Experience Rwanda’s most awe-inspiring natural wonder in the lap of luxury with this 3-day helicopter tour to Volcanoes National Park. This premium itinerary is designed for travelers who value exclusivity, efficiency, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. By avoiding long road transfers and opting for private helicopter flights, you’ll spend more time immersed in the beauty of the Virunga Mountains and less time in transit. This journey combines exhilarating gorilla trekking with elegant accommodation, fine dining, and personalized service at some of Africa’s most acclaimed eco-luxury lodges. Whether it’s sipping champagne at the foot of volcanoes or coming face-to-face with mountain gorillas, this curated adventure delivers Rwanda at its most refined.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Helicopter Flight to Volcanoes National Park
Your luxury journey begins with a VIP welcome at Kigali International Airport, where a private assistant will fast-track you through customs and immigration. After a short transfer to the helipad, board your private helicopter for a scenic flight to Volcanoes National Park. During the 30-minute journey, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Rwanda’s patchwork hills, lakes, and the towering volcanoes that rise in the distance.
Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by your lodge’s dedicated team and escorted to your luxurious suite or villa. Spend the afternoon at your leisure either relaxing with a signature spa treatment or enjoying a light exploration of the surrounding area. In the late afternoon, you’ll have the option to visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where local traditions come alive through music, dance, and storytelling. This immersive cultural encounter offers a respectful and enriching introduction to the people who live alongside the park’s wildlife.
Dinner is a culinary affair expect multi-course meals crafted by top chefs, often with farm-to-table ingredients and exquisite wine pairings. Retreat to your suite for a night of serene rest amid the sounds of the forest.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Rise early for a nourishing breakfast before departing to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing by expert trackers and rangers. Today is the highlight of your journey a gorilla trekking expedition through thick montane rainforest. Trek durations vary depending on the gorilla family’s location, but every group is carefully matched to guest fitness levels. Along the way, your guide will interpret signs of the forest and wildlife until you reach your designated gorilla family.
For one awe-inspiring hour, you’ll observe these gentle giants as they go about their daily routines playing, feeding, grooming, and interacting. The experience is emotionally moving and offers an unmatched connection to one of the world’s most endangered species.
After the trek, return to your lodge for a celebratory lunch and well-earned rest. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may opt for a deep tissue massage or volcanic stone treatment at the lodge spa, enjoy forest bathing on a guided walk, or simply sip cocktails by a crackling fire with views of the volcanoes.
Dinner tonight is another refined experience perhaps served under the stars or in a private dining setting. A perfect end to a day that will stay with you forever.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Optional Golden Monkey Trek or Dian Fossey Hike – Helicopter Return to Kigali – Departure
Your final morning offers a choice of rewarding activities. For the active and conservation-minded, embark on a guided hike to the Dian Fossey Research Center and the historic Karisoke site, learning about the pioneering primatologist’s legacy and the continued efforts to protect gorillas. Alternatively, choose a Golden Monkey trek, a shorter but highly rewarding experience where you’ll observe these vibrant and playful primates in their bamboo habitat.
After returning to the lodge and freshening up, enjoy a farewell brunch before your helicopter transfer back to Kigali. Depending on your flight time, you may choose to take a short guided city tour including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, or shop for high-quality crafts at local boutiques. You’ll then be transferred to the airport for your departure, concluding your luxurious Rwandan adventure.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 3 Days Helicopter Tour to Volcanoes National Park.
The 3 Days Helicopter Tour to Volcanoes National Park cost includes;
- 1 Gorilla Permit per person.
- 1 Golden Monkey Permit per person.
- Airport Transfers.
- Accommodation and Meals as per the itinerary.
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Domestic Helicopter Flights.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Services of a professional English-speaking tour guide.
- Bottled water in the car.
- Tour Guide Allowances.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
However, the cost excludes; International air fare, visa fees, personal shopping bills, tips to local guides, personal medical and travel insurance, items of personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, souvenirs, items not listed as included etc.