3 Days Volcanoes Helicopter safari

On this 3 days Volcanoes helicopter safari, you will cover the highlights of Volcanoes National Park, from the endangered mountain gorilla, the cultures of Rwandans, by visiting Gorilla Guardian Village, to experiencing the real charm of this beautiful safari destination.

Volcanoes National Park an incredible 160-square kilometer Protected Area in the Northern Province of Rwanda, and has existed since 1925 hence making it the oldest Park on the African Continent. This Park is known for many mind-blowing things but what stands out is the fact that it is the stronghold for the endangered mountain gorillas, with over 300 of them calling the Park home.

While many travelers to the Park are drawn to the gorilla trekking adventures, it is also possible to track the golden monkeys, hike to the Gravesite of Dian Fossey. This was an American primatologist who dedicated almost two decades of her youth into studying and protecting the mountain gorillas. You will also hike the Virunga Volcanoes including the highest of them, watch lots of birds especially the ones endemic to the Albertine Rift Valley and Rwenzori Mountains.

Highlights

Track the mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park.
Visit the Gorilla Guardian Village.
Take a scenic helicopter flight from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park and back.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Volcanoes National Park via Helicopter flight.
Day 2: Gorilla trek & Tour of Gorilla Guardian Village.
Day 3: Departure from Volcanoes National Park via helicopter flight

Detailed Itinerary of 3 Days Volcanoes Helicopter safari

Day 1: Arrival in Volcanoes National Park via Helicopter flight

You will have breakfast at the hotel or depending on any other location in the City, then head to the Airport for flight check-in. You will leave for the Northern Province through the bustling City of Kigali, while taking in views of lakes, forests and rolling hills.

On landing at the One&Only Gorilla’s Nest helipad, you will be met by the private driver who will either lead you to the check-in area or transfer you to the booked lodge, if it is not One&Only Gorilla’s Nest. Having checked-in, you are free to spend the remainder of the day at leisure – either relaxing or choose to explore the nearby town of Musanze.

There are numerous options that include Musanze Cave tours, boat ride on the twin Lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo or biking tours.

Overnight:

Luxury: One & Only Gorilla’s Nest or Singita Kwitonda Lodge.
Midrange: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel.

Meals: Lunch and Dinner.

Flight time: 30 minutes.

Day 2: Gorilla trek & Tour of Gorilla Guardian Village

Today you will leave the lodge early and be transferred to the Park headquarters for the briefing, which will prepare you for the gorilla trekking trip. During this briefing, you will get acquainted with the dos and don’ts of the process, as well as the expectations of the forest.

Later after being allocated your gorilla group (based on age, physical abilities and individual interests), be driven to the trailhead and start the search for the mountain gorillas. This will last 1-4 hours before the mountain gorillas are finally found. Only one hour is offered for observation and photography. On your way back to the Lodge, you will meet more pleasant surprises in form of primates, birds and others.

After lunch (served at the Lodge), you will spend your evening discovering Rwanda’s culture by visiting the Gorilla Guardian Village. Learn how traditional Kings lived by visiting the King’s Palace replica, learn about traditional medicines used in treating common ailments, prepare and taste some of the local dishes, take part in the traditional dances and so much more. Retire for the evening and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at the Lodge.

Overnight:

Luxury: One & Only Gorilla’s Nest or Singita Kwitonda Lodge.
Midrange: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel.

Meals: Lunch and Dinner.

Day 3: Departure from Volcanoes National Park via helicopter flight

Relish a lovely morning in Volcanoes National Park as the sun rises over the Virunga Mountains. Take the Helicopter flight back to Kigali. Urabeho!!! See you soon.