3 Day Rwanda Gorilla Tour and Dian Fossey Tomb Hike
Embark on this 3 Day Rwanda Gorilla Tour and Dian Fossey Tomb Hike, which takes you deep into the heart of the Volcanoes National Park to see the endangered mountain gorillas and visit the tomb of the renowned primatologist, Dian Fossey. This adventure not only offers incredible wildlife encounters but also delves into the important conservation work that Fossey dedicated her life to.
About Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s most visited national park, home to the second-largest population of mountain gorillas in the world. Dian Fossey established her base here to study and protect these magnificent creatures from poaching and trafficking. The park is now home to 10 habituated gorilla groups that tourists can visit throughout the year.
Fossey’s groundbreaking work included methods for gaining the trust of gorilla families, notably by mimicking their sounds. Tragically, her dedication to conservation made her many enemies, leading to her brutal murder in 1985. This tour not only honors her legacy but allows you to witness the remarkable mountain gorillas she fought so hard to protect.
Highlights
- Trekking to see endangered mountain gorillas
- Visiting the tomb of Dian Fossey and learning about her legacy
- Engaging cultural experiences at the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
- Scenic exploration of Kigali and Volcanoes National Park
3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tour Itinerary in Brief
- Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
- Day 2: Gorilla Trekking – Visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
- Day 3: Visit Dian Fossey Tomb and the former Karisoke Research Centre – Departure to Kigali
Detailed 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tour
Day 1: Arrival and Pickup from Kigali – City Tour – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel or the airport in Kigali by your driver/guide. After a briefing about your tour, you’ll embark on a half-day city tour of Kigali, visiting:
- Genocide Memorial Site: A solemn tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide.
- Former Presidential Palace: A museum reflecting Rwanda’s political history.
- Local Markets and Souvenir Shops: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.
After lunch at a local eatery or hotel, your guide will take you on a 2-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park, where you should arrive by 4 PM for check-in and refreshments at your lodge. If time allows, consider a visit to Lake Ruhondo and Burera or a stroll through Musanze town before dinner.
Dinner and overnight accommodation options:
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
- Hotel La Palme (Mid-range)
- Muhabura Guest House (Budget)
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking – Visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
Start your day early with breakfast and prepare for an exciting day of gorilla trekking. After a light snack, you’ll head to the park offices for a briefing. During this session, park officials will share vital information about mountain gorillas and trekking etiquette.
After the briefing, you’ll be assigned to a gorilla family based on your fitness level and personal preference. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the group’s location. Expect to hike through thick bamboo forests, rugged terrain, and stunning valleys.
Once you locate the gorillas, you will have one hour to observe them, watching as they interact and feed. Follow the ranger’s instructions closely, maintaining a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the animals.
After your thrilling encounter, return to the starting point where your driver will be waiting. Enjoy lunch and rest at your lodge. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Gorilla Guardian Village (formerly Iby’iwacu Cultural Village), where you can experience the culture of the local communities, shop for souvenirs, and learn about traditional medicine practices.
Dinner and overnight accommodation options:
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
- Hotel La Palme (Mid-range)
- Muhabura Guest House (Budget)
Day 3: Visit Dian Fossey Tomb and the Former Karisoke Research Centre – Departure to Kigali
After breakfast, prepare for another memorable day as you head to the park offices for a briefing before embarking on a hike to the Dian Fossey Tomb. You’ll follow the paths she traversed during her research, guided by park rangers who will share her story, work, and legacy.
Along the way, you may meet some porters who worked with Fossey, providing personal insights into her life and dedication to gorilla conservation. Visit her grave, located near Digit, her favorite gorilla, and explore the remnants of the former Karisoke Research Centre, now in a state of decay but still a significant landmark in gorilla conservation history.
After completing the hike, return to your lodge for check-out and begin your journey back to Kigali. Your guide will ensure you arrive safely at your hotel or the airport, concluding your unforgettable adventure in Rwanda.
This itinerary encapsulates the essence of the 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Tour and Dian Fossey Tomb Hike, combining thrilling wildlife encounters with rich cultural experiences. If you have any modifications or additional requests, just let us know!
How To Get There?
The trip will start from Kigali International Airport to Volcanoes National Park and you will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport.