Tours & safaris
Mountain Gorilla Trekking — Volcanoes National Park
Guided gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park with permits, lodge coordination, and Kigali transfers — Rwanda’s signature wildlife experience.
Rwanda’s most sought-after wildlife encounter
Overview
Track endangered mountain gorillas on the slopes of the Virunga volcanoes with a licensed guide and park ranger. Fairway Bliss Tours coordinates RDB gorilla permits (subject to availability), accommodation in Musanze or Kinigi, ground transfers from Kigali, and pre-trek briefing so your group is fully prepared.
Trek difficulty varies by family group location; expect 2–6 hours on forest trails at altitude (2,500–3,500 m). This package is ideal for conservation-minded travelers and photographers who want a once-in-a-lifetime encounter while supporting Rwanda’s tourism and protection programs.
Highlights
- One guaranteed gorilla trekking permit per guest (when RDB allocates)
- Professional tracker guide and park ranger escort
- Musanze lodge or equivalent — breakfast included
- Round-trip Kigali ↔ park transfers in 4x4
- Pre-trek briefing and packing checklist
Sample itinerary
Arrive Kigali → Musanze
Meet driver at airport or hotel. Scenic drive (~2.5 h) to Musanze. Lodge check-in, briefing on trek etiquette and gear.
Gorilla trek
Early park headquarters check-in. Guided trek to assigned gorilla family (2–6 h). Return to lodge; rest of day at leisure.
Return to Kigali
Breakfast and flexible morning. Transfer to Kigali for departure or city extension.
What's included
- Gorilla permit facilitation fee & coordination
- 2 nights accommodation (twin/double sharing basis)
- Daily breakfast at lodge
- Private 4x4 vehicle and driver
- Bottled water on transfer days
- Fairway operations support before departure
Not included
- International flights & visa fees
- Travel insurance (required)
- Lunch and dinner unless stated at lodge
- Personal porter hire (~$15–20, optional)
- Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
- Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
What to bring
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Long sleeves and gaiters
- Rain jacket
- Gardening gloves (vegetation)
- Daypack
- Insect repellent
Booking policies
Deposit: 25% deposit secures permit application window; balance due 21 days before trek.
Cancellation: Permits are non-refundable once purchased by RDB. Land arrangements follow Fairway written policy shared at confirmation.
Common questions
How fit do I need to be?
You should be comfortable walking uphill on uneven paths for several hours. Porters can be hired locally to assist with daypacks.
Are permits guaranteed?
We apply as soon as you confirm dates. Permits are issued by RDB and depend on daily quota — we advise booking 3–6 months ahead in peak season.