2 Days Golden Monkeys & Bwindi Gorilla Trek
Golden Monkeys & Bwindi Gorillas
Golden Monkeys & Bwindi Gorillas Safari Overview
Golden Monkeys & Bwindi Gorillas safari offers an unforgettable two-day primate adventure across Rwanda and Uganda. This short but rewarding journey begins with golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park, followed by a once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla encounter in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Designed for travelers with limited time, the tour combines scenic volcanic landscapes, ancient rainforests, and close encounters with two of Africa’s most iconic primates.
Golden Monkeys Trekking in Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
The Golden Monkeys & Bwindi Gorillas experience starts in Volcanoes National Park, located in northwestern Rwanda and part of the Virunga Conservation Area. The park is home to the endangered golden monkeys that inhabit bamboo forests along the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Golden monkey trekking is relatively easy and suitable for most fitness levels. The activity offers breathtaking views and rewarding wildlife photography opportunities.
Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda
The second highlight of the Golden Monkeys & Bwindi Gorillas safari takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most biodiverse rainforests. Bwindi protects over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population and hosts 12 habituated gorilla families available for tourism.
The forest ecosystem is more than 25,000 years old and supports over 120 mammal species, 10 primates, 310 butterfly species, and exceptional birdlife, making Bwindi a top destination for both primate tracking and birdwatching.
Day 1-: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Golden Monkey Trek & Transfer to Bwindi (Uganda)
You will be met by your professional driver-guide in Kigali at 05:00 am and depart for Volcanoes National Park, arriving at the Kinigi park headquarters by 07:00 am. After registration and a short briefing by park rangers, you will proceed to the trailhead for golden monkey trekking.
The trek leads through bamboo forests in the lower slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes. The terrain is generally gentle, making this activity accessible and enjoyable. Once the golden monkeys are located, you will spend one full hour observing their feeding habits, social interactions, and playful movements as they leap through bamboo stalks and occasionally venture toward nearby farmlands.
After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch, then begin the scenic drive toward the Uganda border. Upon clearing immigration formalities, continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
Dinner and overnight stay
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: Broadbill Forest Camp /Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge
- Mid-Range: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge /Icumbi Hotel / Gorilla Mist Camp
Day 2-:Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Transfer Back to Kigali
After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a 07:45 am briefing on gorilla trekking rules and safety guidelines. Accompanied by experienced rangers, you will trek through dense forest vegetation, navigating animal trails in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.
The trek can last between 1 to 8 hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas. Once found, you will spend one unforgettable hour in close proximity to these gentle giants, observing their behavior, family dynamics, and daily routines.
After the trek, begin your return journey to Kigali with lunch en route, arriving at Kigali International Airport in time for your evening departure flight.
Golden Monkeys & Bwindi Gorillas Safari Inclusions
- Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Gorilla trekking permit (USD 800 per person)
- Golden monkey trekking permit (USD 100 per person)
- Park entrance fees
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- Full board accommodation
- All meals during the tour
Golden Monkeys & Bwindi Gorillas Safari Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Additional accommodation before or after the tour
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees)
- Drinks and alcoholic beverages