2 Days 1 Night Rwanda Gorilla Tour

4.9/5

Based on 450+ reviews

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4.9/5

Based on 45+ reviews

2 Days 1 Night Rwanda Gorilla Tour

October 25, 2025

2 Days 1 Night Rwanda Gorilla Tour

This 2-day Rwanda gorilla tour is the perfect tour to Visit Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda. This tour typically involves arrival in Kigali and Kigali city tour before the transfer to Volcanoes National Park on Day 1, the gorilla trek on the morning of Day 2, and transfer back to Kigali for departure. This package is ideal for travellers with limited time who want to focus specifically on the gorilla encounter in Rwanda.

Typical Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Kigali city tour later Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
- Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Kigali International Airport (KGL) or be picked up from your Kigali hotel by your tour guide.
- Optional Activity: Take a brief Kigali city tour, including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, Kimironko Market, local craft markets and art centres.
- Travel: Enjoy a scenic 2-3 hour drive to Volcanoes National Park in the Musanze area, passing through Rwanda's signature "land of a thousand hills" landscape.
- Evening: Check into your lodge for dinner and briefing from your guide about tomorrow’s gorilla trek and rest to prepare for the early morning trek the next day.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Departure
- Early Morning: After an early breakfast around 6:30 am, transfer to the park headquarters in Kinigi for a compulsory briefing on gorilla trekking rules and an allocation of a gorilla family and guide.
- The Trek: Begin the guided hike into the forest. The trek can range from 30 minutes to over 7 hours, depending on the location and movement of the assigned gorilla family.
- The Encounter: Once the gorillas are located, you will spend a memorable one hour observing them in their natural habitat, taking photos (without flash), and enjoying their behaviour.
- Afternoon: Trek back to the park headquarters, meet your driver-guide, have lunch either packed or at the lodge, and drive back to Kigali.
- Departure: The guide will drop you off at the Kigali International Airport for your evening departure flight or at your hotel depending on your next program. It is recommended that your flight is not before 7:00 pm to allow sufficient time after the trek.

Cost and Inclusions

The primary cost is the non-refundable gorilla permit, which costs USD $1,500 per person from Rwanda Development Board.

Package Inclusions typically cover:

One gorilla trekking permit.
Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary (e.g., 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner)
Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle and fuel
Services of an experienced English-speaking driver/guide
Bottled drinking water in the vehicle during the tour

Exclusions usually are:

International airfares and visas
Personal expenses (tips, beverages, laundry, etc.)
Optional activities (e.g., golden monkey tracking, cultural village visits)
Travel insurance

What to consider for your 2 Days 1 Night Rwanda Gorilla Tour

Book in Advance: Gorilla permits must be booked several months in advance with the trusted tour company like Encounter Africa safaris, especially during peak season. The peak seasons when gorilla permits are limited are (June- August and December - February).
Physical Fitness: The trek involves hiking through potentially steep, muddy, and thick forest terrain, which requires a moderate level of fitness.
Health and Safety: Ensure to pack a personal first-aid kit, sunscreen and insect repellent. Do not forget your yellow fever vaccination card, as it is often required.
Packing List: Essentials include waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support, long-sleeved shirts, trousers, and carry rain gear, water, and packed snacks.
Hire a Porter: Porters are available for hire to carry your bag or assist you on the trek. Through hiring Porters, you are contributing towards supporting the local community in the area.
Flash Photography is Prohibited: Do not use flash when taking photos of the gorillas. Flash triggers defensive and startled reactions in gorillas, so be careful to check your phone flash before taking any pictures or videos.
Documents: Ensure that you carry your passport, yellow fever card, visa and any other vaccination certificates.
Alternative tours: Since Rwanda is an exclusive destination, opting for a similar tour starting from Kigali but trekking mountain gorillas in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a less expensive option since the gorilla permit cost is less in Uganda. The gorilla trekking permit costs $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, $500 for Rest of Africa and 300,000 Uganda shillings for East African citizens.
Accommodation: Your safari package will include one night's stay near Volcanoes National Park. Accommodation options usually range from budget to Luxury, such as Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.

Best time to Visit

Dry season: The dry season is from June to September and December to February. These months are generally considered the best for the gorilla trekking experience, though the gorilla trekking experience is still possible all year round.

