An intimate three-day escape into the heart of the Virunga Mountains, crafted for travellers who appreciate the finer touches. This refined gorilla safari begins and ends in Kigali and delivers one of Africa’s most extraordinary privileges - a private hour in the company of Rwanda’s endangered mountain gorillas - wrapped in the comfort and quiet sophistication of the country’s most exclusive lodges.
Set within Volcanoes National Park, home to more than 400 mountain gorillas, this curated journey pairs the raw majesty of the rainforest with elegant accommodation, seamless private transfers and the personal attention that defines an Insight Safari Holidays experience.
Day 1 - Arrival in Rwanda & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon your arrival in Kigali, your private driver-guide will welcome you and brief you on the days ahead before a comfortable transfer north to Volcanoes National Park, some 80km (roughly two hours) from the capital. Should you arrive early, a leisurely city tour awaits, taking in the National Museum or the deeply moving Kigali Genocide Memorial, followed by an unhurried lunch before continuing to the park.
As the landscape rises into terraced hills and volcanic peaks, you will arrive at your sanctuary for the evening - a setting of understated luxury at the foot of the Virungas.
Where you will stay - Volcanoes National Park
Day 2 - Gorilla Trekking & an Afternoon of Discovery
After a refined breakfast, your guide accompanies you to the park headquarters for the morning briefing before you set out on the safari’s defining experience. Guided by expert trackers, you will venture into the misted bamboo forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek may take anywhere from one to several hours and rewards a measure of fitness with an utterly transformative encounter.
You are granted a treasured hour in their presence - watching these gentle giants feed, play and tenderly guard one another. Along the way you may also glimpse golden monkeys, buffalo and a wealth of birdlife. Afterward, return to your lodge for a relaxed lunch, then choose between a scenic visit to the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, an immersive community walk with traditional dance, or simply savouring the serenity of your lodge.
Where you will stay - Volcanoes National Park - options as above
Day 3 - Departure
Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast before checking out. Your guide will transfer you back to Kigali, where there is time for boutique shopping and locally crafted souvenirs. Schedule permitting, you may also visit the pottery cooperative or the Franco-Rwandan cultural centre before lunch and your onward transfer to the airport.
This marks the close of your three-day luxury gorilla safari with Insight Safari Holidays - a brief but unforgettable immersion in one of the world’s last great wildernesses.
Tour Inclusions
- Photography and touring throughout
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Gorilla trekking permits
- Luxury accommodation on a full-board basis
- Bottled drinking water
- Private transportation
- All activities noted in the itinerary
Tour Exclusions
- Laundry services
- Visas
- Kigali hotel charges
- Gratuities
- International flights
- Beverages and drinks
- Any additional activities
Good to Know
Gorilla permits are limited and in high demand, so early booking is strongly advised to secure your preferred dates and lodges.
