Unlike our other Rwanda itineraries, this one gives Kigali two full dedicated days — one on arrival, one on departure — rather than treating the city purely as a transit point, alongside the gorilla trek itself in Volcanoes National Park.
Detailed Itinerary
DAY 1
Your driver-guide meets you at Kigali International Airport, and rather than a rest day, this one is built around exploring the capital properly: the Kigali Genocide Memorial first, then Kimironko Market for a genuine slice of everyday city life, and a stop at a contemporary art or craft cooperative in the afternoon.
Arrive Kigali, Full City Day
Accommodation Options
BudgetDiscover Rwanda Youth Hostel
Mid-rangeUbumwe Grande Hotel
LuxuryKigali Serena Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 2
The drive to Kinigi covers barely two hours on well-maintained roads, climbing through Rwanda’s terraced “thousand hills” countryside. Arrival by early-to-mid afternoon, the Virunga volcanoes visible from most lodges here, in time for an evening trekking briefing.
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation Options
BudgetKinigi Guest House
Mid-rangeMountain Gorilla View Lodge
LuxuryVirunga Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3
A 6am wake-up for the short drive to park headquarters, the 7am briefing opening with a performance by the Kinigi intore dancers before groups of up to eight are assigned to specific families, then the trek itself through increasingly misty forest, and the strict hour with your gorilla family.
Gorilla Trekking
Accommodation
As above
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4
A late-morning drive back to Kigali, arriving with the afternoon free for a second round of exploring — a different craft market, a coffee cooperative visit, or simply resting after the trek before your final night in the city.
Return to Kigali, Second City Day
Accommodation Options
BudgetDiscover Rwanda Youth Hostel
Mid-rangeUbumwe Grande Hotel
LuxuryKigali Serena Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5
Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.
Departure
Meals: Breakfast
Permits & Costs
| Gorilla trekking permit | $1,500 per person |
| Kigali Genocide Memorial | Free entry, donations welcome |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Travellers who want genuine time in Kigali itself, not just a transit stop, alongside the gorilla trek — a good fit for anyone with a real interest in Rwanda’s recent history and culture.Tour Includes
- Travel in a comfortable vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Gorilla trekking permit
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- City tour activities
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Visas
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance