See a Family of Gorillas on a Private African Safari
Set off on the adventure of a lifetime into Rwanda, an incredible country that boasts stunning landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and inspiring conservation efforts. This private 2-day gorilla safari in Africa is a mix of meaningful cultural experiences and the most extraordinary wildlife encounters. The highlight of this tour includes trekking to see endangered mountain gorillas up close at Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, you’ll discover Kigali City and its beautiful culture, reflect on Rwanda’s powerful history at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn more about the conservation work helping protect the gorillas.
This African safari is planned and led by local guides, making it perfect for travelers who want an authentic and personalized adventure where they can explore and see a gorilla family in their natural habitat—an experience that will last a lifetime.
Why You’ll Love This Safari
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Trip Details
Trip Details
Price
From $1812 per person
Meeting point
Kigali
Availability
Year-round, 7 days a week
Duration
2 days
Group size
Min. 1 person
Included
- Park fees (for non-residents)
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodations (unless listed as upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for optimal wildlife viewing and photography
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Gorilla permits (one per person, non-resident)
Not included
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodations before and at the end of the tour
- Tips
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
What to bring
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm jacket (early mornings can be cold)
- Neutral-colored clothing (avoid Bright colors)
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Long trousers
- Good hiking shoes
- Hat
- Gloves
- Light backpack
- Sunscreen
- Snacks
- Light face mask
Participation requirements
Min. age of 15 years old required to participate in this tour
About your guide
Your safari will be led by an experienced local guide who will share facts about the wildlife, landscapes, and culture. Your guide is dedicated to ensuring your safari is safe, informative, and tailored to your interests.
What You’ll See & Do
Day 1: Kigali City Tour, Genocide Memorial, and Gorilla Conservation
After breakfast, you’ll start the day with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a tribute that offers meaningful insight into Rwanda’s history and path toward healing. You’ll then enjoy a guided tour of Kigali, learning about the city’s culture and neighborhoods.
After lunch, your driver will take you north to Musanze on a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive. Upon arrival, you will visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, where you will enjoy interactive exhibits and learn more about mountain gorilla conservation and the ongoing efforts to protect one of the world’s most endangered species.
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, transfer to the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park for a pre-trek briefing at 7:30 AM. After meeting your experienced guide, you will then be assigned a gorilla family and begin your trek through the dense forest of the Virunga Mountains.
The hike may take between two and five hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. As you hike through the rainforest, keep an eye out for other incredible wildlife and stunning scenery. Once you reach your family, the reward is a magical hour observing their behaviour up close—a rare and moving wildlife encounter that few people ever experience.
After your trek, return to the lodge for a well-earned lunch before beginning your drive back to Kigali, arriving in the late afternoon.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, your tour includes one gorilla trekking permit per person for Volcanoes National Park.
A habituated gorilla family is a group of mountain gorillas that has slowly become accustomed to the presence of humans through a careful, long process led by researchers and park staff. This allows visitors to observe the gorillas from a safe, respectful distance without causing stress or disrupting their natural behaviors. Only habituated gorilla families are visited during guided treks.
You should expect a moderate to challenging hike through mountainous terrain. Trek durations vary depending on the location of your assigned gorilla family and can range from two to five hours. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
Once your group reaches the gorillas, you’ll spend up to one hour observing them from a safe distance established by park regulations.
You must be at least 15 years old to join a gorilla trek.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, long pants, and long sleeves to protect against vegetation and bugs. A waterproof jacket is recommended, as weather conditions can change quickly.
Absolutely. We specialize in private safaris and can tailor your itinerary with additional destinations, accommodations, or activities.
