Best Rwanda Gorilla Safaris – Discover the Gentle Giants of Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is one of the most beautiful and inspiring safari destinations in Africa. This small, lush, and mountainous country offers one of the world’s most powerful wildlife experiences — gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. It’s here, amid mist-covered volcano slopes and dense bamboo forests, that you can meet the last remaining mountain gorillas face-to-face — an encounter that forever changes the way you see the wild.

The Magic of Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is Rwanda’s crown jewel. The experience takes place in Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest near the town of Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri). The park is part of the wider Virunga Massif, a chain of dormant volcanoes that stretch across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo — the only region in the world where mountain gorillas survive.
Trekkers set out early in the morning, guided by expert rangers and trackers who locate the gorilla families before the hike begins. The journey through the forest can take between 1 to 4 hours, depending on the location of your assigned group. Once you find the gorillas, you spend a full hour observing them — watching playful infants, nurturing mothers, and the majestic silverback that leads the family. The silence of the forest, broken only by the rustle of leaves and the gorillas’ gentle sounds, makes the experience deeply emotional and unforgettable.

Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda’s Primate Haven

Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is Rwanda’s oldest national park and a sanctuary for over 12 habituated gorilla families open to visitors. The park’s landscape is dominated by five towering volcanoes — Karisimbi, Bisoke, Sabinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura — covered in lush bamboo and montane forest.
Beyond gorillas, the park also shelters golden monkeys, forest buffaloes, elephants, and a rich birdlife with over 200 species, including the beautiful Ruwenzori turaco.

Top Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Rwanda

1. 2-Day Gorilla Trek Rwanda Safari

Perfect for travelers with limited time, this short but intense itinerary begins in Kigali. After a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, you spend the next morning trekking to see the mountain gorillas before returning to Kigali. Despite its brevity, it offers a complete and transformative experience — ideal for business travelers or weekend adventurers.

2. 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari Adventure

This is the most popular and balanced option. Day one includes arrival and transfer to Musanze, day two is your gorilla trekking day, and day three can be spent visiting cultural or scenic sites such as the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, Twin Lakes (Burera and Ruhondo), or a Kigali city tour before departure.

3. 4-Day Gorillas and Golden Monkey Trekking Safari

This safari blends two rare primate encounters. You’ll trek to see mountain gorillas on one day and golden monkeys on the next — a lively species found only in the Virunga mountains. Optional activities include a hike to Mount Bisoke Crater Lake or exploring local communities.

4. 5-Day Luxury Rwanda Gorilla Safari

A perfect blend of adventure and indulgence, this itinerary includes two gorilla treks for those who want to maximize their chances of intimate encounters. You’ll stay in luxury lodges such as Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, which combine comfort, sustainability, and unmatched mountain views.

5. 7-Day Best of Rwanda Safari (Gorillas, Golden Monkeys & Nyungwe Forest)

For a more comprehensive experience, this itinerary combines Volcanoes National Park with Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to chimpanzees and 13 other primate species. You’ll trek gorillas, track chimps, visit tea plantations, and relax by Lake Kivu — offering a rich mix of Rwanda’s natural and cultural highlights.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is available all year round, but the dry seasons — from June to September and December to February — offer the best conditions. Trails are less muddy, and the weather is clearer. However, the green seasons (March–May and October–November) have fewer tourists, lush vegetation, and great photography light.

Gorilla Trekking Permits

A gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1,500 per person per trek, and it’s essential to book early, especially during peak months. The permit includes park entry, ranger guides, trackers, and a full hour with the gorilla family. Though the permit is pricey, every dollar contributes to conservation and community development, making Rwanda’s gorilla program one of the most successful in Africa.

What to Expect on the Trek

Trekking conditions vary depending on the gorilla family you’re assigned. Some groups are closer to the park boundary, while others require longer hikes up steep slopes. The terrain can be slippery, especially after rain, so sturdy hiking boots, long pants, gardening gloves, and a rain jacket are essential. Porters are available to carry your bag and assist you during steep climbs — hiring one supports the local community and enhances your comfort.

Where to Stay – Top Gorilla Safari Lodges

Rwanda offers a range of accommodation options, from mid-range lodges to world-class eco-luxury retreats.

Bisate Lodge (Luxury): Nestled in an ancient volcanic crater with breathtaking views of Mount Bisoke.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (Luxury): Rwanda’s first community-owned lodge, combining comfort with cultural connection.
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel (Mid-range): A beautiful base with modern amenities near the park headquarters.
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Mid-range): Comfortable cottages with scenic views and traditional hospitality.
Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Budget-friendly): Great value with warm service and proximity to the park entrance.

Other Experiences Around Volcanoes National Park

Golden Monkey Tracking: A lively, fun trek to see endangered golden monkeys.
Dian Fossey Tomb Hike: Pay tribute to the legendary primatologist who devoted her life to gorilla conservation.
Cultural Encounters: Visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to experience Rwandan dance, drumming, and traditions.
Twin Lakes Visit (Burera & Ruhondo): Enjoy canoe rides and serene landscapes near the Virunga ranges.

Responsible Gorilla Tourism

Rwanda’s gorilla conservation model is one of the best in the world. A large portion of permit fees supports park rangers, anti-poaching efforts, and nearby communities through healthcare, schools, and infrastructure. Trekking with gorillas in Rwanda means your visit directly helps protect these endangered primates and the people who share their land.

Experience the Spirit of Rwanda

A gorilla safari in Rwanda is not just a wildlife adventure — it’s a journey into the heart of Africa’s resilience and renewal. The encounter with mountain gorillas is profoundly moving, yet it’s Rwanda’s warmth, beauty, and transformation that truly touch your soul.

Plan your Rwanda Gorilla Safari today and experience the rare harmony between nature and humanity in the Land of a Thousand Hills.