3 Days in Rwanda for Gorillas Safari and Golden Monkeys
This 3 days in Rwanda itinerary perfectly combines primate trekking with scenic and cultural highlights around Volcanoes National Park. It includes a gorilla safari, golden monkey tracking, and optional visits to Dian Fossey’s legacy site or the Twin Lakes. The journey ends with a return to Kigali for city exploration before departure.
Looking for a short safari escape that delivers high-impact wildlife experiences in just a few days? This 3 days in Rwanda itinerary is crafted for travelers who want to focus on primates while enjoying the scenic and cultural richness of Volcanoes National Park. From the moment you arrive in Kigali, the journey flows seamlessly into Musanze, where the forested slopes of the Virunga volcanoes set the stage for your gorilla safari. Day two centers on tracking mountain gorillas, followed by a choice between visiting the Dian Fossey tomb or exploring the Twin Lakes each offering a different lens into Rwanda’s conservation story. On the final day, golden monkey trekking adds a vibrant contrast to the gorilla safari, with time to return to Kigali for city highlights before departure. Whether you're a first-time visitor or adding Rwanda to a broader East Africa itinerary, this compact plan ensures your 3 days in Rwanda are filled with meaningful wildlife moments, practical logistics, and a touch of local culture
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival at Kigali Airport, Transfer to Musanze
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking with Dian Fossey Hike or Twin Lakes Experience
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking, Return to Kigali for Exploration and Departure
Price Includes:
- Park Entrance Fees
- Gorilla Permits
- Golden monkey permit
- All Accommodation
- All Meals
- All Transport on a safari
- English Speaking Safari GuideBottled Water
- Airport Tranfers
Price Excludes:
- Rwandan Visa
- International and Interna Flights
- Personal needs such as gratitudes, beverages
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival at Kigali Airport, Transfer to Musanze
Your 3 days in Rwanda begin with arrival at Kigali International Airport, where you’ll meet your guide and start the drive to Musanze, the base for your gorilla safari. The journey takes around 2.5 hours through Rwanda’s scenic countryside, offering views of terraced hills and local villages. This first leg of your gorilla safari allows time to settle in and prepare for the wildlife experiences ahead. Upon reaching Musanze, check into your lodge near Volcanoes National Park. Depending on arrival time, you may opt for a short visit to a local cultural center or enjoy the lodge’s peaceful surroundings. This day sets the foundation for your 3 days in Rwanda, combining gentle travel with a chance to acclimate before the forest treks begin
- Day2Gorilla Trekking with Dian Fossey Hike or Twin Lakes Experience
Day two of your 3 days in Rwanda starts early with a briefing at Volcanoes National Park before heading into the forest for your gorilla safari. Guided by experienced rangers, you’ll track a habituated gorilla family and spend up to one hour observing their behavior in their natural habitat. This gorilla safari offers a rare and respectful encounter with one of the world’s most endangered species. After returning to your lodge for lunch, choose between a guided hike to the Dian Fossey tomb site or a visit to the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Both options offer a deeper look into Rwanda’s conservation efforts and natural beauty. This second day of your 3 days in Rwanda blends wildlife, history, and landscape in a meaningful way
- Day3Golden Monkey Trekking, Return to Kigali for Exploration and Departure
The final day of your 3 days in Rwanda begins with golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. These lively primates are found in the park’s bamboo zones and are a highlight of any gorilla safari itinerary. The trek is generally shorter and less demanding, offering a light yet engaging wildlife experience. After the trek, return to your lodge for a refresh before driving back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may explore the Kigali Genocide Memorial, visit local craft shops, or enjoy lunch at a city café. This concluding day of your 3 days in Rwanda ties together wildlife, culture, and urban insight, rounding off your gorilla safari with a thoughtful return to the capital before departure