One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 29 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour worth booking?
One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour is a 6-hour experience in Kigali, Rwanda, from $280 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 29 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 74 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (29)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $280 per person
Thinking about a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda? Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure deep in misty forests, where encounters with mountain giants become unforgettable memories. This One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking with Dian Fossey or Guardians takes you into Volcanoes National Park for a journey tracking endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Coming face-to-face with a mountain gorilla is raw, wild, and deeply moving many say it’s life changing. You’ll be close enough to hear their breath, smell their earthy scent, and feel a powerful connection we share 98% of their DNA. Enjoy an early departure from Kigali on a scenic 2–2.5 hour drive in a premium 4×4 safari vehicle with Wi-Fi and charging ports. Your experience includes Rwanda’s conservation story with a visit to the Ellen Campus or the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, a former ex-poachers’ community showcasing Rwanda’s culture & transformation. Perfect for a short but unforgettable African adventure.
What you get
About this experience
Thinking about a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda? Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure deep in misty forests, where encounters with mountain giants become unforgettable memories. This One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking with Dian Fossey or Guardians takes you into Volcanoes National Park for a journey tracking endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Coming face-to-face with a mountain gorilla is raw, wild, and deeply moving many say it’s life changing. You’ll be close enough to hear their breath, smell their earthy scent, and feel a powerful connection we share 98% of their DNA. Enjoy an early departure from Kigali on a scenic 2–2.5 hour drive in a premium 4×4 safari vehicle with Wi-Fi and charging ports. Your experience includes Rwanda’s conservation story with a visit to the Ellen Campus or the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, a former ex-poachers’ community showcasing Rwanda’s culture & transformation. Perfect for a short but unforgettable African adventure.
What's included
Included
- • Optional Visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund or Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village.
- • Private Transport: 4x4 Safari vehicle, 4x4 Safari Car
- • Pick-up and drop-off anywhere in Kigali City and or Kigali airport
- •Stay Connected On Board with Wi-Fi and Power Charging System for your devices & comfortable Journey
- • Unforgettable photo opportunities that last a lifetime – every moment is wild and wonderful.
- • Gorilla Trekking Certificate By Afri Safaris
- • Professional driver guide by Afri Safaris
- • Assistance with the tourist permit application process for gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
- • Lunch • Plenty of Water • Coffee (Beverages).
Not included
- • Gorilla permit costs vary by nationality. Permits are limited daily & must be purchased in advance
- • Tips • Porter fees •Personal expenses
- • Everything else not mentioned in the inclusions
What you'll see and do
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
A transfer, begins & ends in Kigali SIMPLE ITINERARY: You should wake up early & order for breakfast as you wait for the driver to pick you up. Afri Safaris driver guide will take you to the RDB headquarter in Kinigi for briefing by 7:00am. This briefing is very important and is where you will meet other tourists and Rangers who will be leading you to the forest. The briefing covers many topics but the most important is how to behave around the gorillas, what to expect and what to carry along while tracking the gorillas. You will be assigned a gorilla family taking into consideration your overall fitness and age. This is because some of the gorilla groups are located deeper in the forest hence requiring more hours of trekking. Porters are available to help you with extra luggage. Park Rangers will lead you into the forest to track the primates. Trekking takes btn 2 to 6 hours. After an hour of observing the mountain gorillas, our Guide will be waiting for you at the starting point.