For more information, kindly get in touch with our team.

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      Excellent rating  
 Based on 473 reviews 
    
  
 
 
      Verified Cannot think of the words. Awe inspiring and empowering
All I can say is wow, but I will say a lot more. From the first contact with Denis at HQ at the numerous enquires and changes along the way this group at Encounter Africa Safaris have been fantastic. Then touching base with Godwin Amanya at Kisoro to do the Gorilla experience was awesome. What a great guy and host and I will never forget his suggestion to go and visit the local village and the Batwa community. Truly inspiring❤️❤️❤️
     
   Stephen Davis 
 4 November 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Gorilla/chimpanzee trekking
We took a 14-day tour of Uganda – with gorilla and chimpanzee trekking – and are absolutely thrilled! The whole organization was perfect from start to finish. Everything went smoothly: Transfers, accommodation, meals and activities were excellently coordinated.The highlight was of course the encounters with the gorillas in Bwindi National Park and the chimpanzees in Kibale Forest – an unforgettable experience we will never forget.Our guide deserves special praise. He was not only extremely competent and experienced, but also incredibly friendly, helpful and flexible. Thanks to his warm nature we felt safe and well looked after throughout the trip. He told us a lot about nature, wildlife and life in Uganda and made the trip very special.We can fully recommend this tour – it was a perfectly organized, varied and unforgettable trip through a beautiful country with warm people.
     
   Patrick F 
 25 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified The trip of a lifetime.
This was the adventure of a lifetime. Being able to be so close to these majestic animals in their natural habitat was breathtaking. Our trip was only two days in duration and in hindsight I would have loved to have done a two day trip. Our trek into the forest was a relatively short one and with only eight people in the group was just the perfect number.Our driver/ guide Jason was the perfect host being so knowledgeable about the gorillas and the local communities surrounding the forest. Our consultant Denis whom we communicated with from the very start of of this experience was nothing short of excellent!! The communication at all times was professional, informative and quick. At times during our hour spent with the gorilla family I had to pinch myself to remind me that this was actually for real and not some excellent wildlife documentary. Words and pictures don’t really convey the remarkable experience that this was. If you are reading this then I would encourage you to have this experience for yourself. Encounter Africa Safaris we’re 5 star from begin to end.
     
   Donald A 
 23 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Solo Female Traveler in Uganda - Exceptional experience while feeling safe
Being a solo female traveler, I felt incredibly cared for in both the planning and the actual vacation. Denis and the Encounter Africa Safari Team helped me decide on how to book my trip within my budget and with hotels that don't penalize you for staying alone. Beyond that, they provided last-minute changes (about a week before) to what I wanted to see. When my driver arrived, it was a VERY early transfer from a different tour group in the high Bwindi Mountains. Huge shout out to Patrick (my driver), he was very knowledgeable, and has such PASSION for what he does. Not as someone who just bogs you down with all the information in his head (which he was able to answer all my many, many, many many questions) but truly wants to know what would make your vacation the BEST one, what you care about seeing, and provides a view of Uganda through a local's eyes and why it is beautiful to them. He helped me see beyond just the incredible experiences of the Safaris, Nile, Kazinga Channel, and White Water Rafting - but also the people, locations that are off the beaten path, and what truly makes Uganda special and unique in so many ways. I hope to return soon! Thank you for making this investment in memories worth every penny, and for helping me feel safe and respected by both the company staff and every person in the hotels and those we met along the way.
     
   Culture Trekking 
 21 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Fantastic tour
We had the most amazing experience with Encounter Safaris. Denis understood all our requirements and planned the perfect trip for us. Patrick was the best guide (I wish we could bottle his laugh and take it back to England). He was super knowledgeable, answered all our questions and made us feel really comfortable and relaxed.I would definitely recommend Encounter safaris to friends and family and we REALLY hope to be back.
     
   Laura22015 
 11 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Best trip ever
Best tour of my life!!! Very organized and my transportation Godwin was amazing. I learned so much about Rwanda and Uganda before the trip even started. When we did the hike, I felt very safe due to the guides and rangers and they were all very knowledgeable. Worth every penny
     
   Jordan Spriggs 
 26 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified An Amazing Safari Experience in Uganda
This was my very first safari in Uganda and it was truly unforgettable. Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes are simply breathtaking, and every day felt like a new adventure.A special thank you to our guide Patrick, who was absolutely outstanding – knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate. He made the whole experience smooth, safe, and incredibly enjoyable.I couldn’t have asked for a better trip. Highly recommended!
     
