Rwanda: Mountain Gorillas in the Land of a Thousand Hills (Land Tour)

 Dates: June 08 – 19, 2026

Optional Uganda pre-trip extension U.S. Return Date: June 02, 2026

Imagine locking eyes with a majestic silverback gorilla in the misty mountains of Rwanda—an encounter so rare and breathtaking, it’s often described as the most unforgettable wildlife experience on Earth. This June 08 – 19, 2026, you’re invited to step into The Land of a Thousand Hills for an extraordinary adventure filled with culture, history, and nature unlike anywhere else in the world.

 WHY THIS TRIP IS PERFECT FOR YOU:

* Wildlife Encounters: Trek into Volcanoes National Park to see mountain gorillas up close, and spot golden monkeys in the bamboo forests.

* Safari Adventures: Explore Akagera National Park with multiple game drives and a Lake Ihema boat cruise—home to elephants, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species.

* Cultural Immersion: Visit Kigali and Nyamata Church Memorial, meet genocide survivors, experience life in a Reconciliation Village, and enjoy a home-hosted dinner with locals.

* Conservation & Education: Learn about gorilla conservation directly from park wardens and visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

Optional travelers can also add a Uganda pre-trip extension (departing June 02, 2026) for even more wildlife encounters and cultural discoveries.

 ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS:
* Day 1 – Depart U.S. for Kigali, Rwanda
* Day 2–4 – Explore Kigali: Genocide Memorial, Reconciliation Village, Nyamata Church Memorial
* Day 5–7 – Akagera National Park: Women’s Opportunity Center, game drives, and Lake Ihema boat cruise
* Day 8–10 – Ruhengeri: Gorilla trek, golden monkey trek, home-hosted dinner, and school visit with Grand Circle Foundation
* Day 11 – Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund visit, return to Kigali, evening flight back to U.S.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW DETAILED ITINERARY

 WHAT’S INCLUDED
 9 nights accommodations (Kigali city hotel, Akagera game lodge, and Volcanoes mountain lodge)
 25 meals—9 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 7 dinners
 16 small group activities, including 2 jungle treks & up to 4 game drives
 All national park, gorilla, and golden monkey trek permit fees
 Services of expert local guides and driver-guides
 Gratuities for guides, drivers, and staff
 Safari duffel bag & water bottle

ACCOMMODATIONS:
Lemigo Hotel (Kigali) – Centrally located with pool, bar, and fitness center

Akagera Game Lodge (Akagera) – Inside the national park, overlooking Lake Ihema

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Ruhengeri) – Cottage-style rooms near Volcanoes National Park with views of volcanic peaks

Extensions feature stays in wilderness lodges and O.A.T.’s private tented camp in Tanzania or Uganda.

 NOTE: The overall activity level of this tour is a level 4. Travelers should be able to climb 80 stairs consecutively, plus walk at least 4 miles over some steep slopes and loose or uneven surfaces without difficulty. Walks typically last for 4 or more hours at a time. Altitude can range from 7,000 to 9,000 feet. Expect three or more one-night stays in some locations, and very limited free time for rest or independent exploration.

 This exclusive Rwanda journey offers wildlife, culture, and personal connections you won’t find anywhere else. From the resilience of the Rwandan people to the awe of meeting mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, this is more than a trip—it’s a life-changing adventure.

 Cancellation policy: