Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Cultural Gateway to Volcanoes National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Wild Compass Africa guide and briefed about your safari adventure.

If time permits, embark on a Kigali city tour including a moving visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you’ll gain insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience.

Afterward, depart on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park, located in northern Rwanda. The journey takes you through Rwanda’s famous rolling hills, lush countryside, and vibrant local communities.

Before heading to your lodge, enjoy a cultural experience at the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Centre in Kinigi. Here, you’ll witness traditional dances, music performances, and learn about Rwanda’s customs and heritage.

Later, check into your lodge near the park and relax in preparation for your first gorilla trekking experience.

Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range)
Meals: Dinner
Drinks: Drinking water provided

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park & Transfer to Lake Mutanda

After an early breakfast, proceed to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a detailed gorilla trekking briefing.

Accompanied by experienced rangers and trackers, you will hike through bamboo forests and volcanic slopes in search of a habituated gorilla family. Once located, you will spend one magical hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat — watching them feed, groom, and interact.

After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and refreshment.

Before crossing into Uganda, visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Museum in Musanze to learn about Dian Fossey’s conservation legacy and the ongoing protection of mountain gorillas.

In the afternoon, cross the Rwanda–Uganda border and continue to Lake Mutanda, a stunning crater lake at the edge of Bwindi Forest. Arrive in the evening and check into your lakeside lodge.

Accommodation: Mutanda Lake Resort (Mid-range)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drinks: Drinking water provided

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Boat Ride on Lake Mutanda

Today you trek gorillas for the second time — this time in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dense rainforest and incredible biodiversity.

After briefing at the park headquarters, begin your trek through the misty forest. The terrain can be steep and challenging, but the reward is extraordinary — another intimate one-hour encounter with a different gorilla family in a completely different ecosystem.

In the afternoon, return to Mutanda Lake Resort and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Mutanda. Surrounded by volcanic peaks and lush hills, this peaceful experience provides time to reflect on your remarkable gorilla encounters.

Accommodation: Mutanda Lake Resort (Mid-range)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drinks: Drinking water provided

Day 4: Return to Kigali & Departure

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive back to Kigali, enjoying panoramic countryside views across Uganda and Rwanda.

If you were unable to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial on Day 1, you may do so today (time permitting).

You will be transferred to Kigali International Airport in time for your international departure flight.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: None (End of Tour)