   Tristan L 
 17 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified An unforgettable immersion in the heart of Ugandan nature 🌿
An unforgettable stay in Uganda! The observation of gorillas and chimpanzees will remain in my memory. The Jeep rhino tour with a private guide was amazing. Everything was perfectly organized, respectful of nature and animals. A magical experience that I recommend 100%!A thought also for our guide Patrick who was simply perfect
     
   Alexandre R 
 17 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Professional, Responsive, and Reliable – Excellent Experience with Encounter Africa Safaris
We had a fantastic experience with Encounter Africa Safaris in Uganda. From the very beginning, their communication was fast, clear, and professional. Monica, in particular, was incredibly responsive and helpful — she answered every question promptly and with genuine care, which gave us great peace of mind while planning our trip.We chose the two-day, one-night itinerary starting and ending in Kigali, with a border crossing into Uganda for gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Everything ran smoothly from pickup to drop-off at Kigali Airport.Our driver, Edgar, was outstanding — calm, friendly, and extremely skilled behind the wheel. Navigating the rough, winding gravel roads to Bwindi is no small task, but Edgar handled it with ease and confidence. We always felt safe and well taken care of, even in the most remote areas.The logistics were smooth, the planning thoughtful, and the overall experience was exactly what we hoped for — efficient, well-organized, and stress-free.If you're considering a safari or gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, I can highly recommend Encounter Africa Safaris for their professionalism, personal touch, and great team.
     
   Yalie'00 
 16 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Amazing experience
I did the 3 day gorilla experience from Kigali and the whole trip was fantastic. From the initial planning with Denis who answered ALL my questions and queries. I was a little nervous about booking directly and online however the company was really professional. I was picked up in Kigali by Godwin and then taken to the Genocide museum then we had a beautiful dive through the Rwandan and Ugandan countryside. I stayed at the Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge where the staff were really friendly and with beautiful views of the forest from my bungalow. The gorilla trekking was such a great experience, we got to spent an hour with a family of about 15, I still cannot believe how close we were. On the trip back to Rwanda I had time to drop in at Bunyonyi Lake and did a 2 hour boat trip before being dropped back at Kigali Airport. I enjoyed the whole trip, Godwin took great care of me. I will return again in the future and definitely recommend. Thank you to the Encounter Africa team.
     
   lillypilli 
 12 September 2025

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CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Read the real stories and experiences shared by fellow travellers who've travelled with Encounter Africa Safaris.

GOOGLE REVIEWS (Over 40+ Reviews)

     
   Gorilla Safaris: Encounter Africa Safaris Ltd
   44 Google reviews 
 
  
        
   Gorilla Safaris: Encounter Africa Safaris Ltd
   4.744 Google reviews 
 
 
 
        Posted on Google  
   
   Laura Gooch 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  We had the most amazing trip with Encounter safaris. Dennis helped plan our itinerary to match some specific requests and Patrick our driver was kind, knowledgeable and fun! Our trip included visiting the Gorillas, chimpanzees and Murchison Falls - an unforgettable trip. Thank you!
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Daniel C 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  We recently completed a memorable trip organized by Encounter Africa, traveling from Kigali, Rwanda to Entebbe, Uganda, and overall, the experience was overall excellent.

Right from the start, everything was well-organized, and the itinerary was thoughtfully planned. The lodges selected for our stay were generally of a high standard, offering comfort, great service, and beautiful surroundings. There was one exception during the trip where a lodge didn’t meet expectations, but we were very impressed with how quickly and professionally Encounter Africa responded. They changed the accommodation immediately without fuss, showing a strong commitment to guest satisfaction.

A major highlight of the trip was our guide, Richard (Instagram: @richardmrtravels). Richard was nothing short of fantasti....knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to help. Whether we had questions about the places we visited, needed assistance with logistics, or just wanted to learn more about the region, Richard was our go-to person. He’s highly recommended if you want a top-notch guide who truly cares about your experience.

