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Virunga and Gahinga

7-Day Gorilla Safari: Virunga and Gahinga

Diverse Beauty

From

$15,645 PP

Duration

7 Days

Pickup

Kigali International Airport

Best Time

1 january to 28 February

This 7-day safari takes you on an unforgettable journey through Rwanda and Uganda, offering close encounters with the majestic mountain gorillas and rich cultural experiences. From exploring the vibrant Batwa heritage to trekking in Parc National des Volcans, each day blends wildlife, adventure, and scenic beauty. Enjoy luxury stays at Mount Gahinga Lodge and Virunga Lodge, while immersing yourself in Africa’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant traditions.

 

Highlights

  • Visiting Kigali Genocide Memorial
  • Visiting Batwa Vocational Center
  • Guided birding and community walk

Your adventure begins with your arrival at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. Our professional guide will warmly welcome you and provide assistance throughout your safari. You will be transferred to Kigali Serena Hotel where you will relax and enjoy an overnight stay on a bed and breakfast basis. 

After an early breakfast, you will set off for Mount Gahinga Lodge, located across the border in Uganda. The drive takes approximately four to five hours and offers scenic views of the rolling countryside. Upon arrival, you can unwind and enjoy pre-dinner cocktails on the terrace while taking in the stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes or relax inside by the cozy fire. Overnight will be at Mount Gahinga Lodge with lunch and dinner included. 

On the third day, you will visit the Gahinga Batwa Village for a fascinating cultural experience. Here, you will learn about the Batwa people, one of Africa’s oldest tribes, as you explore their community center and participate in the Batwa Heritage Trail. This visit will provide insight into their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle and use of medicinal plants. You will also enjoy a vibrant performance by the Batwa Dance Group and visit the Batwa Vocational Center. After lunch at the lodge, you will have the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight stay.

Have a leisurely breakfast and check out. Set off for cyanika border. Customs and immigration procedures. Drive back across the border into Rwanda, arriving at the magnificent Virunga Lodge. Perched atop a hill, the lodge offers panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the serene Lakes Bulera and Ruhondo.  Check in and lunch. In the evening, you will enjoy a captivating performance by the Intore Dance Troupe, showcasing Rwanda’s vibrant cultural heritage. Overnight will be at Virunga Lodge with all meals provided. 

After an early breakfast, you will set off for gorilla trekking in Parc National des Volcans. This thrilling adventure takes you hiking through the enchanting bamboo forests on the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes. The trek, which can last between one to three hours, culminates in a magical moment when you find yourself face-to-face with the gentle mountain gorillas. You will spend one unforgettable hour in their company before returning to the lodge in time for a late lunch. Please note that gorilla trekking requires stamina and can sometimes take the entire day, especially when conditions are wet and muddy. Overnight will be at Virunga Lodge with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. 

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Mountain gorillas thriving in their natural habitat in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. A symbol of successful conservation and sustainable tourism efforts.

This day is reserved for optional activities, giving you the freedom to choose your preferred experience. Options include embarking on a second gorilla trek (additional permits required), trekking to see the endangered golden monkeys, or visiting the grave of Dian Fossey and the gorilla cemetery. You may also opt to visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund near Kinigi or take a guided birding and community walk to Lake Bulera for a closer look at village life. After a full day of adventure, you will return to Virunga Lodge for another overnight stay with all meals included. 

Have an early breakfast, you will leave Virunga Lodge and drive back to Kigali, a journey of approximately three hours. Time permitting, you will enjoy a city tour that includes a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This moving site offers a powerful and emotional testimony to Rwanda’s tragic history and its remarkable recovery. Guests are encouraged to pay or donate entrance fees directly. After the city tour, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. This concludes your unforgettable 7-day safari through the breathtaking landscapes of Rwanda and Uganda, highlighted by close encounters with the majestic mountain gorillas.

What's Included

  • Meet and greet assistance.
  • Airport and inter resort transfers from start to end of tour
  • Accommodation at Kigali Serena Hotel, Mount Gahinga Lodge, and Virunga Lodge
  • All meals are provided as specified in the itinerary
  • gorilla trekking permits where mentioned
  • Cultural experiences such as the Batwa Village visit, and optional activities are also included unless otherwise stated.
  • Emergency Medical evacuation cover
  • Our assistance from start to end of tour

What's Excluded

  • international flights,
  • visas, or border crossing fees.
  • Permits for additional gorilla treks (US$ 1500)
  • or activities are not included and must be purchased separately.
  • Personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages,
  • tips for guides and porters, trekking gear,

Please use the form below for bookings or questions

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