Gorilla and Golden Monkey Discovery
This five-day tour of Rwanda takes you from the capital of Kigali to the lush Volcanoes National Park, staying in luxury, hand-picked hotels in every destination. The highlight of this tour is an exceptional Mountain Gorilla encounter – you will meet these mighty but gravely endangered creatures alongside your specialist guide on an intrepid and intimate trek through the east African rainforest. You’ll also get to see the rare and charismatic Golden Monkey, and enjoy other adventure excursions such as Dian Fossey’s Hike and a visit to the beautiful twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
Trip highlights
- Enjoy a privately guided city tour in Kigali
- Explore Volcanoes National Park with expert guides and trackers
- See rare and endangered Mountain Gorillas
- Learn about the history of Dian Fossey
- Visit the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo
- Stay in luxury accommodation in the foothills of Rwanda’s mountains
Bespoke safaris with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke safaris include:
- Exclusive luxury camps, lodges and hotels
- Curated and private experiences
- Skilled guides and local wildlife experts
- Decades of experience from our team of experts
- Full support from your concierge based in Africa
- Gorilla and Golden Monkey permits
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Days 1–2
Overnight in cultural Kigali
On arrival at Kigali airport your guide and driver will be waiting for you. Your guide can help you through the airport, take you to your vehicle and you’ll then be privately transferred into the city. Enjoy a comfortable night in Kigali, Rwanda’s friendly capital city, where you’ll have our curated list of recommended restaurants and attractions to make the most of your time here.
Accommodation in Kigali
Kigali private city tour
You will be met by your private guide to explore the city of Kigali, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a sobering place of remembrance.
Days 2–5
Four days exploring Volcanoes National Park
Spend your days here in the magnificent Volcanoes National Park tracking rare and endangered Mountain Gorillas and Golden Monkeys, with expert guides and trackers. Other activities to enjoy whilst in this magical terrain are; trekking to volcano craters, cultural tours and the Dian Fossey Hike. Speak to your travel designer about how you wish to spend your time here.
Accommodation in Volcanoes National Park
Make it mine
Tracking Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park
Today, with the help of expert trackers and guides you will hike to find a family of endangered mountain gorillas. The guides will use their knowledge of the gorillas’ habits and information from the previous day to locate each family’s whereabouts.The time taken to track the gorillas varies enormously, from half an hour to as much as 9 hours. The terrain can be extremely difficult, with steep slopes, and dense vegetation. In addition, the altitude means participants do need to be physically fit in order to enjoy the hike. Once the gorillas are located, your group will be allowed a maximum of one hour with them.
Golden Monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park
The endangered Golden monkey enjoys a territory of highland forests, especially bamboo, living in groups of up to thirty individuals. A handful of troops in Volcanoes National Park have been habituated and can be tracked in a similar way to the gorillas. The monkeys are playful and inquisitive and often spend their time leaping from bamboo branches or frolicking on the forest floor towards the base of the volcanoes and have overcome their initial shyness to accept their daily visit by researchers and tourists.
Visit the 'Twin Lakes' of Burera and Ruhondo
Between Musanze and the Ugandan border are two scenic lakes usually referred to as the twin lakes; Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. They are fed by rivers and a lake in Uganda. The twin lakes area is very scenic, with steep and intensively farmed hills surrounding the pristine dark blue waters. They offer magnificent views over the whole of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
The drivers, guides and staff were truly amazing! They attended to your every need. The country and wildlife is also incredible!
