An Exciting 2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour, Rwanda

Prepare for an extraordinary journey into the heart of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park with our exclusive 2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour. This unforgettable adventure is one of the best gorilla tours in Rwanda, offering travelers a rare opportunity to witness majestic mountain gorillas, led by a dominant silverback, in their natural forest habitat. Ideal for those short on time but eager for a profound wildlife experience, this tour blends nature, culture, and seamless logistics into one compact itinerary.

Nestled within the scenic Virunga Massif, Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking is an awe-inspiring highlight of any Rwanda gorilla safari 2 days itinerary. This immersive trek takes you through misty bamboo forests where you’ll observe gorillas up close in their tranquil, protected environment. The tour also includes a visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, adding a rich cultural layer to your adventure.

Whether you’re comparing it with 1 day gorilla tracking in Uganda or seeking a short gorilla tour in Rwanda, this package stands out for its balance of intensity and comfort. With rising demand and the Rwanda gorilla permit price for 2025 currently set at $1,500, it’s crucial to book early.

Join us for this unforgettable 2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour, gorilla trekking Rwanda itinerary—your once-in-a-lifetime encounter awaits!

Trip Overview of the 2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour

Duration: 2 days, 1 night
Start/End: Kigali (Kigali International Airport or your hotel)
Destination: Volcanoes National Park, Musanze (Ruhengeri)
Activities: Gorilla trekking, cultural visit to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, scenic drives
Accommodation: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (luxury), Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel (mid-range), or Kinigi Guest House (budget)
Best Time: June–August or December–February (dry seasons) for easier trekking; March–May or October–November (wet seasons) for fewer crowds and lush scenery
Highlights: One-hour gorilla encounter with a silverback-led family, cultural immersion, stunning Virunga volcano views, seamless logistics

2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour is designed for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers eager to witness one of the world’s most endangered species, mountain gorillas, in a pristine rainforest. With only 1,063 mountain gorillas left globally, this is a rare privilege, made effortless by our expert guides, comfortable 4×4 transport, and carefully selected accommodations.

You may also like 4 Days Rwanda Gorillas & Chimp Tour

Detailed Itinerary of the 2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Cultural Immersion

Distance: 110 km (2.5–3 hours’ drive from Kigali to Musanze)
Activities: Scenic drive, visit to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
Accommodation: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (luxury), Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel (mid-range), or Kinigi Guest House (budget)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Your 2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant and welcoming capital, known for its orderly streets and warm hospitality.

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport or pickup from your hotel at 8:00 AM, our professional driver-guide will greet you with a warm smile and provide a detailed safari briefing.

After loading your luggage into a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle, embark on a scenic 2.5–3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park in Musanze (Ruhengeri), located in Rwanda’s northwest.

The journey is a visual delight, winding through Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills,” where emerald terraces, banana plantations, and volcanic peaks create a postcard-perfect landscape.

En route, stop for a coffee break in a roadside café, tasting Rwanda’s world-famous coffee beans, or stretch your legs to photograph the rolling hills.

Arrive in Musanze by 11:00 AM, a bustling town at the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, and proceed to your accommodation for check-in.

Choose from the luxurious Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, with its stone cottages and volcano views, the cozy Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, offering modern comforts, or the budget-friendly Kinigi Guest House, providing clean, simple rooms.

After settling in, enjoy a hearty lunch at the lodge, featuring Rwandan specialties like isombe (cassava leaf stew) or grilled tilapia, prepared with fresh local ingredients.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich culture with a 2-hour visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, a short 15-minute drive from your lodge.

This community-led initiative, as highlighted by volcanoessafaris.com, offers an authentic glimpse into Rwandan traditions.

Engage with former poachers turned conservationists, who share stories of transformation and the importance of gorilla conservation.

Participate in traditional dance (Intore), basket weaving, or a mock “king’s coronation” ceremony, where you can dress as a Rwandan royal.

Learn about the Kinyarwanda language, taste local banana beer (urwagwa), and shop for handmade crafts to support the local community.

The experience is both educational and heartwarming, fostering a deeper appreciation for Rwanda’s conservation efforts.

Return to your lodge by 5:00 PM for relaxation. Take in the stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes—Karisimbi, Bisoke, and Muhabura—while sipping a drink on the terrace.

Dinner is served at 7:00 PM, featuring a fusion of African and international cuisine. Your guide will brief you on tomorrow’s gorilla trek, ensuring you’re prepared for the adventure.

