1 Day escape to Volcanoes National Park from Kigali
(An encounter with Golden monkeys)
1 Day escape to Volcanoes National Park from Kigali, Are you a budget traveler with urge to Visit volcanoes national park in Rwanda, Besides the pricy gorilla permit, here is a surprisingly budget road trip for you to this popular park to meet another group of endangered primates, golden monkeys. the trip is takes less time but offers an emotional and memorable experience.
The day’s plan
Leaving Kigali: Your day begins with an early pickup at 4:30am at your residence or hotel in Kigali to the northern province of the country to Volcanoes national park. The drive takes 2- 2.5 hours through rolling hills, beautiful small towns and terraced volcanic land scapes.
7:30 – 8:00 am: Arriving at Volcanoes National Park and briefing
Upon arrival in Musanze, proceed to Kinigi park headquarters for a short briefing. the calm and knowledgeable guides and rangers provide awareness about the park jungles and how to carefully associate with the golden monkeys in their natural habitat. It is good to know that participating in this activity is one way of contributing to conservation.
8:30 – 11:00am: Into the bamboo forest.
From the park centre, drive for less than 30 minutes to the starting point at the lower slopes of the Virunga mountains.
The guided trek takes you through a lush vegetation, potato fields to the bamboo forested zones where these golden monkeys dwell. Trekking time is 1-3 hours depending on the location of the monkey’s location. This time includes the on hour of encounter as you take flash less photography.
Golden monkeys are always playful energetic and completely absorbed into their world. They play, chase each other while others feed on bamboo shoots the one hour with the golden monkeys is so memorable to make you forget about schedules and distances.
The experience is less strenuous and ideal for travelers seeking lighter hikes with adventurous wildlife encounters.
At Midday: Return and lunch
After the trek, drive to the park centre to relax and share your experience with fellow trekkers. Later transfer to a nearby restaurant or hotel for lunch in Musanze.
Afternoon optional activities.
Option 1: Ibyiwacu Cultural village – To learn about Rwanda’s history, tradition and cultural practices. through music, dances and crafts.
Option 2: Visiting the twin lakes (Ruhondo and Bulera) – For scenic boat cruise and photo stop
Option 3: Ellen De Generes Campus – To learn more about gorilla research and conservation.
Returning to Kigali:
At your leisure or depending on your flight schedule, drive back to Kigali past the rolling hills which will be now clear and familiar. Drop off at your preferred location.
A golden monkey permit in Rwanda costs $100 per person.
What is included in the trip.
- Golden monkey tracking permit
- Professional English-speaking driver guide
- Ranger guide during tracking
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle & fuel
- Lunch & drinking water
- Pickup and drop off
What is excluded in the trip.
- Personal travel insurance
- Rwanda visa fees and flight tickets
- Any additional meals or snacks not included in the itinerary
- Personal trekking gear (e.g., hiking boots, gloves, rain jacket)
- Tips for guides, rangers, and porters
- Optional souvenirs or local craft purchases
What makes golden monkey tracking special.
-Visitor numbers are limited to 8 people to visit a golden monkey group per day.
– Treks are carefully monitored by rangers.
– Golden monkey tracking is one way of supporting conservation efforts.
– The trek is shorter and less strenuous.
What is the best time for golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park?
Golden monkey trekking is all year-round activity, but the dry seasons in June–September and December–February offer easier hiking conditions.