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Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide. From there, you will embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park in the Musanze District. This journey, which takes approximately 2-3 hours, offers breathtaking views of the Rwandan countryside, with its rolling hills and lush landscapes.

Once you arrive at the park, you will check into your lodge and enjoy a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to explore the Musanze Caves, a fascinating network of caves formed by volcanic activity. This tour provides a unique glimpse into the geological history of the region and is a great way to stretch your legs after the drive.

In the evening, you will return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation, preparing for the exciting day ahead.

Main destination: Volcanoes National Park

Accommodation: Lodge around Volcanoes National Park

Meal plan: Lunch and Dinner.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Visit to Ibyiwacu Cultural Village

The day begins with an early breakfast at your lodge, followed by a transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking rules and guidelines. You will then embark on a trek into the forest to find one of the habituated gorilla families. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas.

Once you find the gorillas, you will spend a magical hour observing them in their natural habitat, watching them play, eat, and interact with each other. After this unforgettable experience, you will return to the park headquarters and receive your trekking certificate.

In the afternoon, you will enjoy a packed lunch provided by your lodge before visiting the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village, also known as the Gorilla Guardians Village. Here, you will immerse yourself in Rwandan culture, participating in traditional dances, learning about local customs, and hearing stories from ex-poachers who have turned to conservation.

In the evening, you will return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.

Main destination: Volcanoes National Park

Accommodation: Lodge around Volcanoes National Park

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Departure

After breakfast at your lodge, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey trekking. You will then trek into the forest to find the playful and endangered golden monkeys. This trek is usually shorter and less strenuous than gorilla trekking, allowing you to spend time observing the golden monkeys as they leap through the bamboo forest.

Following the trek, you will return to the park headquarters and enjoy lunch at your lodge. In the afternoon, you will transfer back to Kigali. If time permits, you can visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about Rwanda’s history and resilience.

In the evening, you will arrive in Kigali and transfer to the airport for your departure flight. The main destination for the day is Kigali, with no accommodation options needed as it is your departure day. Your meal plan includes breakfast and lunch.

Main destination: Volcanoes National Park

Accommodation: No Accommodation

Meal plan: Breakfast and Dinner.

Found in the heart of Rwanda, the Gorilla Guardians Village, formerly known as Ibyiwacu Cultural Village, is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Despite its small size and limited natural resources compared to its neighbours, Rwanda has emerged as a premier tourist destination in Africa, thanks to strategic efforts by the Rwanda Tourism Board (RDB).

One of the standout attractions for visitors is the Gorilla Guardians Village, located in the Musanze District. The name “Iby’iwacu” translates to “Treasures of our home and heritage” in Kinyarwanda, perfectly encapsulating the essence of this cultural haven. This village offers an immersive experience of Rwanda’s traditions, showcasing the vibrant culture and history that make the country truly unique.

The Iby’iwacu Cultural Village is one of Rwanda’s premier cultural attractions. This village encapsulates the rich tapestry of Rwanda’s artistic traditions, people, and history, offering visitors an immersive experience. International tourists can witness the essence of life in a traditional African village, including the lifestyle, housing, traditional dances, attire, cuisine, medicinal herbs, and the organisational structure of ancient kingdoms. Visitors have the chance to learn ancient hunting techniques, try their hand at weaving baskets and mats, and even engage in carpentry. This unique cultural experience has captivated many who seek to delve into Rwanda’s native culture after exploring Kigali, observing gorillas, or hiking mountains like Karisimbi. Additionally, the village provides a serene environment for relaxation and offers opportunities to purchase local crafts, gifts, and souvenirs to take back home.

Beyond generating significant revenue and publicity, the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village plays a crucial role in uniting Rwanda’s diverse cultural and tribal groups, including the Tutsis, Hutus, and Batwa. It fosters a sense of unity based on shared cultural values. Many local performers, such as the Batwa, who were once poachers, have found new livelihoods through the Gorilla Guardians Cultural Village.

The Iby’iwacu Cultural Village offers a rich tapestry of activities that blend learning with relaxation, immersing visitors in the vibrant local culture. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the energetic beats of traditional drumming and dancing, setting the stage for the experiences ahead. Here are some highlights:

The Batwa pygmies, once forest hunters and gatherers in Rwanda and Uganda, were relocated from their ancestral forests decades ago. Some now reside at the Iby’iwacu Cultural Centre, where they have embraced new opportunities through tourism. The Batwa have transitioned from poaching to mastering skills in pottery, art, design, dance, and drama. During your visit, you’ll be captivated by their demonstrations of traditional hunting techniques, including setting animal traps and using tools like spears, bows, and arrows.

A visit to the King’s Palace at the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village offers a glimpse into the lives of ancient Rwandan kings. The palace showcases how these revered leaders ruled and managed their courts. The kings held the highest authority, and their decisions were absolute. The palace, complete with symbols of power and information about each clan, provides a true picture of an ancient African kingdom. A guide will be on hand to explain the significance of each symbol and answer any questions you may have.

Engage deeply with the local Kinyarwanda culture through home visits and community walks. At the Gorilla Guardians Village, you’ll have the chance to sit with locals in their traditional homes and grass-thatched huts. Elders will share captivating stories about Rwanda’s history and heritage. You can also visit banana and vegetable plantations, and perhaps even learn to prepare traditional foods or use a grinding stone to make millet flour.

The community walk is equally enriching. A guide will take you to local schools where you can interact with students and learn about the education system. You’ll also find numerous local art shops offering paintings, woven clothes, beautiful pots, and more.