360 minutes here · Admission not included
Iby'iwacu Cultural Village
After Gorilla trekking, then you will be transferred to Iby'iwacu cultural village. Iby'iwacu Cultural Village is a village of ex-poachers, those previously stealing the gorillas due to poverty, they now stopped poaching. The Iby’iwacu cultural village is one of the leading cultural attractions in Rwanda. The Village combines all of Rwanda’s known cultural traditions, people & history into one place for display & a personal experience. International visitors get to see what life was in a typical African village setting – the lifestyle, houses, traditional dances, dressing code, food, herbs & how the ancient kingdoms were generally organized. Tourists are given an opportunity to learn ancient hunting skills, try weaving baskets/mats, carpentry. This unique experience has won the hearts of many visitors who wish to indulge in the culture of Rwanda’s native community after seeing gorillas. Village offers an opportunities to purchase local craft, gifts & souvenir to show friends back home.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund in Rwanda is a fantastic place for those interested in wildlife conservation, gorillas, and the legacy of Dian Fossey. It's a hub for education, research, and conservation efforts, particularly focused on the endangered mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park region. 1. Learn About Gorillas and Conservation The campus has educational exhibits that provide in-depth information about gorilla behavior, the history of Dian Fossey's work, and the current conservation efforts to protect mountain gorillas. You can explore interactive displays that highlight the work of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and its impact on protecting gorillas and their habitat. 2. Visit the Gorilla Research Center You can get an up-close look at the research efforts dedicated to understanding gorilla behavior, health, & conservation challenges. This includes a detailed look at how gorilla tracking, monitoring, & anti-poaching efforts are managed.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Stop by Migano Cafe in Musanze for the lunch (•Hot lunch of your choice on the food menu at Migano Cafe Musanze)
60 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 60 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Gorilla Trek & Guardians Villa
Gorilla Trek & Rwandan Culture: Experience a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Rwanda’s majestic mountain gorillas World-class: followed by an immersive celebration of vibrant Rwandan culture, traditions, music, and dance. Duration: 10 hours Lunch and drinks are included Kigali - Volcanoes National P: Kigali - Musanze - Volcanoes National Park 4WD: Safari Vehicle, SUV Pickup included
Gorilla trek & Dian Fossey Exp
Gorilla Trek & Dian Fossey Leg: Experience a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Rwanda’s mountain gorillas World-class: followed by an inspiring visit exploring Dian Fossey’s remarkable legacy in gorilla conservation. Duration: 10 hours Lunch and beverages included Kigali - Volcanoes National P: Kigali - Musanze - Volcanoes National Park 4WD: Safari vehicle, SUV Pickup included
Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla Trekking Experience: Journey into Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas World-class: in their natural habitat. Ideal for travelers with limited time, this day trip includes gorilla trekking, lunch, and return Duration: 8 hours Lunch and beverages included: Enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter, followed by lunch and a comfortable return to Kigali. Kigali – Volcanoes National P: Kigali – Musanze – Volcanoes National Park – Kigali 4WD safari vehicle or SUV Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, fr
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Afri Safaris
Know before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 29 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Organization
5 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Physical effort
3 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
29 verified traveler reviews for One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Afri Safaris rocks!
This was one of the most exciting and enjoyable experiences i have had! The organisation was excellent, my guide was helpful, going out of his way to assist and make my tour special. I would 100% recommend Afri Safaris to everyone visiting Rwanda.
Response from the operator: Dear Valued Guest, Thank you for your wonderful review and recommendation! We are delighted that you enjoyed your tour and that our guide’s care and assistance made your experience special. It was a pleasure welcoming you, and we hope to see you again for another unforgettable adventure in Rwanda. Best regards, Afri Safaris Team
via Tripadvisor
Gorilla trekking day tour
This was a full day tour to see the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and visit the Gorilla Guardians community. I was lucky enough for Afri Safaris to help me get a gorilla permit in a short period of time during my stay so I would be able to go. My driver was kind and took good care that we arrived safely and it was nice to have cold drinks and WiFi in the car. I highly recommend this once in a lifetime experience!
Response from the operator: Dear Zoe, Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience! We’re delighted that Afri Safaris could secure your gorilla permit at short notice and make your visit to Volcanoes National Park possible. It’s lovely to hear that your driver ensured a safe, comfortable journey and that you enjoyed the cold drinks and WiFi along the way. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope your gorilla trek and visit to the Gorilla Guardians community remain unforgettable memories. We would be honored to welcome you back to Rwanda for another adventure! Warm regards, Afri Safaris Team
via Viator
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Gorilla Trek with Elysee
Our one-day gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda was truly the highlight of our trip! The hike was definitely challenging, with steep and muddy trails, but every step was worth it. We were incredibly lucky to visit the Susa gorilla family, and seeing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat was an unforgettable experience. Watching them interact so closely, especially the silverback calmly leading the family, was both exciting and humbling. It was a moment we'll never forget. A huge thank you to our guide, Elysee, who took great care of us throughout the day. He was friendly, professional, and made sure everything went smoothly from the early morning pickup to the drive back. His encouragement and thoughtful arrangements made the long day much more enjoyable. If you're visiting Rwanda, don't miss this incredible adventure. It's physically demanding, but the reward of meeting the mountain gorillas is beyond words. Highly recommended!
