On day 2 of your 7-Day Rwanda Primates and Dian Fossey Hiking Safari, you’ll rise early, energized for an exciting day ahead. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, pack your essentials for the day’s gorilla trekking adventure, including your packed lunch. Your safari driver will then escort you to the park headquarters, where you’ll join other trekkers for a pre-trekking briefing at 8:00 a.m. Here, you'll be informed about the dos and don’ts when interacting with gorillas, ensuring a safe and respectful experience. Accompanied by knowledgeable local guides and armed rangers, you’ll venture deep into the lush wilderness of Volcanoes National Park in search of a habituated gorilla family.
The trek to find the gorillas can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on their location. Once you encounter the gorilla family, you’ll have the unforgettable opportunity to spend a magical hour observing them in their natural habitat, watching their interactions, feeding, and playful behavior—all while maintaining a respectful distance.
After this remarkable experience, you’ll trek back to the starting point, where your safari driver will be waiting to take you back to your lodge for a well-deserved dinner and an evening of relaxation. If time permits before sunset, you can opt for an additional activity, such as visiting the scenic twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo or exploring the Ibyiwacu cultural village, offering insights into Rwandan traditions.