Traditional healers have long been pillars of their communities, offering remedies for various ailments using natural resources like herbs, tree branches, roots, and shrubs. These healers possess extensive knowledge passed down through generations, and they take pride in the enduring relevance of traditional medicine, even through colonial times. At the Gorilla Guardians Cultural Village, you’ll have the opportunity to meet these healers, who will eagerly demonstrate how local medicines work. You might even try some of the natural remedies and discover relief for ailments you’ve struggled with for years.

Drinking local beer has historically been a unifying activity in African traditional social settings, especially during ceremonies like new harvest celebrations and welcoming newborns. At the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, you’ll learn how the banana brew is made and fermented. Participating in the brewing process and sampling the final product is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Music, dance, and drama are integral to African culture, providing a sense of belonging and community. At the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, you can listen to unique local musical sounds such as the Ingoma, Amakondera, Umuduri, Inanga, Iningiri, Ibyivugo, and Agakenke. Each has its own distinct instruments and dance styles. The Intore dance, performed by men in grass clothing with bells around their legs, is a highlight. These performers, with their joyful expressions, will eagerly invite you to join in the dance or learn to drum.

The Iby’iwacu Cultural Center, also known as the Gorilla Guardians Village, has established rules and norms to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind:

Maintain Cleanliness: Visitors are prohibited from littering. Rubbish bins are strategically placed throughout the centre to help maintain its cleanliness.

Respect Nature: It is crucial to respect the natural environment. Avoid damaging plants or any green cover within the village.

Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of local customs and norms. For instance, use your right hand when eating or greeting locals, and use both hands when exchanging gifts to show respect.

Photography Etiquette: Always ask for permission before taking photographs.

Engage Respectfully: Feel free to ask questions from your tour guide or the elders for any clarifications.

Dress Appropriately: Given the multicultural and ethnic setting, dress modestly to show respect for local customs.

Cultural Exchange: Foreign visitors are encouraged to share their own cultures with the locals, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.

Friendly Interaction: Engage with the locals in a friendly and humble manner. Be patient as they share their knowledge and stories.

Security and Donations: For the safety and security of the locals, hand over any donations or gifts to the responsible authorities.

Note: Dav Safaris includes a visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Center in most of their Rwanda tour packages. This cultural centre is an excellent retreat after activities like Mountain Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, mountain hiking, or biking through the Congo Nile Trail. Its unique offerings make it a memorable experience on your safari.

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is the premier destination for gorilla safaris. Located in the northwest of the country, this park is home to several habituated gorilla groups that visitors can trek to see. The park’s dense forests and mountainous terrain provide a perfect habitat for these gentle giants. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a well-organized activity, with experienced guides leading small groups of tourists to the gorilla families.

The Park is divided into different sectors, each home to various gorilla groups. Some of the well-known groups include the Susa Group, which is the largest and was famously studied by Dian Fossey, and the Amahoro Group, known for its peaceful nature. Each group has its unique characteristics and dynamics, making every trek a unique experience.

Booking Gorilla Permits: To trek gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, visitors need to obtain a permit. The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1500 per person per trek for foreign non-residents, $500 for African Citizens and $200 for East African Citizens, which includes the park entry fee and the services of a guide. The permits are limited to eight per gorilla group per day to minimize the impact on the gorillas and their habitat. It’s advisable to book permits well in advance, as they are in high demand. Contact us to help you purchase your gorilla permit.

Golden Monkey Trekking: Volcanoes National Park is a prime location for encountering the endangered Golden monkeys. These playful primates are easier to track as they inhabit the lower regions of the park, leaving behind bamboo foliage that guides trekkers to their location.

Bird Watching: With over 300 bird species, some endemic to the Albertine Rift, Volcanoes National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. While bird watching is particularly rewarding during the rainy season, it can be enjoyed year-round. Notable species include the Archer’s ground robin, Rwenzori Batis, collared Apalis, and Grauer’s rush warbler.

Dian Fossey Tomb Visit: One of the most poignant activities in Volcanoes National Park is the hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb. This trail, approximately 3,000 meters long, commemorates the renowned primatologist who dedicated her life to protecting mountain gorillas. The hike not only honors her legacy but also raises awareness about the ongoing conservation efforts for these magnificent creatures.

The price of a combined Ibyiwacu Cultural Visit and Gorilla Trekking Safari can vary based on several factors. These include:

Season of Travel: Costs tend to be higher during peak seasons due to increased demand.

Group Size: Traveling with a larger group can often reduce individual costs.

Safari Activities: The number and type of activities included in your itinerary can impact the overall cost.

Duration of Safari: Longer safaris generally cost more due to additional accommodation and activity expenses.

Personal Expenditures: Additional personal purchases can also affect the total cost.

Contact Us to get a sample quote today.

When planning your combined gorilla trekking and volcano hike in Rwanda, you have a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. These options are categorized into budget, mid-range, and luxury facilities. Here are some notable choices:

Budget: Kinigi Guest House, Hotel Muhavura

Mid-Range: Le Bamboo Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Five Volcanoes Lodge

Luxury: Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Bisate Lodge

Each of these lodges and hotels offers unique amenities and experiences, ensuring a comfortable stay during your adventure in Volcanoes National Park.

• 3-4 pairs of lightweight, breathable pants or shorts
• 5-7 lightweight, quick-drying shirts (short and long-sleeved)
• 1-2 lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun protection
• 1 lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (high SPF)
• Insect repellent (with DEET or natural alternatives)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Moisturizer and other toiletries
• Small backpack or daypack
• Binoculars
• Camera, extra batteries, and chargers
• Adapters and converters for electrical outlets
• Travel documents (passport, visa, etc.)

Remember to pack light and opt for versatile, multi-purpose items. Layers are key for the varying temperatures and weather conditions in Uganda. Enjoy your unforgettable honeymoon safari adventure!

For more details on organizing a combined Ibyiwacu Cultural Village visit gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda, feel free to contact us at Dav Safaris.