Kigali & Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Trekking
A short itinerary from Kigali to Kinigi, tracking mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
The most popular short route in Rwanda: visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial on the first day before heading north, track mountain gorillas on the second day, and see golden monkeys on the third day before returning to Kigali for an evening flight. This fast-paced tour focuses on the core experiences of Volcanoes National Park, skipping Lake Kivu and the southern region. Ideal for first-time visitors with limited time whose primary goal is gorilla trekking.
Trekking is available year-round. Trails can be muddy and slippery during the rainy seasons (March–May and October–November). Gorilla permits must be booked well in advance.
Day by day
Day 1 · Genocide Memorial and North to Kinigi
Kigali（Kigali Genocide Memorial、Kimironko Market） → Musanze & Volcanoes National Park
Spend the morning in Kigali, and take a chartered car north to Kinigi in the afternoon (approx. 2.5–3 hours).
The morning of the last Saturday of every month is Umuganda (community work day), during which local transport is restricted.
Stay: Kinigi
Day 2 · Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Musanze & Volcanoes National Park（Mountain Gorilla Trekking、Gorilla Guardians Village (Iby'Iwacu)）
Arrive at the Kinigi park headquarters before 7:00 AM for briefing and grouping, then drive to the trailhead to start the trek (takes 1–6 hours round trip).
The minimum age limit is 15. You will spend about 1 hour with the gorillas. Porters are available for hire.
Stay: Kinigi
Day 3 · Golden Monkeys and Return to Kigali
Musanze & Volcanoes National Park（Golden Monkey Trekking） → Kigali
Track golden monkeys in the park for about 2–3 hours in the morning, then take a chartered car back to Kigali in the afternoon (approx. 2.5 hours).
It is best to book a departure flight scheduled for late evening to allow plenty of buffer time on the road.