Travel company: Dav safaris
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What are best things to do on gorilla safari Rwanda? These include gorilla trekking through Volcanoes National Park to observe mountain gorillas up close, hike to Dian Fossey’s research camp for conservation insights, and visit Iby’Iwacu Village for cultural immersion. Spot golden monkeys on a shorter forest trek, climb Mount Bisoke for volcanic crater views, and unwind at Lake Kivu’s serene shores. End with a Kigali city tour, exploring markets and the Genocide Memorial for a deeper understanding of Rwanda.
Here are the things to do on gorilla safari Rwanda
- Gorillas trekking in Volcanoes National Park
A gorilla safari Rwanda isn’t complete without seeing mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. You’ll hike through forests with a guide, sometimes through muddy trails, before finding a gorilla family. Once there, you get one hour to watch them eat, play, and interact just keep a safe distance. Permits cost $1,500, so book months ahead. Wear sturdy boots and rain gear weather changes fast. This is the main reason people visit Rwanda, and it’s worth every step. Seeing these gorillas up close is something you won’t forget.
- See Playful Golden Monkeys
If you want more wildlife on your gorilla safari Rwanda, try golden monkey trekking. These small, energetic monkeys jump through bamboo forests, making them fun to watch. The trek is shorter and easier than gorilla trekking, taking about 1-2 hours. Permits cost around $100, much cheaper than gorilla permits. It’s a good choice if you want something less demanding or have extra time. The monkeys move quickly, so keep your camera ready. Adding this to your trip gives you another way to experience Rwanda’s wildlife.
- Hike to Dian Fossey’s Research Camp
For those interested in conservation, visiting Dian Fossey’s tomb adds depth to a gorilla safari Rwanda. The hike to her research camp takes 2-3 hours through farmland and forest. You’ll see where she lived and worked to protect gorillas before her death. Guides share stories about her efforts and the challenges gorillas still face. The walk isn’t too hard, but wear good shoes, It’s a quiet, reflective experience compared to the excitement of gorilla trekking. If you’ve read Gorillas in the Mist, this hike will mean even more.
- Climb a Volcano for Stunning Views
Volcanoes National Park has several peaks to climb, adding adventure to your gorilla safari Rwanda. Mount Bisoke is a day hike with a crater lake at the top. The trail is steep in parts but manageable for most fit travelers. For a bigger challenge, Mount Karisimbi takes two days with an overnight camp. Both hikes offer incredible views over Rwanda and the Congo. Guides are required, and you’ll need proper gear. If you enjoy hiking, this is a great way to see more of the park beyond gorillas.
- Experience Rwandan Culture at Iby’Iwacu Village
A gorilla safari Rwanda should include local culture, and Iby’Iwacu Village does this well. Former poachers now work as guides, sharing traditions like drumming, dancing, and storytelling. You can try archery, learn about traditional medicine, or even join a cooking demo. The visit supports community conservation efforts. It’s a relaxed, interactive way to spend a few hours after gorilla trekking. Kids especially enjoy the lively performances. If you want to understand Rwanda’s people, not just its wildlife, don’t skip this.
- Relax by Lake Kivu
After days of hiking, Lake Kivu is the perfect place to unwind on your gorilla safari Rwanda. Towns like Gisenyi and Kibuye have lakeside resorts where you can swim, kayak, or just sit with a drink. Boat trips take you to islands or hot springs. The lake is calm and safe, with no crocodiles or hippos. Try fresh tilapia or sambaza fish from local restaurants. It’s a slow, peaceful way to end your trip. If you need a break between adventures, this is the spot.
- Explore Kigali’s History and Markets
Start or end your gorilla safari Rwanda in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean, lively capital. The Genocide Memorial is a sobering but important visit to understand the country’s past. For something lighter, Kimironko Market sells fabrics, spices, and crafts—practice bargaining for the best prices. Coffee lovers should try local brews at Question Coffee or Inzora Rooftop Café. The city is safe and easy to explore by taxi. Spending a day here adds context to your trip beyond the forests and mountains.
How to get there to gorilla safari Rwanda
Getting to Rwanda for your gorilla safari is straightforward, with most travelers flying into Kigali International Airport (KGL), which has direct flights from major hubs like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Dubai, Brussels, and Istanbul. From Kigali, it's a 2-3 hour drive to Volcanoes National Park - the road is paved and comfortable, with many visitors opting for private transfers (about $100-150 one way) or shared shuttles. Some domestic flights operate to Musanze airstrip near the park, but driving is more common. If you're combining your Rwanda gorilla safari with Uganda or Congo, you can cross by road at Gatuna/Katuna or Gisenyi/Goma borders, though flights between Kigali and Entebbe/Juba are quicker. Most tour operators handle all transfers once you arrive in Rwanda, making logistics simple.
When is the best time to go for gorilla safari Rwanda?
The best time for a gorilla safari Rwanda is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These months offer easier trekking conditions with less rain and mud on Volcanoes National Park's trails. While gorilla trekking operates year-round, the wetter months (March-May and October-November) bring slippery paths and heavier rainfall. However, the lush greenery and fewer tourists can be appealing. Temperatures remain mild (10-25°C) throughout the year—just pack layers for chilly mornings. For the ideal balance of good weather and manageable crowds, late May or early December are smart choices.
Where to sleep on gorilla safari Rwanda
When planning where to sleep on your gorilla safari in Rwanda, you'll find excellent options near Volcanoes National Park. Luxury seekers love Bisate Lodge, with its private villas and volcano views, or One&Only Gorilla's Nest for top-tier service. Mid-range choices like Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel offer comfort at better value, while budget travelers prefer Muhabura Hotel or community-run Kinigi Guesthouse. For a unique stay, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (part-owned by locals) blends luxury with community impact, Most lodges arrange early breakfasts and packed lunches for trekking days. Book early in peak seasons (June-Sept & Dec-Feb), as rooms fill fast with gorilla trekkers. Wherever you stay, you'll be just minutes from the park headquarters for your morning trek.
Booking gorilla safari Rwanda with dav safaris
For a seamless gorilla safari Rwanda experience, book with Dav Safaris a trusted local operator that handles permits, accommodations, and logistics so you don’t have to. We secure gorilla trekking permits (which often sell out months in advance), arrange stays at top lodges near Volcanoes National Park (from luxury to budget-friendly), and provide expert guides for wildlife spotting. Our customizable packages range from 1-day gorilla treks to 5-day tours including golden monkeys, Lake Kivu, and Kigali city visits. Committed to responsible tourism, Dav Safaris supports conservation and local communities while ensuring a hassle-free adventure.
