5-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Mount Karisimbi Hiking Tour

Expect a memorable safari experience in Rwanda with this 5-Day Rwanda Gorillas & Karisimbi Tour Itinerary. One of Rwanda’s most important national parks is Volcanoes National Park, located in the north of the country and known for its main attractions.

Volcanoes National Park lies at the base of the Virunga Mountain range, which is home to Mount Karisimbi, the 11th tallest mountain in Africa with snow-covered peaks.

The park borders Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The hike to Mount Karisimbi’s summit takes about two days for the round trip, combining gorilla trekking with mountain climbing.

Optional activities include visiting Musanze Caves and learning about local culture.

5-Day Rwanda Gorillas & Karisimbi Tour Highlights

• Day 1: Pickup & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
• Day 2: Gorilla Trekking & Optional Cultural Visit
• Day 3: Climb Mount Karisimbi
• Day 4: Descend Mount Karisimbi
• Day 5: Transfer to Kigali

Detailed 5-Day Rwanda Gorillas & Karisimbi Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Pickup & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport or another convenient place, our driver-guide will warmly welcome you.

You will travel to Volcanoes National Park to meet the world’s mountain gorillas.

The drive takes about two to three hours and offers views of green hills and forests. After checking in at the lodge, enjoy lunch.

In the evening, you may visit Musanze Caves if you wish. Dinner and rest end the day.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking & Optional Cultural Visit

Start early with breakfast at the lodge. Prepare for gorilla trekking by packing lunch, then drive to Volcanoes National Park for a briefing before the trek.

Ranger guides will assign you to a gorilla group and explain the rules for the hike. Gorillas share 98% of their DNA with humans, making them our closest relatives.

The trek can last from 1 to 8 hours depending on how fast you move and where the gorillas are.

Spend one hour observing and taking pictures of the gorillas. Enjoy lunch in the forest before returning to the lodge with stories of your adventure.

You may also see other primates, birds, and animals during the trek. Relax at the lodge with dinner and overnight rest.

Day 3: Climb Mount Karisimbi

Mount Karisimbi is one of five mountains in Volcanoes National Park. The climb takes at least two days and needs a moderate level of fitness.

After a briefing at the mountain base, begin the six-hour hike to the base camp at 3,700 meters above sea level. Your guide will lead the way and point out sights and nearby mountains.

Stop for lunch on the way and continue to the campsite for dinner and rest.

Day 4: Descend Mount Karisimbi

After a night at the campsite, enjoy a good breakfast before starting the four-hour descent. The trail offers lovely views of the surrounding nature.

Reach the summit for photos, then return to the starting point where your driver-guide will meet you. Arrive back at the lodge in time for lunch and relaxation.

Spend the rest of the day at leisure and enjoy dinner.

Day 5: Transfer to Kigali

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the lodge, then check out for the two-hour drive to Kigali city or the airport. You can choose to explore Kigali, visit local markets for souvenirs, the genocide memorial, and other historic places. Have lunch in the city before heading to the airport for your flight home.

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