Quick Highlights
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Day 1: Kigali → Volcanoes National Park.
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Day 2: Mountain gorilla trekking (Volcanoes).
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Day 3: Transfer to Bukavu, DR Congo (via Cyangugu).
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Day 4: Lowland gorilla tracking (Kahuzi-Biega).
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Day 5: Dian Fossey memorial trek → return to Kigali.
Why this safari?
First, you’ll meet mountain and lowland gorillas in two different habitats. Next, you’ll hike to Karisoke to visit Dian Fossey’s grave – a moving site for conservation lovers. Finally, this compact route saves time while maximizing wildlife encounters and cultural stops.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer: Kigali → Volcanoes National Park
Your guide meets you at Kigali hotel or airport. Afterwards, choose a brief Kigali city tour; then enjoy lunch and drive through Rwanda’s “land of a thousand hills.” Finally, check in at your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking (Volcanoes)
Early breakfast, then briefing at park HQ. You’ll join a group (max 8) with a ranger and trek 30 minutes–6 hours depending on gorilla movements. Once found, you get one hour with the family to observe and photograph them. Afterwards, return to your lodge for lunch, a relaxed evening walk, dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Transfer to Bukavu, DR Congo (via Cyangugu)
After breakfast, cross at Cyangugu and continue toward Bukavu. En route, stop in Butare for lunch and optional visits (national museum, King’s Palace), plus scenic views of Lake Kivu. In the evening, check in at your DR Congo lodge for dinner and rest.
Day 4: Lowland Gorilla Trekking (Kahuzi-Biega)
Early briefing at the park. Then, enter the forest with a ranger (groups limited, one-hour encounter). Trekking can last 30 minutes to 6 hours; once with the gorillas, observe, photograph and learn from the guide. Later, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 5: Dian Fossey Trek & Return to Kigali
After an early breakfast and briefing at Kinigi, set out for the Dian Fossey hike to Karisoke and her grave. The hike is more challenging and can take up to ~8 hours, however the views and historical significance are unforgettable. Finally, change at Muhabura and drive back to Kigali for drop-off at your hotel or airport.
Important Practical Facts
Gorilla permits: Rwanda mountain gorilla permits are USD 1,500 per person (current official rate). Meanwhile, Congo lowland gorilla permits are commonly quoted around USD 450. Book permits early because availability is limited.
Group size & encounter time: Treks are limited to 8 people per group and 1 hour with the gorillas. Therefore, arrive prepared and healthy.
What’s Included
Airport pick-up and drop-off.
Gorilla permits (listed prices above): Rwanda & Congo.
4×4 safari vehicle + fuel.
Full-time English-speaking driver/guide.
Accommodation and all meals as per itinerary.
Bottled drinking water while on safari.
What’s Not Included
International / regional air tickets.
Visa fees.
Personal expenses (calls, laundry, extra drinks).
Tips for lodge staff, porters or guides.
Quick Booking Tips
First, confirm gorilla permit availability.
Second, pack sturdy boots and light rain gear.
Finally, bring a good camera and a spirit of adventure – this trip blends rare wildlife with real conservation history.