The gorilla and chimpanzee tracking excursions were absolutely unforgettable—well coordinated, with expert local trackers, and truly one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters.

The only downside of the trip was the standard of transport provided. The vehicle’s air conditioning was not functioning properly, which made some of the longer drives uncomfortable, especially during the hotter parts of the day
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Anthony Maestri 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Patrick was our tour guide and he was nothing short of amazing. He helped to make my wife and my honeymoon unforgettable. He made us feel totally comfortable and and was a pleasure to get to talk with and learn more about Uganda. Without hesitation I recommend his service. Uganda will hold a special place in our heart, in my ways because of Patrick’s level of service and caring nature. The chimp trekking and gorilla hiking were a once in a lifetime experience. Don’t hesitate to use this company and make sure to ask for Patrick!
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Juma Taremwa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Calm and organized
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ghazal 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Well organized and reliable company.
Everything was planned to our fullest satisfaction. I can recommend this company anytime🦍❤️
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nick Presser 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Incredible safari company that I will happily use again. If I could give 6 stars I would. Monica is a true standout in the office, and I appreciate her and her work so much. Obed is a wonderful guide and feel so lucky to have been paired with him.
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nelson Mugisha 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Staff are friendly  and helpful

START PLANNING

TRIP ADVISOR (Over 450+ Reviews)

      Excellent rating  
 Based on 473 reviews 
    
  
 
 
      Verified Cannot think of the words. Awe inspiring and empowering
All I can say is wow, but I will say a lot more. From the first contact with Denis at HQ at the numerous enquires and changes along the way this group at Encounter Africa Safaris have been fantastic. Then touching base with Godwin Amanya at Kisoro to do the Gorilla experience was awesome. What a great guy and host and I will never forget his suggestion to go and visit the local village and the Batwa community. Truly inspiring❤️❤️❤️
     
   Stephen Davis 
 4 November 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Gorilla/chimpanzee trekking
We took a 14-day tour of Uganda – with gorilla and chimpanzee trekking – and are absolutely thrilled! The whole organization was perfect from start to finish. Everything went smoothly: Transfers, accommodation, meals and activities were excellently coordinated.The highlight was of course the encounters with the gorillas in Bwindi National Park and the chimpanzees in Kibale Forest – an unforgettable experience we will never forget.Our guide deserves special praise. He was not only extremely competent and experienced, but also incredibly friendly, helpful and flexible. Thanks to his warm nature we felt safe and well looked after throughout the trip. He told us a lot about nature, wildlife and life in Uganda and made the trip very special.We can fully recommend this tour – it was a perfectly organized, varied and unforgettable trip through a beautiful country with warm people.
     
   Patrick F 
 25 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified The trip of a lifetime.
This was the adventure of a lifetime. Being able to be so close to these majestic animals in their natural habitat was breathtaking. Our trip was only two days in duration and in hindsight I would have loved to have done a two day trip. Our trek into the forest was a relatively short one and with only eight people in the group was just the perfect number.Our driver/ guide Jason was the perfect host being so knowledgeable about the gorillas and the local communities surrounding the forest. Our consultant Denis whom we communicated with from the very start of of this experience was nothing short of excellent!! The communication at all times was professional, informative and quick. At times during our hour spent with the gorilla family I had to pinch myself to remind me that this was actually for real and not some excellent wildlife documentary. Words and pictures don’t really convey the remarkable experience that this was. If you are reading this then I would encourage you to have this experience for yourself. Encounter Africa Safaris we’re 5 star from begin to end.
     
   Donald A 
 23 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Solo Female Traveler in Uganda - Exceptional experience while feeling safe
Being a solo female traveler, I felt incredibly cared for in both the planning and the actual vacation. Denis and the Encounter Africa Safari Team helped me decide on how to book my trip within my budget and with hotels that don't penalize you for staying alone. Beyond that, they provided last-minute changes (about a week before) to what I wanted to see. When my driver arrived, it was a VERY early transfer from a different tour group in the high Bwindi Mountains. Huge shout out to Patrick (my driver), he was very knowledgeable, and has such PASSION for what he does. Not as someone who just bogs you down with all the information in his head (which he was able to answer all my many, many, many many questions) but truly wants to know what would make your vacation the BEST one, what you care about seeing, and provides a view of Uganda through a local's eyes and why it is beautiful to them. He helped me see beyond just the incredible experiences of the Safaris, Nile, Kazinga Channel, and White Water Rafting - but also the people, locations that are off the beaten path, and what truly makes Uganda special and unique in so many ways. I hope to return soon! Thank you for making this investment in memories worth every penny, and for helping me feel safe and respected by both the company staff and every person in the hotels and those we met along the way.
     
