4 Days Gorilla Tracking and Golden Monkey Experience

Overview

This 4-day journey offers an immersive wildlife and cultural adventure, combining iconic primate encounters with scenic exploration across Rwanda and Uganda. Begin your trip in Kigali with a visit to the powerful Kigali Genocide Memorial, followed by a scenic transfer to Uganda through the Cyanika border. In Mgahinga National Park, track the rare and lively golden monkeys before traveling to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you’ll experience a life-changing gorilla tracking trek in their natural habitat. Finally, unwind at the serene Lake Bunyonyi, exploring its islands by canoe or boat, before returning to Kigali. Each day is filled with unique experiences that highlight East Africa’s beauty, resilience, and commitment to conservation.

Travel Plan

• 01

  Day 1: Arrival and Transfer from Kigali to Uganda (Cyanika Border)

  Your adventure begins in the bustling city of Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. After meeting your guide, set off to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This powerful site offers a glimpse into Rwanda’s history, allowing you to learn about the country’s past and its journey of recovery and resilience.
  Following your visit, you’ll depart for the Cyanika border, where Rwanda and Uganda meet. The scenic drive through Rwanda’s green hills offers stunning vistas, and as you cross into Uganda, the landscape shifts subtly, welcoming you to the Pearl of Africa. Upon arrival in Uganda, you’ll be escorted to Ikaze Lodge for check-in. The lodge offers a warm and comfortable environment, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel and exploration. Enjoy a delicious dinner and prepare for the following day’s adventure in the forests of Mgahinga.

  Accommodation: Ikaze Lodge

• 02

  Day 2 : Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga National Park

  Wake up to the crisp mountain air and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the lodge before setting off for Mgahinga National Park, home to some of the world’s only golden monkey populations. Nestled within the Virunga Mountains, this park is known for its dense bamboo forests, which create an ideal habitat for these rare and playful primates.
  Upon arrival at the park, you’ll attend a briefing led by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority guides. They’ll share insights into the lives of the golden monkeys, their conservation, and tracking etiquette. With this knowledge in mind, set off into the lush bamboo forests, where you’ll spend approximately 2 to 4 hours in pursuit of these lively creatures. Watching them dart and leap between trees, socializing with each other, is a mesmerizing experience that offers unique photo opportunities and unforgettable moments.
  After tracking, return to the lodge for a short rest and lunch. In the afternoon, begin your scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The road to Bwindi is lined with breathtaking views of mist-shrouded mountains, rolling hills, and verdant valleys, creating a memorable journey. Arrive in the evening at Rushaga Gorilla Camp, your accommodation for the night, where you can relax, enjoy a warm meal, and prepare for tomorrow’s highly anticipated gorilla tracking experience.

  Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Camp

• 03

  Day 3: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

  Today is the highlight of your trip: tracking the iconic mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity. Begin the day with a filling breakfast, then take a short, 5-minute drive to the starting point of your gorilla tracking trek.
  At the park headquarters, meet your guide and ranger for an orientation, where you’ll learn about the gorillas, safety tips, and tracking etiquette. Then, venture into the dense and mysterious Bwindi forest, guided by your ranger. The forest, with its ancient trees, thick vegetation, and diverse flora and fauna, is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Depending on the gorillas’ location, the trek may take a few hours, navigating through lush vegetation and occasionally steep terrain.
  Once you locate a gorilla family, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour observing them from a close distance. Witness their gentle interactions, from mothers cradling infants to playful young gorillas and the powerful silverbacks overseeing the group. This experience allows you to connect with these magnificent creatures in their natural environment, creating memories and photos that will last a lifetime.
  After your trek, return to Rushaga Gorilla Camp to freshen up. Then, take a scenic 2-hour drive to Lake Bunyonyi, a picturesque crater lake known for its beauty and tranquility. Arrive at Lake Bunyonyi Eco Lodge for a peaceful evening by the lake, where you can relax and reflect on your gorilla encounter while enjoying a delicious meal and serene views.

  Accommodation:Lake Bunyonyi Eco Lodge

• 04

  Day 4: Lake Bunyonyi Activities and Departure

  On your final day, wake up to the peaceful sounds of Lake Bunyonyi and enjoy a leisurely breakfast with views of the lake’s glassy waters, surrounded by terraced hills. Known as the “Switzerland of Africa” for its stunning scenery, Lake Bunyonyi is dotted with 29 islands and is home to an abundance of bird species, making it an ideal spot for relaxing and exploring.
  After breakfast, choose between a canoe trek or a motorized boat ride around the lake.
  Canoe Trek: For a traditional experience, glide along the lake in a dugout canoe, a style used by locals for centuries. Paddle at your own pace as you explore the lake’s islands, where you’ll hear local legends and maybe even spot some rare birds along the shore.
  Boat Ride: If you prefer a faster-paced exploration, a motorized boat ride will take you to some of the lake’s key spots. Enjoy sweeping views of the terraced hills, and visit some of the islands, learning about their unique histories and folklore.
  After your lake excursion, begin the journey back to Kigali, crossing the Katuna border to re-enter Rwanda. Your guide will drop you off at the Kigali airport for your flight or take you to your accommodation in Kigali if you plan to extend your stay.
  End of Tour