Rwanda: 6-Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Tracking, Big 5 Tour

Travelers seeking a mix of wildlife encounters, culture, and scenic beauty will find this 6-day Rwanda adventure a compelling choice. Organized by Devine African Safaris Limited, this tour offers the chance to witness Rwanda’s iconic mountain gorillas, playful golden monkeys, and the Big 5 in their natural habitat—all while exploring vibrant local culture and stunning landscapes.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its careful blend of wildlife tracking and cultural exposure. We love the chance to visit the Red Rocks Intercultural Exchange Center, get close to endangered species, and enjoy scenic boat rides. Plus, the inclusion of quality accommodations and guided tours adds value, especially given the high price point.

On the flip side, the tour’s cost of $4,609 per person is not cheap—though the experiences offered justify the expense for wildlife enthusiasts and those craving authentic African safaris. Keep in mind that a good level of fitness is necessary for the walking involved, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women, young children, or those with mobility issues. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive, well-rounded view of Rwanda’s natural and cultural treasures.

Key Points

• Wildlife Highlights: Close encounters with mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and the Big 5 in Akagera.
• Cultural Insights: Visits to local villages, the Kigali genocide memorial, and the Ellen DeGeneres Gorilla Fund.
• Scenic Experiences: Boat cruise on Lake Ihema and game drives through Akagera National Park.
• Comfort & Convenience: Full-board accommodation, transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle, and all park fees included.
• Physical Demands: Expect walking and some hiking, so good fitness is recommended.
• Value for Money: The price reflects the exclusivity and quality of wildlife encounters and guided experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Breakdown of the 6-Day Rwanda Tour

Day 1: From Kigali to Musanze – Cultural Beginnings and Scenic Drive

Your adventure kicks off with a city tour of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. Visiting sites like the craft market offers a taste of local craftsmanship, while the Kigali genocide memorial provides a sobering reminder of the country’s history. These visits set the tone, balancing cultural reflection with appreciation for Rwanda’s resilience.

Post-city tour, you head northwards to Musanze, often called the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, a stop at the Ib’yIwacu Cultural Village provides a lively introduction to Rwanda’s pre-colonial traditions. Here, you might try your hand at archery, learn about traditional medicine, or even experience local food prep—making the journey both educational and fun.

Accommodation at Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge offers a comfortable base with rustic charm, perfect for resting up before the wildlife adventures ahead.

Day 2: Golden Monkey Trekking & Conservation Insight

The next morning, you’ll head to Volcanoes National Park headquarters for your first wildlife encounter: the golden monkeys. The trek is described as easy, typically lasting one to two hours. But don’t let the simplicity fool you—watching these lively primates leap and play among the bamboo is a highlight.

After the trek, a delicious lunch at the lodge awaits, giving you time to relax and process the morning’s fun. In the afternoon, a visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus offers a behind-the-scenes look at gorilla conservation efforts. You’ll learn about the work of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and see how local scientists are working to protect these endangered animals.

Day 3: Gorilla Tracking – Meeting Rwanda’s Gentle Giants

This day is the pinnacle for many visitors: the chance to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. An early start means arriving at park headquarters bright and early, where you’ll receive a briefing on gorilla tracking conduct—respectful behavior is crucial to protect these creatures.

The trek can take anywhere from two to six hours, depending on the gorillas’ movements, so good stamina and patience are essential. Once you find the gorillas, you’re allowed a maximum of one hour to observe their behavior—watching a silverback male and his family interact in the wild is utterly captivating.

We’ve read from one reviewer that “the moment you see the gorillas, it’s totally worth the walk,” and another added, “you truly feel like you’re witnessing something extraordinary.” The experience is intense and emotional, often leaving a lasting impression.

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Day 4: Transition to Akagera National Park

After breakfast and checkout, the journey continues southward toward Akagera National Park via Kigali—a scenic drive that takes roughly a few hours. Here, you’re swapping mountain rainforest for savannah plains, full of open vistas and wide-ranging wildlife.

Your home for the next two nights is the Akagera Game Lodge, offering a cozy spot to relax after a day of travel. The change of scenery keeps the experience fresh and engaging.

Day 5: Big Game Safari & Lake Ihema Boat Ride

Early morning, you’ll embark on a game drive in an open-top vehicle—an ideal way to spot the Big 5 (elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards) along with giraffes, zebras, gazelles, and more. The drive is fast-paced but balanced with opportunities for close-up sightings.

