3-Day Budget Rwanda Gorilla Trek

Join us on an unforgettable 3-day budget gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills. Designed for travelers seeking the thrill of meeting the rare mountain gorillas without the frills, this compact safari experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience without compromising comfort or care. Rwanda is one of three African countries that harbor the last remaining population of mountain gorillas, besides Uganda and the democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This 3-day budget Rwanda gorilla trek takes you to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s premier gorilla trekking destination, where dense jungle meets dramatic volcanic slopes.

Located in the northwest of the massive Virunga Volcanic region, this park is home to an array of endangered species, including mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and a variety of wildlife. Moreover, the park’s strategic position, approximately two hours from Kigali International Airport, makes it the world’s most accessible gorilla national park. Our 3-day budget Rwanda gorilla trek will start and end in Kigali, Rwanda.

Trip Highlights

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Stay in a comfortable budget eco-lodge surrounded by nature
Seamless airport transfers to and from Kigali
Optional Kigali City tour
Optional cultural and nature excursions are available at the lodge

Detailed Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Pick-up from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, your driver-guide will be waiting to welcome you. From here, you will embark on a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour drive through Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills” to Volcanoes National Park. In case you arrive in Kigali late, we recommend adding a pre-night in the city on request.

On arrival in Volcanoes National Park, you will be transferred to your comfortable budget lodge for check-in. Relax at your lodge set amidst serene surroundings and natural views. Overnight stay in Volcanoes National Park.

Budget Accommodation Options: Kinigi Guest House, Isange Paradise Resort, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Rise early at 6:30 am and enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for your gorilla trekking briefing. Here, experienced rangers will assign you take you through mountain gorillas and the process of gorilla trekking. After the briefing, you will be distributed into groups of eight people, and each group will be assigned a gorilla family to trek, based on your fitness level and trekking preferences.

By 7:30 am, your expert rangers and guides will lead you into the forest in search of your gorilla family. The trek to see the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes can last anywhere between 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas in the forest. While the hike might seem challenging, it is deeply rewarding, winding through bamboo groves, mist-shrouded trails with breathtaking views.

Once your group locates the gorillas, you will have one hour to observe them in their natural habitats. Enjoy this hour immersing yourself in the daily routine of these gentle giants as the juveniles play between trees, adult mothers cradle their young, and the iconic silverback just calmly and majestically watches over his family. You are allowed to take photos and record videos of the experience; however, be advised that flash photography is not allowed during gorilla trekking.

After spending a memorable hour in the company of the gorillas, trek back to the park headquarters for certification and appreciation. From here, your driver guide will take you back to your lodge for a late lunch and relaxation. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, reflecting, recharging, and reliving the wonder with the mountain gorillas. Overnight stay in Volcanoes National Park.

Budget Accommodation Options: Amahoro Guest House, Isange Paradise Resort, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge.
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 3: Volcanoes to Kigali – Farewell, Rwanda

After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin your return journey to Kigali. The scenic drive offers one last chance to soak in Rwanda’s lush beauty. Upon arrival, you may be transferred to your hotel or Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. If you wish to extend your trip with cultural tours, city stays, or add-on safaris in Rwanda, Uganda, or Kenya, we are happy to craft a personalized itinerary for you.

Trip Inclusions

2 nights’ accommodation on full board
Rwanda gorilla trekking permit ($1500)
Private transfers to and from Kigali International Airport
Service of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
Bottled drinking water during transfers

Trip Exclusions

International and domestic flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (tips, souvenirs, alcohol, etc.)
Optional activities and excursions

Things to Know When Going on a Rwanda Gorilla Trek

A Rwanda gorilla trekking permit costs $1,500 and must be booked in advance.
Gorilla treks in Volcanoes start as early as 7:00 am, with a briefing at Kinigi Park HQ by 7:00 AM for briefing.
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes can be tough, with hikes varying from 30 minutes to 6 hours on steep terrain.
To trek mountain gorillas in Volcanoes, one must be 15 years and above
Dress appropriately for the trek. Wear hiking boots, long sleeves, rain gear, and gloves.
Pack essentials such as plenty of drinking water, insect repellent, snacks, a face mask, a good camera with extra batteries, and a walking stick.
To trek mountain gorillas, one must be healthy and sick travelers maybe denied trekking. this is because gorillas are vulnerable to human diseases.
Tourists are required to respect the gorilla trekking rules and follow the guides’ lead during trekking.
The best time to embark on a Rwanda gorilla trek is during the dry seasons, typically from June to September and December to February, when the trekking conditions are favorable.