Retire early, lulled to sleep by the tranquil sounds of the forest, as you anticipate meeting the silverbacks.

Travel Tip: Pack a lightweight rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes for the cultural visit, as Musanze’s weather can be cool and rainy. Bring cash (Rwandan Francs or USD) for souvenirs at the cultural village.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Return to Kigali

Activities: Morning gorilla trekking, transfer to Kigali, optional Kigali city tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today is the pinnacle of your tour: gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, home to 10 habituated gorilla families and nearly half the world’s mountain gorilla population.

Wake at 5:30 AM for an early breakfast, as you’ll need to be at the Kinigi park headquarters by 7:00 AM for a gorilla trekking briefing.

After packing your daypack with water, snacks, and rain gear, drive 15 minutes to the headquarters, where Rwanda Development Board (RDB) rangers welcome you with coffee, tea, and a traditional dance performance.

During the briefing, rangers assign you to a gorilla family suited to your fitness level, ensuring a manageable trek. Volcanoes National Park, covering 160 km², is part of the Virunga Massif, with dense bamboo forests and volcanic slopes at 2,400–4,500 meters altitude.

The park hosts 320–400 gorillas, and the silverback, the dominant male, leads each family, protecting and guiding them.

As noted by silverbackgorillatours.com, the trekking success rate is nearly 100%, thanks to expert trackers and habituated groups like Susa, Amahoro, or Hirwa.

At 8:00 AM, set off with your group (maximum eight trekkers) and armed rangers, who ensure safety and track the gorillas’ movements.

The trek, lasting 2–6 hours, varies in difficulty depending on the gorillas’ location—some families are closer to trailheads, while others require steeper climbs.

Navigate muddy trails, bamboo thickets, and stinging nettles, guided by trackers who communicate with the gorillas’ last known position.

Along the way, spot golden monkeys, forest birds like the Rwenzori turaco, or signs of elephants and buffalo.

Upon locating the gorilla family, spend one magical hour in their presence, maintaining a 7-meter distance for safety.

The silverback, weighing up to 200 kg, commands awe with his imposing size and calm authority, while females, juveniles, and playful infants create a dynamic family scene.

Observe their behaviors—feeding on bamboo shoots, grooming, or wrestling—as they interact with surprisingly human-like gestures. Photography is allowed (no flash), so bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture these intimate moments.

The experience, described by Expert Africa as “life-changing,” leaves a lasting impression of connection and conservation.

Return to the park headquarters by midday, where porters and your driver await. Receive a certificate for completing the trek, a cherished memento.

Drive back to your lodge for a quick shower and lunch, celebrating your encounter with stories and photos. By 2:00 PM, begin the 2.5–3-hour drive back to Kigali, arriving around 5:00 PM.

If time permits and your flight schedule allows, enjoy a brief Kigali city tour. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand Rwanda’s resilience post-1994, or browse the Kimironko Market for colorful fabrics and coffee.

Your guide will drop you off at Kigali International Airport or your hotel, concluding the tour. For those extending their stay, we can arrange add-ons like chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest or a safari in Akagera National Park.

End of the 2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour

Travel Tip: For 2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour, Wear long-sleeved clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and garden gloves for trekking to protect against nettles and mud. Hire a porter ($10–$15) to carry your bag and support local communities.

luxury vs budget gorilla tour Rwanda

When planning a gorilla safari in Rwanda like this2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour, travelers often choose between luxury and budget gorilla tours based on comfort, preferences, and travel goals. At Maranatha Tours and Travel, we proudly offer both styles to ensure every client experiences the thrill of Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking, regardless of their budget.

Our luxury gorilla tours in Rwanda provide high-end experiences with accommodations like Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge or Bisate Lodge, private 4×4 transfers, gourmet meals, and personalized services. These tours are perfect for travelers seeking comfort, exclusivity, and a deeper connection to Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife.

On the other hand, our budget gorilla tours in Rwanda are designed for adventure seekers and solo travelers who prioritize experience over extravagance. You’ll enjoy comfortable, clean accommodations such as Kinigi Guest House, professional guiding, and the same exhilarating Rwanda gorilla trekking permit access—without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re departing from Kigali for a gorilla trekking safari, or joining one of our Musanze gorilla safari trips, we ensure a seamless, safe, and memorable journey. Book with us today to find the perfect tour for your needs—luxury or budget, the Rwanda gorilla experience will exceed your expectations.

