One Day Golden Monkeys Trekking with Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
Active
5h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trek into Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park with Afri Safaris to encounter the rare and playful Golden Monkeys—found only in the misty Virunga Mountains. This thrilling one-day adventure is perfect for travelers short on time but craving unforgettable wildlife experiences. Watch these curious, golden-furred primates leap through bamboo forests in one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions.
Kick off your epic day with an early departure from Kigali on a scenic 2–2.5 hour Enjoy a seamless and comfortable journey with our premium 4×4 safari vehicles, equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity to keep you in touch with your loved ones & the world, plus onboard power charging systems to keep your devices fully powered throughout your adventure.
Enhance your day with an optional visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund or the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village—an ex-poacher community celebrating Rwandan culture and conservation.
Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and explorers
Available options
Monkeys trek, Gorilla Guardian
Iby'iwacu cultural village.: Iby'iwacu Cultural Village is a village of ex-poachers, those previously stealing the gorillas due to poverty, they now stopp<br/>All inclusive <br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Lunch, Coffee and water : Lunch and Beverage included <br/>Kigali - Volcanoes National Pa: Kigali - Musanze - Volcanoes National Park in the Northern Province of Rwanda.<br/>4x4 : 4x4 Safari Vehicle, 4x4 Land Cruiser<br/>Tourist permit Included : Tourist permit for Golden Monkeys included in this Option.<br/>Pickup included
Monkeys Trek, Diana Fossey F.E
Ellen DeGeneres Campus: a visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund<br/>Tourist permit fee excluded: Tourist permit permit for Monkeys trek excluded in this option<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Lunch and drinks are included<br/>Kigali - Volcanoes National P: Kigali - Musanze - Volcanoes National Park <br/>4WD: 4x4 safari vehicle, Land Cruiser <br/>Tourist permit fee excluded : Foreign non-residents: $1,00 USD<br/>Pickup included
Monkeys trek, Diana Fossey G f
Ellen DeGeneres Campus: a visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund<br/>All inclusive <br/>Duration: 9 hours<br/>Lunch and drinks are included<br/>Kigali - Volcanoes National P: Kigali - Musanze - Volcanoes National Park <br/>4WD: 4x4 safari vehicle, Land Cruiser <br/>Tourist permit fee Included : Tourist permit fee Included in this Option.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
• Golden Monkeys trek Permit fee in Rwanda when opted.
•Stay Connected On Board with Wi-Fi and Power Charging System for your devices & comfortable Journey
• Golden Monkeys Trekking Certificate by Afri Safaris
• Lunch • Coffee & Plenty of Water (Beverage)
• Private Transport: 4x4 Safari vehicle, 4x4 Safari Car.
• Unforgettable photo opportunities that last a lifetime – every moment is wild and wonderful.
•Unforgettable Photo Opportunities – Every moment is wild and wonderful!
• Professional driver guide by Afri Safaris
•Pick-up and drop-off anywhere in Kigali City and or Kigali airport
•Optional Visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund or Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village.
Detailed itinerary
1
A transfer, begins & ends in Kigali
SIMPLE ITINERARY:
You should wake up early & order for breakfast as you wait for the driver to pick you up. Afri Safaris driver guide will take you to the RDB headquarter in Kinigi for briefing by 7:00am. This briefing is very important and is where you will meet other tourists and Rangers who will be leading you to the forest. The briefing covers many topics but the most important is how to behave around the golden monkey, what to expect and what to carry along while tracking the golden mok. You will be assigned a golden mok taking into consideration your overall fitness & age. This is because some of the golden monkey groups are located deeper in the forest hence requiring more hours of trekking. Porters are available to help you with extra luggage. Park Rangers will lead you into the forest to track the primates. Trekking takes btn 2 to 5 hours.
After an hour of observing the golden mo, our Guide will be waiting for you at the starting point.
2
After Golden trekking, then you will be transferred to Iby'iwacu cultural village. Iby'iwacu Cultural Village is a village of ex-poachers, those previously stealing the gorillas due to poverty, they now stopped poaching. The Iby’iwacu cultural village is one of the leading cultural attractions in Rwanda. The Village combines all of Rwanda’s known cultural traditions, people & history into one place for display & a personal experience. International visitors get to see what life was in a typical African village setting – the lifestyle, houses, traditional dances, dressing code, food, herbs & how the ancient kingdoms were generally organized. Tourists are given an opportunity to learn ancient hunting skills, try weaving baskets/mats, carpentry. This unique experience has won the hearts of many visitors who wish to indulge in the culture of Rwanda’s native community after seeing gorillas. Village offers an opportunities to purchase local craft, gifts & souvenir to show friends back home.
What's not included
• Golden Monkeys Permit fee when not opted. And must be purchased once booking is confirmed.
• Tips • Porter fees •Personal expenses • Everything else not mentioned in the inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
5 reviews
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Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Kigali
Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is known for its cleanliness, safety, and vibrant culture. It's a city of rolling hills, bustling markets, and a rich history, offering a unique blend of urban development and traditional Rwandan charm. The city is a gateway to Rwanda's incredible wildlife and natural beauty, making it an ideal starting point for any visit to the country.
Top Attractions
Kigali Genocide Memorial
A poignant and important site that commemorates the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. The memorial includes a museum, mass graves, and a garden of remembrance.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Mount Kigali
A scenic hill offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the city. It's a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to escape the urban hustle.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free
Kigali City Tower
A historic tower built by the Germans in 1907, offering a glimpse into Kigali's colonial past. The tower is surrounded by a small park and is a popular spot for photos.
Architecture
1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Brochettes
Grilled meat skewers, typically made with goat or beef, and served with a side of salad or fried potatoes.
Snack
Not vegetarian or vegan.
Ugali
A staple dish made from maize flour, often served with a side of vegetables, meat, or stew.
Main course
Vegetarian (check for meat in accompanying dishes).
Isombe
A traditional dish made with cassava leaves, eggplant, and often served with peanuts or beans.
Main course
Vegetarian (can be made vegan if needed).
Popular Activities
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Hiking in Nyungwe National Park
Boating on Lake Kivu
Visiting a traditional Rwandan spa
Exploring the Kigali Genocide Memorial
Visiting local markets and cultural centers
Boating and fishing on Lake Kivu
Not applicable
Best Time to Visit
June to September and December to February
These months offer the best weather for exploring Kigali and its surroundings. The dry season means fewer rain showers and more comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Kinyarwanda, English, French
- Widely spoken: English, French, Swahili
- English: Widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among younger generations
Currency
Rwandan Franc (RWF)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kigali is one of the safest cities in Africa, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Kigali International Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus
Kigali Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
SACCO buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Kigali. They are affordable and cover most of the city. However, they can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDrive, Yango
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Nyamirambo
Kacyiru
Day trips
Volcanoes National Park
2-3 hours by car • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its mountain gorilla trekking. The park offers a unique opportunity to see these endangered animals in their natural habitat.
Lake Kivu
2-3 hours by car • Full day or overnight
A beautiful lake offering a variety of water activities, scenic views, and relaxation. The surrounding towns, such as Gisenyi and Kibuye, offer accommodations and dining options.
Festivals
Kigali Up • Annual, typically in July
Rwanda Film Festival (HoroMbye) • Annual, typically in October
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Kinyarwanda to enhance your cultural experience and connect with locals.
- Hire a local guide for a more informative and immersive experience, especially when visiting cultural sites and markets.
- Take advantage of Kigali's vibrant coffee culture by visiting local cafes and coffee tours.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and always ask permission before taking someone's photo.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, especially when walking alone at night.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
