and difficulty of the trek depend on where the gorilla family is located and how far it has moved. The terrain can be steep, muddy and uneven, so good hiking shoes and appropriate clothing are recommended.
Once the gorilla family is located, you will have the opportunity to observe these remarkable animals in their natural environment. Depending on the behavior of the group, you may see adults feeding, young gorillas playing, individuals resting or members of the family interacting with one another.
Gorilla encounters are naturally unpredictable, and the exact experience varies from one trek to another. Your guides and trackers will help you maintain the required distance and follow the park's conservation guidelines throughout the encounter.
After the trek, you will return to the park headquarters and transfer back to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent resting or enjoying the lodge surroundings.
Destination: Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation: Lodge/Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Main Activity: First gorilla trekking experience
Day 3: Second Gorilla Trekking Experience – A Different Forest Encounter
After breakfast, you will prepare for your second gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. Having another trekking day gives you a fresh opportunity to explore the mountain forest and observe another gorilla family or experience the forest from a different perspective.
You will once again report to the park headquarters for the morning briefing before entering the forest with experienced guides and trackers. Although the general trekking procedure remains similar, no two gorilla treks are exactly the same.
The terrain, weather conditions, trekking distance and location of the gorilla family can differ from the previous day. The second trek therefore provides another independent wildlife experience rather than simply repeating the first encounter.
During the trek, take time to appreciate more than the gorillas themselves. The Virunga forest is home to a variety of plant species, birds and other wildlife, while the mountainous environment creates a unique setting for the experience.
When the gorilla family is located, you will spend the permitted viewing time observing their natural behavior. Your guide will help explain the social relationships and behaviors you encounter while ensuring that the group follows the applicable conservation guidelines.
After completing the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. The afternoon can be kept free for rest, or an optional cultural or nature activity can be arranged depending on your interests and available time.
Destination: Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation: Lodge/Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Main Activity: Second gorilla trekking experience
Day 4: Volcanoes Region – Cultural Experience and Scenic Exploration
After two days of gorilla trekking, today provides an opportunity to experience another side of northern Rwanda. Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before participating in a selected cultural or nature-based activity.
Depending on your interests and the final itinerary, the day can include a Rwandan cultural experience, community visit, nature walk or another activity around the Volcanoes region.
A cultural experience can provide insight into local traditions, livelihoods, crafts, music, dance and everyday life in communities surrounding the national park. It also offers a valuable contrast to the previous days spent deep in the forest.
Travelers interested in conservation history may also choose an optional visit connected with the region's mountain gorilla conservation story, subject to availability and the final itinerary.
Alternatively, the day can be kept relaxed at the lodge after the two demanding trekking days. This is particularly suitable for travelers who want time to enjoy the mountain scenery, reflect on their gorilla encounters and prepare for the journey back to Kigali.
Later in the day, you can enjoy a final evening in the Volcanoes region before your departure the following morning.
Destination: Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation: Lodge/Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Main Activities: Cultural experience, nature activity or relaxation
Day 5: Volcanoes National Park – Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, you will check out of your lodge and begin the scenic journey back to Kigali.
The drive provides another opportunity to enjoy Rwanda's famous rolling hills and countryside before reaching the capital. Depending on your departure flight schedule, you may have time for a short Kigali city experience, local shopping or a final meal in the city.
If your flight departs later in the day, the itinerary can be adjusted to allow additional time in Kigali. Your Ababa Uganda Safaris representative will assist with your transfer to Kigali International Airport in time for your onward flight.
Your 5 Days Double Gorilla Trek Rwanda safari ends with unforgettable memories of two separate mountain gorilla trekking experiences, the volcanic landscapes of Volcanoes National Park and the culture and scenery of Rwanda.
Destination: Kigali
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Main Activity: Transfer to Kigali and departure
Trip Includes
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Kigali
- Private transportation in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle
- Services of an experienced English-speaking driver-guide
- 4 nights accommodation in a selected lodge or camp
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner as specified in the itinerary
- Two Rwanda gorilla trekking permits per person
- Park entrance and conservation fees applicable to the scheduled activities
- Two guided gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes National Park
- Services of professional park guides and trackers during gorilla trekking
- Drinking water during safari transfers and activities
- All scheduled activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Kigali–Volcanoes National Park–Kigali transportation
- Government taxes and applicable service charges
Trip Excludes
- International flights and domestic flights unless specifically included
- Rwanda visa and other entry requirements
- Travel and medical insurance
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls and souvenirs
- Tips and gratuities for guides, trackers, lodge staff and other service providers
- Porter fees during gorilla trekking, if required
- Activities not specifically included in the itinerary
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Personal hiking equipment and clothing
- Any additional accommodation before Day 1 or after Day 5
- Expenses resulting from flight delays, cancellations, road closures or other circumstances beyond the operator's control
- Any services not specifically listed under Includes
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What our travelers say
Robert KVerified
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 TravellerHighly 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 nExceptional 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.
vjparGreat 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 SmithMagical 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!
MadhviVerified
.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-marvinSuch 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 OA 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.
HoehlenhonkAnimals 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 PUGANDA 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