Experience the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas of Rwanda on this remarkable 3-day journey. Your adventure starts with a deeply meaningful visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, followed by a transfer to the stunning Volcanoes National Park. Hike through enchanting mist-covered jungles to observe critically endangered gorilla families in their wild habitat, then tour the visionary Ellen DeGeneres Gorilla Fund conservation center.
You'll be hosted at the sustainable Sambora Kinigi Lodge, conveniently located near the park entrance. Relax in cozy accommodations, savor gourmet Rwandan cuisine, and benefit from prime access to gorilla trekking excursions. This thoughtfully designed short itinerary blends extraordinary wildlife experiences with rich cultural understanding for a truly impactful visit to Rwanda.
Volcanoes National Park
Nestled along Rwanda's border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, this breathtaking park climbs the lush, jungle-draped slopes of the volcanic Virunga range. Famous worldwide as a protected haven for endangered mountain gorillas, the park offers unforgettable opportunities to observe these magnificent primates up close. Carefully managed treks provide privileged hour-long visits with gorilla families in their natural environment. Beyond these remarkable encounters, the park boasts spectacular hiking trails, including the stunning ascent to Mount Bisoke's crystalline crater lake. Don't miss the renowned Karisoke Research Centre and the resting place of legendary primatologist Dian Fossey.
Overnight: Sambora Kinigi Lodge
Nestled in the prime location of Volcanoes National Park, Sambora Lodges offers a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern comforts. Each cottage artfully combines natural materials with contemporary amenities including air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. The on-site restaurant serves gourmet cuisine crafted from the freshest local and seasonal produce. Unwind by the crackling eucalyptus wood fireplace while soaking in panoramic vistas from our verdant tropical gardens. This idyllic retreat provides unparalleled access for unforgettable mountain gorilla encounters in their natural habitat.
Activities: Kigali Genocide Memorial & Museum
Situated in Kigali's Gasabo district, this profound memorial was established through a collaboration between Kigali City Council and the UK's Aegis Trust. The museum offers a deeply impactful experience - simultaneously heartbreaking, enlightening, and ultimately uplifting. It serves as both a tribute to victims and a powerful testament to Rwanda's remarkable post-genocide recovery and reconciliation.
The memorial's guided tour presents an unflinching yet educational account of this tragic history. Visitors often find it a sobering experience, particularly when reflecting that the grounds serve as the final resting place for more than 250,000 genocide victims.
Gorilla Trekking Volcanoes National Park
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to encounter Volcanoes National Park's ten habituated gorilla families. Before your trek begins, enjoy freshly brewed Rwandan coffee while our team carefully assigns you to small groups of eight, matching each visitor's fitness level. Each expedition is led by an experienced guide accompanied by two trained scouts, ensuring safety throughout your journey. Trek duration varies according to the gorillas' location - while some groups may find their assigned family within thirty minutes, others may enjoy a full day's immersive experience through the park's breathtaking landscapes.
The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
Spanning 12 lush acres bordering Volcanoes National Park, this groundbreaking conservation campus represents the future of wildlife protection. The facility showcases innovative eco-architecture built with locally sourced materials and sustainable technologies, featuring cutting-edge research laboratories, a comprehensive conservation library, and spacious conference facilities. More than just a research center, this visionary campus aims to ignite passion for wildlife conservation in every visitor, fostering lifelong dedication to protecting these magnificent creatures.