From Virunga Mountains to Canvas: 1 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Art Experience

Transportation
Private 4x4 Safari vehicle or PRADO
Maximum Altitude
2,500 - 3,500 meters
Fitness level
Moderate to challenging
Departure from
Pick-up/drop-off at your hotel or accommodation in Kigali, Rwanda.
Tour type
Customizable Wildlife & Cultural Tour
Language
English, French
Destinations
Musanze, Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Activities
Gorilla Trekking, Painting Session
Trip Type
Cultural, High Altitude, Nature Friendly

Overview

A One-Day Wildlife & Creativity Adventure With Bonnie’s Tours & Adventures – Musanze, Rwanda

Discover one of Rwanda’s most powerful and creative experiences; a perfect combination of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and an inspiring art workshop with a local wildlife artist.

This immersive one-day package takes you from the misty slopes of the Virunga Mountains, where Rwanda’s endangered mountain gorillas live, to a peaceful art studio in Musanze where you paint your journey onto canvas.

This experience blends adventure, wildlife, culture, and creativity, designed for travelers who want deeper meaning from their trip to Rwanda. Guided by Bonnie’s Tours & Adventures, a woman-led local enterprise, you enjoy a fully supported and responsible experience that uplifts local communities.

Perfect for travelers seeking:
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda • Volcanoes National Park tours • Cultural experiences in Musanze • Community-based tourism • Creative travel experiences

Highlights

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park – A once in a lifetime encounter with Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.
Stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and lush rainforest.
Participate in a live painting class – Learn painting with Rigobert, a talented wildlife artist from Musanze.
Eco-friendly, woman-led experience supporting community tourism.
Small-group, personalized experience for comfort and depth.

04:30 AM :

Early Morning Departure from Kigali

Your adventure starts with an early pick-up from your hotel in Kigali. Enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour drive through the captivating "land of a thousand hills" to Musanze, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park (VNP).

07:00 AM :

Arrival and Briefing at Park Headquarters

Upon arrival at the VNP headquarters in Kinigi, you will be welcomed with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Park rangers will provide a detailed briefing on the rules and guidelines for gorilla trekking. You will be assigned to a specific habituated gorilla family for your trek.

08:00 AM :

The Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Embark on a guided hike into the lush, misty rainforest of the Virunga Mountains. The trek can vary in length (from 1 to 6 hours) depending on the gorillas' movements and location. Trek through dense vegetation with expert trackers and porters (available for hire) to find these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Time Varies - The Awe-Inspiring Encounter

Once located, you will spend one incredible hour observing a mountain gorilla family. Witness their social interactions, from powerful silverbacks to playful juveniles, creating a deeply moving, once-in-a-lifetime experience. You are allowed to take photos (without flash) to capture these moments.

Afternoon :

Lunch and Art Immersion

After your descent from the mountains, return to the park headquarters and enjoy lunch in Musanze town. The afternoon is dedicated to unleashing your creativity:

Live Painting Workshop at SAWA: Head to the Studio of African Wildlife Art (SAWA) for an engaging live painting class or personalized workshop. Under the guidance of local artists like founder Rigobert Uwiduhaye, you can channel the day's wildlife experiences onto a canvas and take home your personal artwork.

04:00 PM onwards :

Return Journey

End your artistic and wildlife adventure in the late afternoon and start the drive back to Kigali. You will be dropped off at your hotel or the airport in the evening, filled with memories and a unique piece of Rwandan art.

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Rwanda Gorilla Permit: One non-refundable gorilla trekking permit per person is included in the package price. This permit (valued at USD $1,500) grants access to the park, funds conservation efforts, and provides the experience with a habituated gorilla family.
Ground Transport: Comfortable round-trip transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle or PRADO from your accommodation in Kigali to the park headquarters in Kinigi and the art experience location in Musanze, with an English-French speaking driver/guide.
Snacks and Water: Packed Local snacks and bottled drinking water for the duration of the journey are usually provided.
Art Experience Costs: All costs associated with the afternoon's artistic activities, such as a painting workshop or gallery entry fees, are covered.

Cost Excludes

International Flights & Visas: The cost of international airfare to and from Kigali International Airport (KGL), as well as any required Rwandan entry visas, are the responsibility of the traveler.
Accommodation: Pre- or post-safari accommodation in Kigali is not included in this specific one-day package but can be arranged at the time of booking with Bonnie's Tours.
Personal Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance, which should cover potential trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage, is highly recommended and must be arranged by the traveler.
Tips & Gratuities: Tipping the park rangers, guides, driver, and porters is a customary way to show appreciation for their services. These voluntary tips are not included in the package price.
Porters: While highly recommended to assist with carrying gear and navigating challenging terrain, the cost to hire a porter (approx. $15 USD cash per trek) is an optional personal expense.
Personal Items & Souvenirs: Lunch and extra drinks beyond the provided water, Alcoholic beverages, Laundry services, Purchases of personal art or gifts from local galleries or workshops.
Trekking Gear: Personal packing items such as sturdy waterproof hiking boots, rain jackets, gardening gloves, and insect repellent must be brought by the traveler.

FAQs

Expand all

How do I book the tour and secure a gorilla permit?

It is crucial to book your tour and gorilla permit well in advance (ideally 3-4 months ahead) due to high demand and limited daily permits. Bonnie’s Tours & Adventures, can handle all permit acquisitions on your behalf to ensure availability for your chosen date.

What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking?

The minimum age limit for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is strictly 15 years old.

How physically fit do I need to be?

A moderate to high level of fitness is recommended. The trek involves hiking through dense forest on steep, muddy, and uneven terrain at high altitudes, which can be challenging. The duration of the hike can vary from one to six hours depending on the gorillas’ location.

What should I wear/pack for the trek?

Pack lightweight, waterproof gear in neutral colors (greens, browns, greys). Essential items include:

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support.
Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers to protect against stinging nettles and insects.
A waterproof rain jacket/poncho.
A small, waterproof backpack for water, snacks, and personal items.
Insect repellent and sunscreen

Can I hire a porter?

Yes, hiring a porter is highly recommended and supports the local community. Porters assist with carrying your daypack and navigating difficult terrain for a small fee, typically around $15–$20 USD.

How long do I spend with the gorillas?

Once you locate a gorilla family, you are permitted to spend a maximum of one hour with them to minimize behavioral disturbance and the risk of disease transmission.

What are the rules when with the gorillas?

Rangers enforce strict rules for the safety of both visitors and gorillas:

Maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters at all times.
Keep your voice low and avoid rapid movements.
Flash photography is strictly prohibited.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke near the gorillas.
If a gorilla charges (a rare warning behavior), stand still, look away, and follow your guide’s instructions.
Do not trek if you are sick with a cold, flu, or other contagious illness, as gorillas are highly susceptible to human diseases.

Do I need prior art experience for the painting session?

No, the art workshops are designed for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists. The focus is on a fun, relaxing, and culturally immersive experience.

What kind of art activities can I expect?

Live painting classes and interactions with local Rwandan artists at locations at Studio of African Wildlife Art (SAWA).

Can I buy art there?

es, most art centers and galleries offer unique handmade items for purchase. Buying art directly from the artists is a great way to support the local economy and take home a meaningful souvenir.

From Virunga Mountains to Canvas: 1 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Art Experience

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

FAQs

Map

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Trip Info

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