Gorillas & Golden Monkeys

The Experience

Two of Rwanda’s most extraordinary primates. One itinerary that does justice to both. Volcanoes National Park is the only place on earth where you can trek mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in the same journey — and the contrast between the two experiences is part of what makes this itinerary so rewarding. The gorilla encounter is among the most profound wildlife experiences anywhere on the planet. The golden monkey — endemic to the Albertine Rift, fast-moving, brilliantly coloured, found in groups of up to eighty individuals — is faster, more playful, and will leave you equally breathless for entirely different reasons. Four days gives you both, without rushing either.

AT A GLANCE
Duration
4 days / 3 nights
Location
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Permits
Gorilla USD 1,500 + Golden monkey — both included
Fitness
Moderate
Best season
Jun–Sep · Dec–Feb

The Itinerary

Four days tracing the rhythm of the wild.

Kigali → Volcanoes National Park

Private transfer from Kigali to Musanze through Rwanda’s thousand hills. Check in to the lodge. Afternoon at leisure — the Virunga volcanoes visible from the terrace. Dinner and briefing for the days ahead. Early night.

Gorilla Trekking

5:30am departure to park headquarters. Ranger briefing and family assignment. The trek: between 30 minutes and four hours through dense Afromontane rainforest. One hour with a habituated gorilla family — silverbacks, mothers, infants. Photography permitted, no flash. Return by early afternoon. Rest, or optionalDian Fossey tomb visit in the late afternoon.

Golden Monkey Trekking

Morning departure for golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes NP’s bamboo zones. The golden monkey

(Cercopithecus kandti) is endemic to the Albertine Rift. Habituated groups of 30–80 individuals — agile, colourful, and endlessly entertaining. Trek typically 1–2 hours. Back at the lodge by midday. Afternoon free: optional twin lakes walk or Musanze caves.

 

Volcanoes NP → Kigali

Leisurely breakfast. Transfer to Kigali, arriving early afternoon — time for a final lunch or coffee in the city before your onward flight.

Start Your Journey

Ready to experience the raw beauty of the Masai Mara? Our safari experts are here to tailor this classic itinerary to your exact preferences.

Add a Diani Beach Escape
After your safari, continue to Kenya's coast for white sand, warm ocean waters and a few days to slow down and relax.

Create Your Perfect Combi Tour

Our experts can combine safari with Diani Beach or another East African experience— tailored to you.