As dawn breaks over Kigali, we immerse ourselves in the city’s tapestry, with a poignant visit to the Genocide Memorial site. This hallowed ground stands testament to the dark chapter of 1994, weaving tales of Rwanda’s journey from its pre-colonial days to its rise from the ashes of tragedy. Witness the city’s resurgence, a heartwarming tale of human tenacity and resilience.

From there, a breathtaking journey unfolds through Rwanda’s signature terraced landscapes, guiding us northwest towards Musanze, the heart of gorilla country. This vibrant town, a stone’s throw from Uganda, pulses with life and cultural intricacies.

Singita Kwitonda Lodge, situated on the edge of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, is a testament to luxury and conservation. This eco-conscious lodge offers guests an immersive gorilla trekking experience while ensuring minimal environmental impact. Its exquisite design blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, featuring eight sumptuous suites that offer unparalleled comfort and breathtaking views. With farm-to-table dining, a serene spa, and tailored experiences, Singita Kwitonda Lodge provides a unique connection to nature and luxury in the midst of Rwanda’s majestic landscape.

After your morning wake-up call and breakfast transfer by road in a 4WD Land Cruiser and report to the park headquarters, for gorilla trekking formalities and briefing by the Volcanoes National Park’s guides on the gorillas’ etiquette. The gorilla group that you will visit will depend on the assignment of travellers to the habituated gorilla groups. Park rangers have already left to locate the habituated Gorilla groups that are accessible to visitors. You will be assigned to a specific group of gorillas. Groups of trekkers will have a maximum of eight visitors per gorilla family. Your trek will vary in length depending on which gorilla group you have been assigned to and will commence at about 7,000 feet of altitude in the upper terraced slopes of the volcano.

Soon you will enter the forest of bamboo and thick undergrowth. You follow paths and the walking is steep but not overly strenuous. Nothing can prepare one for the impact of encountering a fully grown silverback gorilla: up to three times as bulky as the average man, yet remarkably peaceful and tolerant of human visitors. There are no words to describe the thrill of recognition attached to staring deep into the liquid brown eyes of these gentle giants, which share some 97% of their genes with humans. After locating your assigned Gorilla group you will spend one hour in their company before retracing your steps back down the volcano slopes.

You’ll return to the lodge for lunch before the option to pay a visit to The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund in Ruhengeri, Rwanda, is a pioneering conservation initiative dedicated to the preservation of endangered mountain gorillas. Established through a significant contribution by Ellen DeGeneres, the campus serves as a hub for research, education, and conservation efforts. It features state-of-the-art facilities for scientists and students, aiming to foster a deep connection with nature and ensure the survival of gorillas in their natural habitat, while promoting sustainable practices and community engagement in conservation efforts.

As morning unfolds, indulge in a leisurely breakfast, each bite echoing the memories of your adventures. Today, the road beckons again, winding back to the vibrant heart of Kigali, with the vast horizon pointing towards Kigali International Airport and the next chapter of your journey.

Yet, the whispers of the wilderness might entice you to linger a little longer. Consider an encore—a second day immersed in the park’s embrace, a chance to forge another profound connection with a different gorilla family.