   Culture Trekking 
 21 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Fantastic tour
We had the most amazing experience with Encounter Safaris. Denis understood all our requirements and planned the perfect trip for us. Patrick was the best guide (I wish we could bottle his laugh and take it back to England). He was super knowledgeable, answered all our questions and made us feel really comfortable and relaxed.I would definitely recommend Encounter safaris to friends and family and we REALLY hope to be back.
     
   Laura22015 
 11 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Best trip ever
Best tour of my life!!! Very organized and my transportation Godwin was amazing. I learned so much about Rwanda and Uganda before the trip even started. When we did the hike, I felt very safe due to the guides and rangers and they were all very knowledgeable. Worth every penny
     
   Jordan Spriggs 
 26 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified An Amazing Safari Experience in Uganda
This was my very first safari in Uganda and it was truly unforgettable. Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes are simply breathtaking, and every day felt like a new adventure.A special thank you to our guide Patrick, who was absolutely outstanding – knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate. He made the whole experience smooth, safe, and incredibly enjoyable.I couldn’t have asked for a better trip. Highly recommended!
     
   Tristan L 
 17 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified An unforgettable immersion in the heart of Ugandan nature 🌿
An unforgettable stay in Uganda! The observation of gorillas and chimpanzees will remain in my memory. The Jeep rhino tour with a private guide was amazing. Everything was perfectly organized, respectful of nature and animals. A magical experience that I recommend 100%!A thought also for our guide Patrick who was simply perfect
     
   Alexandre R 
 17 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Professional, Responsive, and Reliable – Excellent Experience with Encounter Africa Safaris
We had a fantastic experience with Encounter Africa Safaris in Uganda. From the very beginning, their communication was fast, clear, and professional. Monica, in particular, was incredibly responsive and helpful — she answered every question promptly and with genuine care, which gave us great peace of mind while planning our trip.We chose the two-day, one-night itinerary starting and ending in Kigali, with a border crossing into Uganda for gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Everything ran smoothly from pickup to drop-off at Kigali Airport.Our driver, Edgar, was outstanding — calm, friendly, and extremely skilled behind the wheel. Navigating the rough, winding gravel roads to Bwindi is no small task, but Edgar handled it with ease and confidence. We always felt safe and well taken care of, even in the most remote areas.The logistics were smooth, the planning thoughtful, and the overall experience was exactly what we hoped for — efficient, well-organized, and stress-free.If you're considering a safari or gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, I can highly recommend Encounter Africa Safaris for their professionalism, personal touch, and great team.
     
   Yalie'00 
 16 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Amazing experience
I did the 3 day gorilla experience from Kigali and the whole trip was fantastic. From the initial planning with Denis who answered ALL my questions and queries. I was a little nervous about booking directly and online however the company was really professional. I was picked up in Kigali by Godwin and then taken to the Genocide museum then we had a beautiful dive through the Rwandan and Ugandan countryside. I stayed at the Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge where the staff were really friendly and with beautiful views of the forest from my bungalow. The gorilla trekking was such a great experience, we got to spent an hour with a family of about 15, I still cannot believe how close we were. On the trip back to Rwanda I had time to drop in at Bunyonyi Lake and did a 2 hour boat trip before being dropped back at Kigali Airport. I enjoyed the whole trip, Godwin took great care of me. I will return again in the future and definitely recommend. Thank you to the Encounter Africa team.
     
   lillypilli 
 12 September 2025

2 Days 1 Night Rwanda Gorilla Tour

Typical Itinerary

Cost and Inclusions

Package Inclusions typically cover:

Exclusions usually are:

What to consider for your 2 Days 1 Night Rwanda Gorilla Tour

Best time to Visit

Responsible Travel Uganda

Latest Blog Stories

Related Travel News

Safari Inquiries

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

These reviews provide authentic, firsthand insights, offering a true glimpse into what you can expect from the experience

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