An easy way to see gorillas in Rwanda

To view gorillas in Rwanda, you need to head for the Virunga Volcanoes National Park north of Kigali, on the northern border with Uganda. This gorilla safari explores the habitat of mountain gorillas and golden monkeys within a chain of 5 volcanoes.

• Market and memorials in Kigali
• Parc de National Virunga, Rwanda
• 4 days/3 nights
• Gorillas in Rwanda

Highlights of the gorillas in Rwanda trek

This safari starts in Kigali. Capital of Rwanda and known as the Garden City, this is one of the safest cities in Africa. Kigali is the cultural hub and has many bustling markets, an atmospheric Muslim quarter and excellent restaurants.  You’ll stay one night at the Lemigo Hotel, simple, traditional and luxurious. You’ll have the opportunity to go on a city tour which will include a visit to the genocide memorial.

Then head off for the Virunga Volcanoes National Park and check in to your lodge for the next two nights.  The Mountain Gorilla View Lodge is a delightful lodge with 30 cottages. Set in 4 acres on the slopes of Mount Sabinyo, the lodge has lovely views across the misty landscape.

Best time to see gorillas in Rwanda

• June to August are the driest months and theoretically easiest trekking time
• March to May the wettest and therefore usually the hardest treks.

(Mountain gorilla portrait courtesy Julie Brenner)