Following the game drive, a boat trip on Lake Ihema introduces you to the park’s aquatic residents—hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species, including the rare shoe-billed stocks and papyrus gonoleks. The boat ride is relaxed, offering great photo opportunities and a chance to see wildlife from a different perspective.

A reviewer praised the “stunning views” and “delicious food” they enjoyed during this part of the trip, highlighting how the scenery and abundant birdlife elevate the experience.

Day 6: Return to Kigali

The last morning begins with a final game drive, giving you one last chance to spot wildlife. After breakfast, you’ll drive back to Kigali, either for your departure or to explore more of the city.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Transport & Guides: The tour uses a 4×4 safari vehicle, ensuring comfort and safety during long drives and bumpy roads. A knowledgeable guide accompanies you throughout, with insight into Rwanda’s wildlife and culture. One reviewer mentioned that guides, like Albert, were “friendly, informative, and passionate about conservation.”

Accommodation & Meals: Full-board stays at Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge and Akagera Game Lodge mean your meals and lodging are taken care of. The lodges are comfortable, though not ultra-luxurious, blending rustic charm with practicality.

Permits & Fees: All park entry fees and animal-tracking permits are included, making it a hassle-free experience. No hidden costs here, which is a relief for travelers concerned about budget surprises.

Physical Demands: Expect walking, sometimes on uneven terrain. Good fitness is recommended—if you’re prone to back problems or mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The tour is not suitable for children under 15 or pregnant women.

Timing & Group Size: The itinerary is well-paced, with ample time allocated for each activity to avoid rushing. Group sizes tend to be small, fostering an intimate experience with plenty of personal interaction.

Additional Tips

• Bring sturdy hiking shoes, insect repellent, a jacket for cooler mornings, and your passport or ID.
• Though drinks are not included, you can purchase beverages at the lodges.
• Bookings are flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the exclusive nature of gorilla and golden monkey tracking, the $4,609 price reflects access to some of Rwanda’s most treasured wildlife, guided expert knowledge, and comfortable accommodations. The combination of wildlife, cultural visits, and scenic drives provides surprising value for travelers wanting an all-encompassing experience.

While the cost is significant, many travelers feel it’s justified by the once-in-a-lifetime nature of the activities—especially being able to see the gentle giants of the forest and the playful golden monkeys in their natural environment. The inclusion of conservation visits and local cultural experiences adds depth beyond purely wildlife viewing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers, wildlife lovers, and culture enthusiasts who are comfortable with walking and some physical activity. It’s ideal for those who value guided expertise and want a comprehensive taste of Rwanda’s natural beauty and history.

It’s a perfect choice for people looking for a meaningful, immersive journey that combines safari thrills with cultural insights. However, those seeking luxury or traveling with very young children might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? No—since walking over uneven terrain and some hiking are involved, it’s not recommended for those with mobility limitations.

What kind of wildlife will I see besides gorillas and golden monkeys? You’ll have opportunities to spot the Big 5 in Akagera—including elephants, lions, and rhinos—as well as giraffes, zebras, and a variety of bird species.

Are the accommodations comfortable? Yes, the lodges provide full-board, rustic yet comfortable lodging, designed to support a good night’s sleep after busy days.

How long are the gorilla treks? They range from two to six hours depending on gorilla movement, so a reasonable level of physical fitness is needed.

What should I pack? Bring sturdy hiking shoes, insect repellent, a jacket, and your passport or ID. The weather can be cool in the mornings and evenings.

Is this tour family-friendly? No—it’s not suitable for children under 15, pregnant women, or those with back problems or mobility issues.

Can I cancel my booking easily? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

Final Words

This 6-day Rwanda tour offers an impressive blend of wildlife encounters, cultural exposure, and scenic landscapes. The chance to observe mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in the wild is unforgettable, and the inclusion of Big 5 safaris in Akagera complements the experience perfectly.

For travelers eager to explore Rwanda’s natural beauty with guided support and comfortable accommodations, this tour provides remarkable value. The inclusion of cultural visits and conservation education makes it more than just a safari—it’s an enriching journey into one of Africa’s most fascinating countries.

If you’re okay with the price and physical demands, this trip promises a memorable, life-changing adventure that combines wildlife, culture, and scenic splendor in a single, well-organized package.

You can check availability for your dates here: