For those who want Rwanda’s finest gorilla experience delivered at the highest level of luxury and convenience, this four-day helicopter safari is the definitive option.
A Safari That Stays With You Forever
A scenic 30-minute flight from Kigali replaces the 2.5-hour road transfer to Volcanoes National Park, arriving over the mist-covered Virunga Mountains and setting the tone for everything that follows. Three nights at One & Only Gorillas’ Nest — one of the most celebrated lodges in East Africa — provide the base for gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, twin lakes kayaking, and a visit to a local cultural village. This is Rwanda at its very best.
Highlights
- Helicopter transfer from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park, 30 minutes of aerial wonder.
- 3 nights at One & Only Gorillas' Nest, Volcanoes National Park.
- Mountain gorilla trekking permit and golden monkey permit included.
- Kayaking on the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
- Cultural visit to Iby'Iwacu Village.
4 Days Rwanda Safari
Rwanda has a way of getting under your skin. Let’s explore your 4-day Rwanda volcano safari.
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, begin your journey with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide. This visit provides deep insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience.
After the tour, transfer to the airport for a scenic helicopter flight to Volcanoes National Park, offering breathtaking aerial views of Rwanda’s lush landscapes. Land at Musanze Airstrip, where a short transfer takes you to One & Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge, an exclusive retreat nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains.
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with a delicious lunch and relaxation at the lodge before heading to the Iby’ Iwacu Cultural Village. Here, immerse yourself in Rwandan traditions, interact with the local community, and experience their way of life. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay in a luxurious setting.
Day Itinerary:
Arrival at Kigali International Airport
Transfer to the Kigali Genocide Memorial
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre
Helicopter flight to Volcanoes National Park
Arrive at Musanze Airstrip and transfer to the lodge
Check in at One & Only Gorilla’s Nest
Lunch and afternoon relaxation
Visit Iby’ Iwacu Cultural Village
Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Stay:
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest
Singita Kwitonda Lodge (Alternate)
Bisate Reserve (Alternate)
Start the day with an early breakfast before transferring to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee as you prepare for the adventure. You will be assigned to one of the 10 habituated gorilla families, with groups of eight trekkers, guided by experienced park rangers and scouts.
The trekking duration varies, depending on the gorillas' location. Some families are found within 30 minutes, while others require a longer trek through the dense rainforest. Once you locate the gorillas, spend an unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat.
Return to the lodge around midday, freshen up, and enjoy a relaxing lunch. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to unwind, take in the scenic surroundings, or enjoy the lodge’s luxury amenities. Conclude the day with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay.
Day Itinerary:
06:00 – Morning breakfast
06:30 – Transfer to park headquarters for briefing
08:00 – Start gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Noon – Estimated return from the jungle
12:30 – Transfer back to the lodge
13:00 – Lunch at the lodge
15:00 – Relax for the rest of the day
19:00 – Dinner and overnight stay
Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Stay:
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest
Singita Kwitonda Lodge (Alternate)
Bisate Reserve (Alternate)
Start the day with an early breakfast before heading to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing on Golden Monkey Trekking. These rare primates, with their vibrant orange fur, are found only in select regions, making this a unique wildlife experience. The trek takes you through the lush Virunga Mountains, where energetic troops of up to 30 individuals swing through the trees, providing incredible photo opportunities.
Return to the lodge by midday, freshen up, and enjoy a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a kayaking adventure at Twin Lakes Burera and Rubondo.
Surrounded by towering hills and volcanic landscapes, these serene waters offer a scenic escape. Along the shores, observe local fishermen using traditional wooden canoes and spot diverse bird species in the tranquil environment.
End the day with dinner at the lodge and a peaceful overnight stay.
Day Itinerary:
06:00 – Morning breakfast
06:30 – Transfer to park headquarters for briefing
08:00 – Start Golden Monkey Trekking
11:30 – Estimated return from the jungle
Noon – Transfer back to the lodge
13:00 – Lunch at the lodge
15:00 – Visit Twin Lakes for kayaking
18:00 – Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Stay:
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest
Singita Kwitonda Lodge (Alternate)
Bisate Reserve (Alternate)
Start the morning with a relaxing breakfast at the lodge before preparing for your journey back to Kigali. After check-out, take a short drive to Musanze Airstrip, where you will board a scenic helicopter flight back to the capital.
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, proceed with check-in formalities for your outbound flight. This marks the end of your journey, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Rwanda’s wildlife and culture.
Day Itinerary:
08:00 – Morning breakfast
09:00 – Drive to Musanze Airstrip
10:00 – Helicopter flight to Kigali
10:30 – Arrive at Kigali International Airport
11:00 – Check-in for outbound flight
Noon– End of service
INCLUDED/EXCLUDED
INCLUDED
- 3 nights at One & Only Gorillas' Nest (full board)
- Return helicopter flight Kigali–Musanze
- Mountain gorilla trekking permit (USD 1,500 pp)
- Golden monkey trekking permit (USD 100 pp)
- Twin Lakes kayaking excursion
- Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village visit
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- All park and entrance fees
- Airport transfers in Kigali
EXCLUDED
- International flights and visa fees
- All items of a personal nature
- Optional activities not in the itinerary
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel and medical insurance
- Personal drinks and laundry
- Optional spa treatments and premium beverages
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Return helicopter flights between Kigali and Musanze Airstrip (operated by Akagera Aviation, approximately 30 minutes each way) are included in this package. The flights add an exceptional dimension to the experience, offering aerial views of Rwanda’s landscapes that are impossible to replicate from the road.
One & Only Gorillas’ Nest is one of the most celebrated properties in East Africa. Located in a natural forest setting near the base of the Virunga Mountains, it features luxury cottages with private terraces and volcano views, an outstanding restaurant, a spa, and a team widely regarded as among the best in Rwanda. It is the natural home base for a luxury gorilla trekking experience.
The standard itinerary includes one gorilla trek on Day 2. A second trek can be arranged for Day 3 (subject to permit availability) in place of the golden monkey tracking, at an additional cost of USD 1,500 per person. Inform La Pisada Africa Safaris at the time of booking if you would prefer a double gorilla trekking itinerary.
Lakes Burera and Ruhondo are a pair of volcanic crater lakes in northern Rwanda, separated by a narrow strip of land near the town of Musanze. Framed by the Virunga peaks and surrounded by terraced hillsides, they are among the most scenic landscapes in the country. Kayaking or canoeing on their calm waters is a wonderful contrast to the forest intensity of the gorilla trek.
Yes, to a reasonable extent. The gorilla trek can be challenging on steep terrain, but guides adjust the pace to the group, and porters are available to assist. Those with mobility concerns should discuss this with La Pisada Africa Safaris in advance, as some gorilla families are assigned to more accessible routes.
