Primate Holidays

4 Days Rwanda Golden Monkeys & Mt Karisimbi Hike

Home to endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys on this unforgettable four-day safari. Combining Golden Monkey Trekking, a challenging Mt Karisimbi ascent, and cultural experiences in Kigali, this journey promises rewarding vistas, unique wildlife encounters, and genuine Rwandan hospitality.

Highlights at a Glance
  • Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

  • Summit Mt Karisimbi (4,507 m) through lush montane forest

  • Kigali City Tour: Genocide Memorial Museum + Kimironko Market

  • Iby’wacu Cultural Village immersion

  • Comfortable lodge and camp accommodations

  • Expert English-speaking guide & 4×4 safari vehicle

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Kigali City Tour

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport (or your city hotel), your guide warmly welcomes you and provides a safari briefing. Afterwards, explore Kigali:

  • Kigali Genocide Memorial Museum, learning about Rwanda’s history

  • Kimironko Market, for crafts, organic produce & local textiles

  • Traditional Cuisine at a top Kigali restaurant

Finally, transfer to Volcanoes National Park, check in to your lodge, and enjoy dinner under the stars.

 
Day 2: Golden Monkey Trekking & Cultural Village

After an early breakfast, head into Volcanoes NP headquarters to meet your trekking team. During your Golden Monkey adventure, you’ll:

  • Track habituated troops through bamboo forests

  • Observe primate behavior up close (1-hour viewing)

  • Photograph vibrant birds and forest butterflies

In the afternoon, immerse yourself at Iby’wacu Cultural Village, where you will:

  • Enjoy community walks and banana-beer making

  • Try subsistence farming and prepare traditional dishes

Return to your lodge for dinner and a restful night.

 
Day 3: Mt Karisimbi Hike

Fuel up with breakfast, then embark on the Mt Karisimbi ascent. Along the Virunga range you will:

  • Trek through thick montane forest inhabited by sunbirds, turacos, and francolins

  • Visit Karisoke Research Centre, Dian Fossey’s legacy site

  • Encounter wild gorillas (e.g., the Susa family) and golden monkeys

  • Camp at the summit, rewarded by panoramic sunrise views

Day 4: Descent & Departure

Following breakfast overlooking the peaks, descend to Kigali. En route, savor a farewell lunch at one of the city’s finest restaurants. Finally, we’ll drop you at Kigali International Airport or your preferred city location, concluding your safari.

What’s Included
  • All listed activities & park fees

  • Accommodation: lodge (2 nights) + summit camp (1 night)

  • 4×4 safari vehicle with fuel

  • Airport transfers in Kigali

  • Professional English-speaking driver/guide

  • Bottled water throughout


What’s Excluded
  • International & domestic flights

  • Visa fees & travel insurance

  • Tips & gratuities

  • Personal expenses (laundry, calls, souvenirs)

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