- Seguku Katale. Kampala
2 Days Gorilla Trek & Bisoke Hike
Rwanda, also known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. This 2-day adventure combines gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park with a challenging yet rewarding hike up Mount Bisoke. Perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike, this itinerary offers an intimate encounter with one of the world’s most endangered species and a chance to conquer one of the Virunga volcanoes.(2 Days Gorilla Trek)
Day 1: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a pick-up from your hotel in Kigali. The drive to Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, takes approximately two hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through the picturesque countryside, with its rolling hills, lush greenery, and terraced farmlands.
Upon arrival at the park headquarters in Kinigi, you will join other trekkers for a briefing session conducted by the park rangers. Here, you will be briefed on the gorilla trekking rules and regulations, which are essential for both your safety and the protection of the gorillas. With over 10 habituated gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park, the guides will assign you to a group based on your fitness level and preferences.
The trek to find the gorillas can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. As you trek through the dense bamboo forests, the anticipation builds with each step. The terrain can be steep and muddy, but the reward of encountering a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is worth every effort. These gentle giants share 98% of their DNA with humans, and observing them up close is an awe-inspiring experience.
Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing their behaviors—watching the playful young ones, the protective silverbacks, and the nurturing mothers. The opportunity to see these endangered creatures in the wild is a privilege that few get to experience.
After the trek, return to the park headquarters where you’ll be awarded a certificate for your participation in this conservation effort. Enjoy lunch and relax at your lodge or hotel, reflecting on the once-in-a-lifetime experience of gorilla trekking.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Bisate Lodge or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
- Midrange: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge or Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
- Budget: Kinigi Guest House or Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
Day 2: Mount Bisoke Hike
On the second day of your Rwandan adventure, prepare for an early start to conquer Mount Bisoke. Standing at 3,711 meters, this dormant volcano is part of the Virunga Mountain range that straddles the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The hike is challenging but incredibly rewarding, offering stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in the volcanic landscapes.
After an early breakfast, you will return to the park headquarters for a briefing on the Bisoke hike. The hike typically starts at 7:00 AM and lasts between 4-6 hours, depending on your pace and weather conditions. You will be accompanied by experienced guides and armed park rangers to ensure your safety throughout the journey.
The ascent begins with a trek through the lower slopes of the volcano, which are covered in thick rainforest and bamboo groves. As you climb higher, the landscape transforms into afro-alpine vegetation, with giant lobelias and unique plant species dotting the terrain. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as the park is home to golden monkeys, forest elephants, and various bird species.
The highlight of the hike is reaching the summit, where you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of the crater lake. This stunning body of water, nestled in the heart of the volcano, is often shrouded in mist, adding to the ethereal atmosphere. From the top, you’ll also be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Virunga mountains, stretching across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Congo.
After taking in the views and enjoying a well-deserved break at the summit, begin your descent back to the park headquarters. The descent can be slippery, especially if it has rained, so take your time and enjoy the surroundings as you make your way back down.
Once you return to the base, you’ll have lunch at a nearby lodge before embarking on the return journey to Kigali. The scenic drive back to the capital offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on your incredible two-day adventure, filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters and stunning volcanic landscapes.(2 Days Gorilla Trek)
Accommodation Options:
- For this short adventure, it’s ideal to spend the previous night at a lodge near Volcanoes National Park or stay in Kigali for easy access to the park the next morning.
This 2-day adventure offers an extraordinary glimpse into Rwanda’s natural beauty, combining the thrilling experience of gorilla trekking with the challenging yet rewarding Mount Bisoke hike. Whether you’re captivated by the majesty of the mountain gorillas or inspired by the stunning volcanic landscapes, this trip promises memories that will last a lifetime. Rwanda’s wilderness beckons, and with it, a profound connection to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring creatures and landscapes.(2 Days Gorilla Trek)
