Get up close and personal with Gorillas on the slopes of a volcano on the Gorilla Safari
Rwanda has been called “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Deep in the heart of Africa, this small and impressively mountainous country lies between the ecosystems of the Congo Basin and the Great Rift Valley, sharing the natural riches of both – resulting in exquisite beauty. The mountain gorillas are the main attraction in Rwanda and the opportunities to photograph them are endless. Their social behaviour – to continue their day to day activities as if no one were there – provide some of the most interesting and rare experiences one could enjoy on safari. Golden monkeys are another highlight of the Gorilla Safari – and they are also fully habituated to the human presence; get up close and personal to enjoy and capture their antics on camera. You will be extremely comfortable in your luxury eco-lodge nestled within the Virunga Volcanoes, which offers breathtaking views of the mighty volcano chain as well as the countryside. Contact our safari specialists to help you plan your dream safari!
Here is a little teaser: The Gorilla Safari Video
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Gallery
Photos from previous safaris. Click to view at full-size.
Suggested itinerary for The Gorilla Safari in Rwanda
Day 1
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your local expert guide who will provide a private vehicle transfer to the lodge in the Virunga mountains. (approx. 2 hours)
You will spend four nights at this luxurious eco-lodge perfectly situated in the mighty Virungas, the chain of 15,000 ft. volcanoes stretching through Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Days 2-3
The second and third days of this safari will take us on foot through the light mountain forests to see the magnificent mountain gorilla in the Parc National des Volcans. This is one of the most dramatic, thrilling and poignant wildlife experiences possible. Once we reach the gorillas, we can spend time observing them in their natural habit as well as photograph them. The length of this hike depends on the family of gorillas we are looking for and can vary anywhere from 3-8 hours as some gorilla families can be elusive.
Gorilla trekking on this safari takes precedence. However, if we return from our travels in time for a late lunch, we usually have another opportunity to head out into the nearby surrounds and take in some of the sights.
*Note: Trekking on this safari can be strenuous, a decent level of fitness is required.
Day 4
On your third morning in Rwanda, you will again get an early start, but this time head to a different volcano in search of the always exciting golden monkeys. These monkeys live in family groups of ups to 120 individuals, making your time with them very entertaining. Like the gorillas, the golden monkeys are habituated to humans, so the viewing is easy, and the photography is amazing.
This trek usually finishes before lunch, giving you another opportunity to head to one of the nearby sights, or relax with a massage in the camp. There are a lot of very interesting bird species around the camp as well, so a gentle walk around the property is always a good idea.
At the end of the day, enjoy drinks and dinner in the luxuriously appointed dining room, chatting away the hours in front of a warm fire.
Day 5
After a well-deserved sleep in and breakfast, get ready to make your way back to Kigali in time for your onward flight.
Highlights from The Gorilla Safari in Rwanda
Best time to go:
This safari can be enjoyed year-round
Duration:
4 nights/5 days
Accommodation:
Luxury eco-lodge in the Virunga mountains
Start/End point:
Kigali International Airport
Wildlife highlights:
Mountain Gorilla, Golden Monkey
Package includes:
Accommodation and full board
Drinks (except premium brands)
All internal flights and transfers
Laundry
2 Gorilla trekking permits
1 Golden Monkey trekking permit
Park fees
A La Carte:
International flights
Premium brand drinks
Laundry
Phone calls
Gratuities
Personal items
Cultural visits
FiveZero Tip:
If you would like to get that perfect shot, why not ask our professional photographer to guide you on this safari, and show you how! Make it a Photographic Safari!