3 Days Volcanoes And Dian Fossey Hike Tour
3 Days of Gorilla Trekking and Dian Fossey Hike Safari.
This 3 days Volcanoes and Dian Fossey hike tour is a powerful and inspiring Rwanda safari experience in the heart of Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains. It combines the moment of meeting endangered mountain gorillas with a hike to the final resting place of Dian Fossey, the legendary primatologist who dedicated her life to protecting gorillas. Volcanoes National Park is located in northwestern Rwanda and is famous for its mountain gorillas, golden monkeys and breathtaking scenery.
Safari Highlights
Day 1: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking
Day 3: Dian Fossey Hike and Return to Kigali
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Your journey begins with a morning pickup from Kigali. After a short briefing from your professional driver guide, you will set off for Volcanoes National Park. The drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park takes approximately 2 hours. Along the way, you will enjoy Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills”. Upon arrival, check in and relax as you prepare for lunch.
In the afternoon, you can choose to visit the Iby’iwacu Village for a cultural experience. Here, you will learn about traditional Rwandan dances, local customs and much more. Dinner and overnight will be at the lodge.
- Meal plan: Lunch and dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking
You will wake up early for breakfast and then transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing at 7:00 am. Rangers will explain the gorilla trekking rules and assign you to a specific gorilla family group based on your fitness level. The trek will take about 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family.
When you finally encounter the gorillas, you are allowed one hour in their presence. You will watch them feed, play, breastfeed and do much more. After the trek, you will return to the park headquarters, where you will receive a trekking certificate. Later, transfer back to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you will simply relax at the lodge with views of the volcanoes. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
- Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 3: Dian Fossey Hike and Return to Kigali
After an early breakfast, you will return to the park headquarters for a briefing before starting the Dian Fossey hike. The hike to Dian Fossey’s grave and the former Karisoke Research Centre typically takes about 3 to 4 hours round trip, depending on your pace. The trail leads through dense forest on the slopes between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi. The hike is moderately challenging but very rewarding.
At the tomb, you will find Dian Fossey buried next to her favourite gorilla, Digit. You will learn about her conservation efforts and the history of the gorillas. After descending from the hike, you will return to your lodge for lunch. After having lunch, you will check out. You will then be taken back to Kigali and be dropped off at Kigali Airport or a hotel.
- Meal plan: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation Options at Volcanoes National Park
Luxury: Bisate Lodge
Midrange: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
Budget: Kinigi Guest House
End of the 3-Day Volcanoes and Dian Fossey Hike Tour.
Safari Includes
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Dian Fossey hike permit
- 4 x 4 safari vehicle with fuel
- Professional English-speaking driver guide
- 2 nights’ accommodation
- Meals
- Bottled drinking water
- Park entry fees
- Pick-up and drop-off
Safari Excludes
- Tips and gratuities
- Life insurance
- Visa fees
- Air ticket fees
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, souvenirs, alcoholic beverages)
- Optional activities not mentioned
