2 Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda

2 Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda at Volcanoes National Park

The 2 Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda tour is one of the most rewarding short safaris in East Africa, offering travelers enough time to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Rwanda and the rare opportunity to track mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. This itinerary is perfect for those who want a slightly more relaxed pace than the 1-day option, with overnight accommodation near the park to minimize travel fatigue and maximize the gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda.

This itinerary begins and ends in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, making it ideal for travelers flying into the country or combining it with other regional adventures.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your 2-day gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda begins with a pick-up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport, preferably in the morning or early afternoon. You will meet your professional driver-guide who will brief you about the upcoming gorilla trekking adventure.

City Tour Optional

Before leaving Kigali, you may take a brief Kigali city tour if time allows. Highlights include:

  • Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre – for a deep understanding of Rwanda’s recent history.

  • Local markets or artisan centers showcasing Rwandan crafts and culture.

Scenic Drive to Volcanoes National Park

Depart Kigali and drive north towards Musanze, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, passing through terraced hills, coffee plantations, and traditional villages. This region is part of Rwanda’s famed “Land of a Thousand Hills”, offering stunning vistas of the Virunga volcano range.

Upon arrival, check in at your chosen lodge or hotel near Volcanoes National Park. Spend the evening relaxing, enjoying lodge amenities, or taking a guided walk in the surrounding communities.

Overnight Stay Near Volcanoes National Park

  • Budget: La Locanda, Kinigi Guest House, Muhabura Hotel

  • Mid-range: Le Bambou Lodge, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

  • Luxury: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

Enjoy dinner at the lodge and prepare for an early start the next day for your gorilla trek in Rwanda.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park – Return to Kigali

Wake up early for breakfast and transfer to Kinigi Park Headquarters by 6:30 am for registration and briefing.

Pre-Trek Briefing and Group Assignment

Park rangers from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) will conduct a short but thorough briefing. They will discuss the rules for gorilla trekking, gorilla group allocations, safety precautions, and what to expect during the hike. Trekkers are assigned to different habituated gorilla families based on fitness level and preference.

Each group is limited to 8 participants, and trekking time varies depending on the gorilla family assigned. Some of the famous gorilla families include:

  • Sabyinyo – known for the massive silverback “Guhonda”

  • Amahoro – peaceful group with moderate hike difficulty

  • Karisimbi – higher elevation and strenuous hike

  • Hirwa – previously migrated from Uganda, now in Rwanda

The Gorilla Trekking Experience

After the briefing, your adventure begins. With armed rangers and expert trackers leading the way, you’ll hike into the dense rainforests of Volcanoes National Park in search of your assigned gorilla family.

The trek can take 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. The terrain is mountainous, muddy, and sometimes steep—but the rewards are incredible.

Upon locating the mountain gorillas, you’ll be allowed 1 hour to observe them. Watch as they eat, groom, play, and interact under the canopy of the misty forest. Witnessing a silverback gorilla up-close or seeing a playful infant cling to its mother is a moment of pure magic.

Photography is allowed (no flash), and a respectful distance of at least 7 meters must be maintained.

Descent, Certificate Ceremony, and Return to Kigali

After this life-changing encounter, you’ll descend back to the base station where you’ll be awarded a gorilla trekking certificate in recognition of your participation in conservation efforts.

Have lunch at a nearby restaurant or at your lodge before beginning your return journey to Kigali, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.

Your driver will drop you off at your hotel or at the airport for your outbound flight, marking the end of your 2 Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda safari.

What’s Included in the 2 Day Gorilla Trekking Safari

  • Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle with fuel

  • English-speaking professional driver/guide

  • One Rwanda gorilla permit per person ($1,500)

  • Accommodation for one night (budget, mid-range, or luxury options)

  • All meals as per the itinerary

  • Bottled drinking water

  • Park entry fees and guiding services

  • Government taxes and levies

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

  • Waterproof hiking boots

  • Rain jacket and layered clothing

  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers

  • Insect repellent

  • Gloves for forest trekking

  • Sunscreen and sunglasses

  • Camera (non-flash)

  • Backpack with snacks and water

  • Gaiters (to protect from mud and stinging nettles)

Tips for a Successful 2-Day Gorilla Trekking Experience

  • Book early: Rwanda gorilla permits are limited and in high demand.

  • Train in advance: Moderate physical fitness is essential due to the terrain.

  • Dress appropriately: Neutral colors and full-coverage clothing are best.

  • Respect the gorillas: Always follow ranger instructions and keep a safe distance.

  • Prepare for weather: The weather is unpredictable—carry rain gear even in dry season.

  • Support local tourism: Buy crafts or visit nearby villages for an enriched experience.

Why Choose Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking?

Rwanda is home to one-third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and its Volcanoes National Park is a premier destination for safe, regulated, and sustainable gorilla tourism. With shorter travel times from the capital, professional guiding services, well-maintained trails, and high conservation standards, Rwanda offers one of the most efficient and rewarding gorilla trekking experiences in Africa.

The 2 Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda itinerary is the perfect balance of convenience and adventure. It offers travelers the chance to experience one of the world’s most awe-inspiring wildlife encounters without sacrificing comfort or time. From Kigali to the lush trails of Volcanoes National Park, this short tour delivers unforgettable memories of Rwanda’s majestic mountain gorillas and beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re a photographer, nature lover, or a first-time safari-goer, this tour guarantees an experience you’ll cherish forever.