5 Days Gorilla Trekking In Volcanoes National Park
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali.
● Arrive in Kigali: The capital of Rwanda, known for its cleanliness and hilly landscape.
● Stay: Serena Hotel Kigali – A luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Kigali.
● What to Do: Morning After Breakfast Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and explore local markets.
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park.
● Drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park (3 hours).
● Stay at One& Only Gorilla’s Nest Rwanda – A luxury eco-lodge offering breathtaking views of the volcanoes and rainforest.
● Car Recommendation: Stick with the 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser for this rugged area.
● What to Do: Relax at the lodge and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
● Activity: Gorilla trekking (permits required and need to be booked in advance).
● Stay overnight at One & Only Gorilla Nest Rwanda, A luxury eco lodge.
● What to Carry: Waterproof hiking boots, gaiters, warm clothing (for cool mornings), and rain gear.
● One & Only Gorillas Nest.
Property Overview.
Surrounded By Swaying Eucalyptus Trees, One& Only Gorillas Nest Is The Closest Resort To Volcanoes National Park, A Historic Rainforest Home To Diverse Tapestry Of Wildlife, Including Over 1000 Mountain Gorillas, Golden Monkey, And Over 300 Bird Specials In And Around The Resort, There Is An Incredible Topography Of Peaceful Sleeping Volcanoes That Defy Gravity, Creating Atmosphere And Perfect Setting For Cycling.
One & Only Gorilla Nest Is Set Against The Historic Volcanic Mountain Of Volcanoes National Park, The First National Park In Africa, And Home To Endangered Mountain Gorillas. This Is A place That Has fostered a Spirit Of Love And Protection, And Over The Years, Most Notably From Renowned Primatologist Dian Fossey.
Day 4: Golden monkey Trekking.
● Golden monkey trekking at Volcanoes Park
● Stay at One& Only Gorilla Nest Rwanda – A luxury resort nestled At the Volcanoes National Park.
● Car Recommendation: Continue with the 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser for the journey.
● What to Do: Afternoon, Check out.
Day 5: Return Kigali.
● Drive back to Kigali (3 hours).
● What to Do: Last-minute shopping or a city tour before departure.
● Stay (Optional): If you’re staying overnight, try Kigali Serena Hotel for a final night of luxury.
Recommended Car:
● 4×4 SUV (Toyota Prado or Land Cruiser) – Suitable for both paved roads and rugged national park terrains.
● Most car rental companies offer chauffeur services if needed.
Travel Tips:
● Cities & Currency: Rwanda’s main cities include Kigali, Musanze (Volcanoes NP), and Nyungwe.
The local currency is Rwandan Francs (RWF), but USD is widely accepted in tourist areas. Carry small bills.
Health and Safety:
● Vaccinations: Ensure you have up-to-date vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A/B. Rwanda also requires proof of yellow fever vaccination.
● Malaria: Rwanda is a malaria-endemic region, so take antimalarial medication and use mosquito repellent.
● Water: Drink bottled water to avoid waterborne diseases.
● Altitude Consideration: Some areas, like Volcanoes NP, are at high altitudes, so take precautions if you are prone to altitude sickness.
Packing Recommendations:
● Light layers for warm days and cool evenings.
● Comfortable hiking gear for treks (sturdy boots, breathable clothing, rain jacket).
● Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
● Personal medication, first-aid kit.
1 Visa Requirements
● Most travelers can get a visa on arrival for $50 or apply for an e-visa before traveling.
● Citizens of the African Union, the Commonwealth, and La Francophonie member states get a visa-free entry for up to 30 days.
● The East African Tourist Visa ($100) allows travel to Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya for 90 days.
2. Health & Vaccinations
● Yellow Fever vaccination is required if coming from an endemic country.
● Malaria risk is present, so consider taking anti-malarial medication.
● Other recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and routine vaccines (MMR, Tetanus).
● COVID-19: No mandatory test or vaccination but check the latest regulations before travel.
3. Currency & Payments
● The Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the local currency.
● Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and large businesses (Visa &
Mastercard).
● Mobile money is popular for payments (MTN Mobile Money, Airtel Money).
● ATMs are available, but carrying some cash is advisable for rural areas.
4. Best Time to Visit
● Dry Seasons (Best for Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife): June–September & December–February.
● Rainy Seasons (Fewer Crowds, Lush Landscapes): March–May & October–November.
5. Weather & Packing Tips.
● The climate is moderate (15–27°C / 59–81°F), but it can be chilly in the mountains.
● Essentials: Light clothing, rain jacket, hiking shoes (for gorilla trekking), sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent.
6. Getting Around.
● Public Transport: Minibuses and motorcycle taxis (“moto”) are common but may not always be safe.
● Car Rentals: Available, but driving is on the right side. Hiring a driver is recommended.
● Ride-hailing apps: YegoMoto and SafeMotos for motorcycles, VW Move for cars.
7. Cultural Etiquette.
● Greetings are important – a handshake with the right hand and a slight bow is common.
● Respect elders and avoid public displays of affection.
● Plastic bags are banned – bring reusable bags.
8. Top Attractions.
● Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla trekking.
● Akagera National Park – Safari with the Big Five.
● Nyungwe Forest – Canopy walk & chimpanzees.
● Kigali Genocide Memorial – Learn Rwanda’s history.
● Lake Kivu – Beautiful lakeside relaxation.
