Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to the Volcanoes Region
Your intensive 2-Day Gorilla Tour Rwanda begins with your arrival at Kigali International Airport (KGL), or we will pick you up from your hotel in the city if you arrive earlier. After a brief meet-and-greet with your professional driver-guide, you will embark on the approximately 2.5 to 3-hour drive northwest towards the town of Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. This journey is far from a mere transfer; it is your introduction to the country's iconic beauty. You will wind through rolling hills meticulously terraced by farmers, pass through bustling local markets, and catch ever-improving glimpses of the majestic Virunga volcanoes looming on the horizon.
Upon arrival in Musanze, you will check into your chosen lodge. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure to acclimatize to the higher altitude. This is a crucial time to prepare for the next day’s trek: ensure your hiking boots are broken in, your rain gear is packed, and your camera batteries are fully charged. Many lodges offer stunning views of the mountains, providing a perfect, serene setting to mentally prepare for the incredible experience ahead. You will enjoy dinner at the lodge, often with a crackling fireplace to ward off the mountain chill, as your guide will brief you on the next morning’s procedures and what to expect from your encounter.
Day 2: The Pinnacle Experience – Gorilla Trekking and Return to Kigali
You will wake up early, energized by anticipation. After a hearty breakfast and a packed lunch from the lodge, you will drive a short distance to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. Here, the atmosphere is one of excited reverence. By 7:00 AM, you will join fellow trekkers for a registration process and a captivating traditional Intore dance performance. A crucial briefing from the park rangers follows, where they will assign you to a specific gorilla family based on your fitness level and preferences. The rules for a safe and respectful encounter are clearly explained.
The trek itself is an adventure, its difficulty varying wildly depending on your assigned group. You could be hiking for as little as 30 minutes or as long as 4 hours through thick, muddy jungle and steep slopes, all at an altitude of around 2,500m. Your rangers and trackers will lead the way, using machetes to clear paths. The moment you hear the first grunt or see movement in the bamboo, your fatigue will vanish. Then, you are there. You have one precious hour to observe these gentle giants—the silverback’s immense power, the mothers nurturing their young, the juveniles tumbling playfully. It is a humbling and emotional experience that feels far too short. After the trek, you receive a certificate, return to the lodge for a quick shower and change, and then begin your journey back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a profoundly moving and essential stop for understanding modern Rwanda. You will then be dropped off at the airport for your departure, concluding your unforgettable 2-Day Gorilla Tour in Rwanda.
