The magnificent Virunga Lodge, back across the border in Rwanda, is perched high on a ridge and has stunning views of the volcanoes and the twin lakes Bulera and Ruhonda. Virunga Lodge is the premier luxury destination for tracking endangered mountain gorillas during our Rwanda safaris, and a respected supporter of the local community. An encounter with some of the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas in the enchanting bamboo forests of Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans is a mesmerizing experience. In addition to experiencing the region’s indigenous wildlife, while at our Gahinga Lodge you will meet the region’s indigenous people, the batwa. Experience their culture in a guided, interactive tour of their history and customs, learning the ancient forest survival skills that have been passed down from generation to generation by the tribe elders. Tracking the golden monkeys in the forest of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park will be one of the highlights of your stay in Uganda

24 APRIL

Your Volcanoes Safaris representative will welcome you upon arrival to Kigali and transfer you to your hotel. If guests arrive prior to mid-day we are able to take everybody on a city tour and to visit the genocide memorial. Group dinner at Republika Lounge and overnight at Kigali Serena Hotel.

25 APRIL

After a fresh and local buffet breakfast, depart for Virunga Lodge located high up in the hills of the Virunga Mountains, approximately a 3-hour drive from Kigali. After checking-in to our iconic Virunga Lodge, enjoy a delicious lunch and then embark on a hike down to the twin lakes surrounding the lodge. This hike takes you through small villages, by a local community center, and past many young students walking to and from class. Dinner and overnight at Virunga Lodge.

26 APRIL

Early wake-up call and drive to the park headquarters by 7:00 am. This afternoon track the remarkable mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, the dense and almost impenetrable Virunga Mountains. Dinner and overnight at Virunga Lodge.

27 APRIL

Spend this morning at your leisure, perhaps by scheduling your complimentary massage or by visiting any number of the nearby Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust activities. After lunch the group will set-off to cross the boarder into Uganda and arrive at our Mount Gahinga Lodge. Approximate travel time: 2 hours. Dinner and overnight at Mount Gahinga Lodge.

28 APRIL

After breakfast set off for a walk through the local fields to the Batwa community settlement. On your walk you will gain insight into the plight of the marginalized Batwa Community and learn what Volcanoes Safaris is doing to improve their lifestyle and preserve their culture. You are welcome to ask the Batwa questions about their traditional lifestyle, as they explain their religious, marriage and courtship customs. Dinner and overnight at Mount Gahinga Lodge.

29 APRIL

After breakfast, depart Mount Gahinga Lodge for Kigali. The scenic drive back to Kigali will take approximately 4 hours. Please book your international flights out of Kigali from mid-afternoon or later. End of Services.