3 Days Rwanda Gorilla and Dian Fossey Safari

Most Rwanda gorilla trips stop at the trek itself. This Rwanda Gorilla and Dian Fossey Safari adds a second story to the trip: a hike to the grave of Dian Fossey, the primatologist whose research and advocacy shaped mountain gorilla conservation in Rwanda, alongside a full day dedicated to the gorillas she worked to protect.

Three days gives you a more relaxed pace than a same-day trek, with a cultural stop built into the schedule rather than a rushed turnaround.

Day 1: Arrive at Kigali International Airport and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

On arrival, your driver-guide meets you and transfers you to Volcanoes National Park, roughly 2 to 2.5 hours away. Check in at your lodge in the afternoon and settle in ahead of tomorrow's trek.

Overnight: lodge near Volcanoes National Park (full board).

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village Visit

After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters in Kinigi for registration and the mandatory briefing, typically starting around 7:00 AM, where trekking groups are assigned their gorilla family. The trek can run from 2 to 6 hours depending on the family's location that day, followed by a strictly timed hour in their company.

Most treks conclude by early afternoon, leaving time for a visit to the nearby Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village. Founded by former gorilla poachers who now work in conservation, the village shares traditional Rwandan dance, storytelling, and craft demonstrations just a short drive from the park gate.

Overnight: lodge near Volcanoes National Park (full board).

Day 3: Hike to Dian Fossey's Grave and Drive Back to Kigali

After breakfast, set out on the hike to Karisoke Research Center, climbing through bamboo forest on the lower slopes of the Virunga volcanoes. This is Fossey's former research camp and burial site, alongside several of the gorillas she studied, and the hike typically takes 2 to 3 hours each way. Afterward, begin the drive back to Kigali, arriving in time for your onward flight.

Rwanda's gorilla permit currently costs USD 1,500 per person and the Dian Fossey hike permit USD 75 per person, both issued by the Rwanda Development Board, the official body managing Volcanoes National Park. Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village entrance runs roughly USD 35 to 70 per person depending on the activities chosen. The minimum age for both gorilla trekking and the Dian Fossey hike is 15.

Book This Rwanda Gorilla and Dian Fossey Safari

Ready for gorilla trekking with real time to rest and trace Dian Fossey's story? Browse more itineraries, tell us what you have in mind through Build My Safari, or contact us directly to check permit availability for your dates.

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