Response from the operator: Dear Guest, Thank you for your wonderful review and for choosing Afri Safaris. We are delighted that your gorilla trekking experience was the highlight of your trip and that meeting the Susa gorilla family created such unforgettable memories. Your kind words about Elysee are greatly appreciated, and we will be sure to share them with him. Thank you for your recommendation—we look forward to welcoming you back to Rwanda for another incredible adventure. Warm regards, The Afri Safaris Team
via Tripadvisor
Gorilla trek is an art
Gorilla trekking was an incredible adventure!! The group was well organized and the trek was phenomenal! I highly recommend doing with group our driver Christian was perfection !!!
Response from the operator: Dear Reco, Thank you for your wonderful review! We are delighted to hear that your gorilla trekking experience was such an incredible adventure. It's great to know that you found the trip well organized and the trek phenomenal. We will be sure to pass your kind words on to Christian, who will be thrilled to hear that he made your experience so memorable. Thank you for choosing Afri Safaris. We hope to welcome you back to Rwanda for another adventure soon! Warm regards, Afri Safaris Team
via Tripadvisor
Outstanding on many levels
Outstanding on every level, the gorilla trek at Volcanoes National Park with AfriSafari is an excellent value. We enjoyed a private ride in a comfortable Toyota 4x4 with WiFi connectivity, recharge unit, refreshments. But the best part is the staff and the people who provided support, from planning, to transportation and the park rangers, trackers, spotters, and porters. Each one was friendly, attentive, helpful and knowledgeable. Our personal guide and driver Elysée offered insights along the way and by the end of the roughly 12 hour expedition, after great conversation and s few laughs, we can only say “urakoze cyane”thank you very very much. The field tracker and conservationist John also deserves kudos for his professionalism and wit, an excellent teacher and guide who provided us the tools (and the proper pronunciation) to communicate with our closest evolutionary cousins. The porters were patient and always there, as members of our small group (7) needed assistance with boots stuck in the mud, detached soles and other minor mishaps. This group is top notch and then there is the extraordinary encounter with the gorillas: we saw a newborn and several mothers with their infants and children as well as silverback leader of his group. We had a delicious hot lunch at an excellent local restaurant on the return, enjoying our meal as a team cleaned our boots. Needless to say we very highly recommend the tour and congratulate the organizers for jobs well done!
Response from the operator: Dear Anthony, Thank you so much for your wonderful and detailed review. We are truly honored to hear that your gorilla trekking experience at Volcanoes National Park with Afri Safaris was outstanding on every level. Your kind words about our team, especially Elysée, John, the park staff, trackers, and porters, mean a lot to us. We are delighted that their professionalism, warmth, and dedication helped make your journey both comfortable and unforgettable. Seeing the gorillas up close, including the newborn and silverback, is truly a magical experience, and we are so happy you were able to create such special memories with us. Murakoze cyane, Anthony, for choosing Afri Safaris and for highly recommending our services. We hope to welcome you back to Rwanda again in the future for another incredible adventure! Warm regards, Afri Safaris Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $280 to $555
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 10
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Afri Safaris, who run 9 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.7.
See everything Afri Safaris runsWhy this scores 74
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kigali.
How much does One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour cost?
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Prices start at $280 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kigali usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour take?
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Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Kigali is not rushed.
Is One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 29 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Kigali, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour?
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Around 10 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Kigali can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Kigali and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Kigali within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Kigali?
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On Outty we rank every Kigali experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include One-day Akagera National Park Game Drive with a Choice 4x4, One Day Akagera Wildlife Safari, Kigali City Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Kigali?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Kigali?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour?
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Included: • Optional Visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund or Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village; • Private Transport: 4x4 Safari vehicle, 4x4 Safari Car; • Pick-up and drop-off anywhere in Kigali City and or Kigali airport; •Stay Connected On Board with Wi-Fi and Power Charging System for your devices & comfortab; and • Unforgettable photo opportunities that last a lifetime – every moment is wild and wonder. Not included: • Gorilla permit costs vary by nationality. Permits are limited daily & must be purchased; • Tips • Porter fees •Personal expenses; and • Everything else not mentioned in the inclusions. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 37 listed pickup locations in and around Kigali. Be ready about 60 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour offered in?
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It is offered in English and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Kigali. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour?
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Across 29 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, organization, value for money. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
What booking options are available for One Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Gorilla Trek & Guardians Villa, Gorilla trek & Dian Fossey Exp, Mountain Gorilla Trekking. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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