1 Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda

Best 1 Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park)

1 Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda is one of our premier short Rwanda gorilla tours, starting early from Kigali and heading to the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda’s northwest.

This thrilling adventure lets you encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in the shortest time possible—perfect for time-constrained travelers or budget-conscious visitors.

Volcanoes National Park forms part of the vast Virunga Conservation Area, home to around 12 habituated gorilla families. Only 8 visitors per group trek daily, ensuring minimal disturbance.

Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park

Detailed Itinerary: 1 Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda

Start/End Point: Kigali (hotel or airport pickup).

  • 4:30 AM: Professional English-speaking guide picks you up in a comfortable 4WD vehicle for the 2-3 hour scenic drive (116 km) along Rwanda’s “land of a thousand hills”.

  • 7:30-8:00 AM: Arrive at Kinigi Park headquarters for a mandatory briefing by Rwanda Development Board (RDB) officials. Assigned to a gorilla family (e.g., Susa A, Kwitonda).

  • 8:30 AM: Short 20-minute transfer to trailhead. The trek begins—duration varies from 30 minutes to 6-8 hours depending on gorilla location.

  • Gorilla Encounter: Spend 1 magical hour observing behaviors, taking non-flash photos/videos. Spot primates, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife en route.

  • Return: Trek back, enjoy en-route lunch, then drive to Kigali (arrival ~4-6 PM).

Package Includes

  • Valid Gorilla Permit ($1,500 USD – standard rate as of 2026).

  • 4WD transport with experienced driver/guide.

  • Park fees, briefing, and porter (optional, ~$15).

  • En-route lunch and bottled water.

  • Airport/hotel transfers.

  • All relevant taxes.

Package Excludes

  • Accommodation.

  • International flights/visa fees.

  • Tips (~$20-30/person), insurance, personal expenses.

  • Optional activities (e.g., golden monkey tracking).

What to Pack/Wear

  • Long-sleeved shirt, pants, hiking boots, rain jacket/gloves (treks can be muddy).

  • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent.

  • Non-flash camera, binoculars, energy snacks, water bottle.

  • First aid (painkillers), wet wipes, daypack.

About Volcanoes National Park

Covering 160 km², this ancient park (est. 1925) features Virunga volcanoes (Karisimbi, Bisoke, etc.) and diverse wildlife: golden monkeys, elephants, and birds (180+ species). Beyond gorillas: volcano hikes and Dian Fossey tomb visits.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Year-round, but dry seasons (June-September, December-February) offer easier trails, less mud. Wet seasons (March-May, October-November): shorter treks but slippery paths. Book permits 3-6 months ahead, especially peak season.

Contact Us Today.

Updated April 2026: Permit prices stable at $1,500; low-season discounts may apply (Nov-May: $1,050 for non-residents). Always confirm with RDB.