Volcanoes National Park gorilla experience

Best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda

The best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons—June to August and December to February—when forest trails are less muddy, offering a smoother Volcanoes National Park gorilla experience. These months are ideal for spotting gorillas in their natural habitat with greater ease and comfort. Whether you’re planning a Kigali gorilla trekking departure or booking Musanze gorilla safari trips, the dry season guarantees better trekking conditions. Many travelers choose the Kigali to Volcanoes National Park tour for its quick access. Combine this with Rwanda wildlife and primate tours for a well-rounded African adventure you’ll never forget.

How to book gorilla permits in Rwanda

Booking gorilla permits in Rwanda is a crucial step for anyone planning to experience the unforgettable Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking. Permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and cost $1,500 per person for foreign non-residents in 2025. Because only 96 permits are available per day, it’s essential to book well in advance—ideally 6 to 12 months before your trek.

You can book directly through the RDB or, for a more convenient and reliable process, work with reputable tour operators. Trusted companies like Trek Rwanda Gorilla Safaris and our team at Maranatha Tours and Travel offer complete packages that include permit reservation, accommodation, transportation, and guided trekking services. By booking with us, you’re guaranteed a seamless experience with expert planning, 24/7 support, and ethical tourism practices.

Let us take care of the logistics so you can focus on the adventure. Contact us today to secure your Rwanda gorilla trekking permit and start planning your dream safari!

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations in Rwanda

Participant Limits & Group Size: Only eight visitors per gorilla family per day are permitted, with smaller gorilla groups limiting parties to six. This restriction helps minimize stress and human-borne disease transmission to these vulnerable primates.

Age & Health Requirements:  Trekkers must be at least 15 years old, and anyone feeling unwell or showing flu symptoms must voluntarily forgo trekking. If identified as sick at the park gate or during the trek, access will be denied without reimbursement.

Distance & Duration Guidelines: Maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters (approx. 22 feet) from gorillas. Flash photography is strictly prohibited, and visitors may spend a maximum of one hour with the gorilla family. Sudden movements or direct eye contact with gorillas should be avoided.

Behavior & Conduct During the Trek: Visitors must stay in a tight group, follow the guide’s instructions, talk softly, and avoid pointing at or touching the gorillas. If a gorilla charges, remain calm, crouch, and look away. Eating, smoking, or drinking is not allowed within 200 meters of gorillas.

Environmental & Health Safety

• No littering: Take all trash out of the forest to prevent habitat contamination.

• If nature calls: inform your guide, who will dig a 30 cm hole; fill it back once you’re done.

• Always wash hands before and after the trek.

• Avoid coughing or sneezing in the presence of gorillas—turn away and cover your nose and mouth.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge offers elegant cottages, fireplaces, and volcano views, perfect for a pampered retreat.
• Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel provides modern rooms and proximity to the park, balancing comfort and value.
• Budget: Kinigi Guest House offers basic, clean accommodations, ideal for cost-conscious travelers.

what to pack for gorilla trekking Rwanda

• Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, waterproof hiking boots, rain jacket, hat, and warm layers for cool mornings.
• Gear: Camera (no flash), binoculars, reusable water bottle, daypack, and insect repellent.
• Essentials: Sunscreen, garden gloves, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Carry at least 2 liters of water for trekking.
• Health: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended, though Musanze is low-risk.

Travel Tips

• Best Time: Dry seasons (June–August, December–February) offer better trails; wet seasons (March–May, October–November) provide lush scenery but muddier paths.
• Safety: Rwanda is safe, with no wildlife threats during treks (rangers carry rifles for rare buffalo encounters). Follow ranger instructions and avoid trekking if unwell.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs during the cultural visit; ask permission before photographing people.
• Physical Preparation: Trekking is strenuous, with steep, slippery trails. Moderate fitness is required; walking sticks are provided.

Why Choose 2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour?

Volcanoes National Park is a global conservation success, with gorilla numbers rising due to Rwanda’s efforts. Trekking with a silverback-led family is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering profound insights into these gentle giants’ lives.

The Iby’iwacu Cultural Village adds cultural depth, while Rwanda’s compact size makes this tour ideal for short trips.

As Intrepid Travel notes, “Seeing mountain gorillas is worth every second of effort.” With our expertise, you’ll enjoy a seamless, transformative adventure.

Book your unforgettable 2 Days Silverback Gorilla Tour, Rwanda gorilla safari with us today! Experience the thrill of Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking while we handle permits, transport, and expert guidance for a seamless adventure.