4 Days Gorilla Tracking and Golden Monkey Experience

Overview

This 4-day adventure combines cultural insights with thrilling wildlife encounters. Start in Kigali with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, gaining an understanding of Rwanda’s history, before heading to Musanze, where you’ll explore the legacy of Dian Fossey at her museum. The next day, enjoy a memorable golden monkey tracking experience in Volcanoes National Park, then cross into Uganda for a stay near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Day three brings the highlight—gorilla tracking in Bwindi, an unforgettable encounter with these gentle giants. Conclude your journey with a scenic drive back to Kigali via the Katuna border, leaving you with rich memories of both Rwanda and Uganda.

Travel Plan

• 01

  Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Musanze with Memorial and Museum Visits

  Transfer from Kigali to Musanze with Memorial and Museum Visits
  Your journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital city, known for its welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Meet your guide for a brief introduction and head to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This significant site provides an opportunity to understand Rwanda’s history, resilience, and the journey of its people. The memorial offers a reflective look into Rwanda’s past and the importance of unity and recovery.

  After the memorial visit, depart for Musanze, a scenic town nestled at the foothills of the Virunga Mountains and the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. En route, marvel at Rwanda’s rolling green hills and the patchwork of terraced farms, providing breathtaking views.

  Upon reaching Musanze, make a stop at the Dian Fossey Museum, a tribute to the legendary primatologist known for her dedication to conserving mountain gorillas. At the museum, you’ll gain insights into Fossey’s life, her groundbreaking research, and her vital role in protecting these magnificent creatures. This experience sets the tone for your upcoming wildlife encounters, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts in the region. In the evening, settle in for a relaxing night at Engagi View Lodge, where you can unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings with views of the volcanic landscapes.
  Accommodation: Engagi View Lodge, near Volcanoes National Park

• 02

  Day 2 : Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park and Transfer to Bwindi

  Start your day early with breakfast at the lodge, then proceed to the Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center for an orientation. Here, you’ll meet your guide and join other adventurers for a briefing on the golden monkey tracking experience. The golden monkeys, known for their lively and playful behavior, are an endangered species found only in the Virunga region. You’ll set off into the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park, where these social primates are known to reside.
  Golden monkey tracking typically takes between 2 to 4 hours, during which you’ll have the chance to observe their acrobatic antics and family interactions. The experience is a joyful immersion in the forest’s natural beauty, with ample opportunities for photography and close observation of these rare creatures.
  Following the golden monkey trek, return to the lodge for lunch before your journey continues. Head toward the Cyanika border crossing between Rwanda and Uganda. Once in Uganda, a scenic drive will bring you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world and home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Arrive in the evening and check in at Bweza Lodge, where you’ll enjoy a cozy overnight stay. The lodge offers stunning views of the forest and a peaceful environment to rest and prepare for the following day’s gorilla tracking adventure.

  Accommodation: Bweza Lodge

• 03

  Day 3: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

  Today is the highlight of your trip—an encounter with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Begin with an early breakfast before taking a short 10-minute drive to the trailhead. At the starting point, meet with your guide and ranger for a comprehensive orientation about the gorilla families and important trekking guidelines. Your guide will share information on the specific gorilla family you’ll track and answer any questions you might have.
  Then, set off on your trek through Bwindi’s dense forest, known for its incredible diversity and dense vegetation. The gorilla tracking experience may take several hours depending on the location of the gorilla family, but the anticipation builds with every step. Finally, when you encounter a gorilla family, you’ll have an hour to observe and interact with these gentle giants. Watching them up close as they feed, play, and interact with each other is a breathtaking experience that brings you face-to-face with one of humanity’s closest relatives.
  After your trek, return to Bweza Lodge to relax and unwind. Spend the afternoon at leisure, going through your photos or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance and panoramic views of Bwindi’s forests. Dinner will be served at the lodge, offering a perfect end to an extraordinary day.

  Accommodation:Bweza Lodge

• 04

  Day 4: Departure to Kigali via Katuna Border

  On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Bweza Lodge, soaking in the morning views of the surrounding forests. After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kigali, crossing at the Katuna border. The drive offers one last opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes of both Uganda and Rwanda, dotted with terraced hills, valleys, and small villages.
  Upon arrival in Kigali, your guide will take you to the airport for your return flight or to your accommodation in the city if you plan to extend your stay. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey filled with wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and scenic beauty.
  End of Tour