Dive deep into the primate wonders of Rwanda with our 2-Day Gorilla & Golden Monkey Safari. This intensive itinerary is designed for those with limited time who refuse to compromise on experience, focusing on the world-renowned Volcanoes National Park. You will embark on two of East Africa’s most iconic wildlife encounters: tracking the majestic mountain gorillas and observing the playful, vibrant golden monkeys. This safari offers a life-changing opportunity to come face-to-face with two endangered primate species, all while based in the stunning Musanze region.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Trip Overview

This journey is enriched with a visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, offering deep insight into the conservation of these great apes. With Rwanda Gorilla Quest managing all your permits and logistics, this express tour delivers a profound connection to the wildlife and conservation spirit of the Virunga Mountains.

Trip Highlights

Grilla trekking permit for Volcanoes National Park
Expert-guided golden monkey tracking
Visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
One night's accommodation in Musanze
Ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with an expert driver-guide
Transfers from and to Kigali

Day 1 :

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes NP & Ellen DeGeneres Campus Visit

Your adventure begins with an early breakfast before driving to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi. At 7:00 AM, you'll receive a comprehensive briefing from park rangers and be assigned to a trekking group of no more than eight people. You will then embark on the once-in-a-lifetime experience of tracking mountain gorillas. This captivating journey through the dense forest leads you to a habituated gorilla family. The first glimpse of the massive silverback, nurturing mothers, and playful juveniles is awe-inspiring. You will spend one magical hour observing their natural behaviors—an intimate and unforgettable wildlife encounter.

After the trek, you will return to Musanze for lunch. In the afternoon, you will visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. This state-of-the-art facility offers a self-guided tour to learn about five decades of gorilla research and current conservation efforts. Highlights include a 360-degree theater and a replica of Dian Fossey’s original cabin. (Overnight: Virunga Hotel / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge) (Meals: Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2 :

Golden Monkey Tracking & Return to Kigali

Following an early breakfast, you will return to the park headquarters for a 7:15 AM briefing for your golden monkey tracking adventure. These charismatic, endangered primates are endemic to the Virunga Mountains, known for their vibrant golden-orange fur. The trek leads you to the bamboo forests where they live. You will be mesmerized as they leap acrobatically through the canopy, and you'll spend an hour observing their playful social interactions. Their stunning golden coats create a visual spectacle against the lush greenery.

After this incredible morning, you will return to your lodge to check out. Your professional driver-guide will then begin the scenic 2.5-hour journey back to Kigali. You will be transferred to Kigali International Airport (KGL) for your departing flight, filled with memories of your remarkable Rwanda primate safari. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)