4-Day Rwanda-Uganda Golden Monkey and Gorilla Trekking

Duration

4 Days | 3 Nights

Tour Location

Uganda, Rwanda

Price

From $2,200

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a golden monkey trekking tour in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s premier attraction. Trek through the enchanting bamboo jungles of the Virunga Volcanoes, offering a relatively easy journey to encounter the striking golden monkeys. Spend an hour in their captivating presence, immersing yourself in their natural habitat. Following this extraordinary experience, journey to the misty forests of Bwindi, home to over half of the world’s remaining 720 mountain gorillas. Here, amidst lush landscapes, discover unparalleled birding opportunities, immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences, and seek out elusive primates for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

Included

Park fees (For non-residents)
Gorilla/Golden Monkey permits (One per person, non-resident)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)

Not Included

International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)

Day by Day Activities.

Day 1: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon your arrival at Kigali Airport, our knowledgeable driver guide will greet you and commence a guided tour through the rapidly evolving neighborhoods of Kigali, each contributing to the city’s dynamic transformation. An optional visit to the Presidential Museum offers insight into Rwanda’s political history, situated within the former residences of two esteemed Presidents. Continuing our journey, we’ll traverse the older commercial and residential districts, with a poignant stop at the Kigali Genocide Memorial Site, a somber tribute to the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. Following a refreshing lunch break, we’ll venture towards Musanze, with a possible detour to behold the breathtaking beauty of twin Lakes Burera and Ruhondo, framed by towering hills and cascading waterfalls against the backdrop of Virunga Volcanoes. Your accommodation awaits at the selected hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Day 2. Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Start your day with an early breakfast, followed by a transfer to the park head offices in Kinigi by 7:00 am. Upon arrival, join fellow golden monkey trekkers for a brief orientation with the ranger guide, gaining insights into the activity and the park. At 8:00 am, embark on a scenic transfer to the trailhead just outside the park, reveling in magnificent views of the mountainous landscape. As you begin your trek into the park, immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings while seeking out the golden monkeys. These fascinating creatures typically inhabit the bamboo forests near the park’s edge, where the terrain is relatively flat and conducive to trekking. Witness their agile movements as they feed on young bamboo leaves with remarkable skill. Keep a keen eye out as they may venture into nearby potato fields, displaying their fondness for this particular treat!

After an amazing one hour with the golden monkeys, you will return to the trailhead and drive back to the lodge for lunch. Thereafter, head to the border where after clearing we will proceed to Bwindi.

Day 3. Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Following an early breakfast, stroll to the park headquarters for a briefing on the guidelines for gorilla tracking. Then, venture onto the gorilla trail, where tracking can range from 2 to 8 hours or more. Once you encounter these majestic apes, you’ll have the privilege of spending at least an hour in their presence. It’s recommended to carry a packed lunch, provided, as tracking duration can vary. Afterwards, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, passing through picturesque landscapes often likened to the ‘Switzerland of Africa’ due to its cool climate. Lake Bunyonyi, renowned as one of Uganda’s most stunning destinations, beckons with its tranquil waters, reaching depths of 900 meters and offering safe swimming conditions, free from bilharzia. Dinner and overnight accommodations await at your lodge, completing a day filled with unforgettable experiences.

Day 4. Lake Bunyonyi Activities and Transfer to Kigali

Following breakfast, embark on a scenic boat ride to explore the captivating islands of Lake Bunyonyi. Later, journey to the Katuna border for your crossing into Rwanda. Upon arrival, commence a Kigali city tour, beginning with a poignant visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre. Explore various city landmarks and vibrant craft markets, immersing yourself in the local culture. Finally, transfer to Kigali Airport for your departure flight, bidding farewell to Rwanda with cherished memories of your journey.