5- Day gorilla tracking and Mukungwa river rafting safari in the virungas
Rwanda provides one of the most interesting and accessible adventure experiences in Africa. In a matter of days, you can get up close and personal with a family of the critically endangered mountain gorillas in the foggy forests of Volcanoes National Park before switching to thrilling rafting on the picturesque Mukungwa River close to Musanze. This plan minimizes long travel distances, offers good budget, while striking a balance between physical exercise, wildlife encounters, and relaxation for a memorable Rwanda safari.
Trip details
Day 1: Arrival and transfer to Volcanoes National Park
On arrival at airport, or professional driver guide will take care of the logistics, have a brief historical and educational visit to Kigali genocide memorial site lunch in Kigali and set off for Musanze through the scenic rolling hills that render Rwanda being referred to as “The Land of a Thousand Hills”.
Volcanoes National Park is 104 Km away from Kigali. Because of the speed limits imposed by the Rwandan government and unpredicted traffic jam, it takes approximately 3 hours to connect from Kigali to Musanze. Check in on arrival, dinner with views of the Virunga volcanoes, and later night stay.
Accommodation
- Amikus Hotel / Classic Resort Hotel – (Budget)
- Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / La Palme Hotel / Da Vinci Lodge – (Midrange)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / One and only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge / Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge – (Luxury)
Day 2: Gorilla tracking experience;
At 6:30am, have breakfast and head to Kinigi park centre, at 7:30am, attend a briefing from the park guides about the gorilla trekking rules and regulations. Group allocations are done depending prior request and physical abilities.
With the guidance of park rangers and guides, the trek begins at the edge of the forest to deeper jungles. the trek lasts for one to six hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. An hour with the gentle giant apes makes your adventure breathtaking and worth the cost. Spend the evening relaxing at the accommodation. Dinner and overnight.
Accommodation
- Amikus Hotel / Classic Resort Hotel – (Budget)
- Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / La Palme Hotel / Da Vinci Lodge – (Midrange)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / One and only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge / Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge – (Luxury)
Day 3: Golden monkey tracking and cultural exploration.
After an early morning breakfast, return to Kinigi park centre for a briefing about golden monkey tracking. Start your two-to four-hours hike in the bamboo forested zones to observe golden monkeys. These are shy primates, but so fascinating to catch a glance of them. You must be alert enough to take pictures of them because they are playful and constantly jump from tree to tree.
After your one hour of close encounter, return to your accommodation for lunch and relaxation. in the evening, visit the gorilla guardian village (Ibyiwacu Cultural centre) to learn about Rwanda’s history, culture and tradition. Enjoy cultural songs, tales, dances and other exhibitions. Dinner and overnight .
Accommodation
- Amikus Hotel / Classic Resort Hotel – (Budget)
- Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / La Palme Hotel / Da Vinci Lodge – (Midrange)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / One and only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge / Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge – (Luxury)
Day 4: Mukungwa river rafting adventure
On day 4 of your 5 days gorilla and rafting experience in Volcanoes national park, wake up toa yummy breakfast. With your rafting gear, drive to the shores of Mukungwa river which is found at the foothills of the Virunga volcanoes, still in Musanze. At the launch point of the river, meet the local guides who will brief you about the activity, learn the ecology and biodiversity of the river and it surroundings. The river has rapids in grade II and III. You are free to choose what you want depending on your capability. A full or half -day rafting adventure provides a unique perspective of rural Rwanda. get to enjoy birdlife, the green scenic landscape at the shores and the best moments of interacting with the local community. In the afternoon, return to the lodge, relax, have dinner and night stay.
Accommodation
- Amikus Hotel / Classic Resort Hotel – (Budget)
- Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / La Palme Hotel / Da Vinci Lodge – (Midrange)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / One and only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge / Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge – (Luxury)
Day 5: return to Kigali
On your last day in the virungas, enjoy a relaxed breakfast with views of the virunga mountains. Check out of the accommodation and return to Kigali. Visit some of the places you missed on day 1 like craft shops, Kimironko market or souvenir stores. Transfer to the airport for departure.
End of 5 days gorilla and rafting safari in the virungas.
Trip inclusions
- Golden monkey & gorilla permits
- Guide services (English-speaking)
- Ground transport in a 4×4 vehicle with fuel
- Bottled water
- All trip activities as mentioned in the itinerary
- Accommodation and meals for 4 nights.
Trip exclusions
- Visas and tickets
- International flights
- Personal insurance
- Other personal expenses like: Tips, Laundry, cigars, Souvenir shopping, Beverages and optional activities outside the itinerary.