The 3 days Senkwekwe tour takes you to Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage, the only orphanage center where you can find mountain gorillas. Senkwekwe Orphanage lies at the Virunga National Park (VNP) head offices and it can easily be reached from Mikeno Lodge. This orphanage takes its name from the late Senkwekwe silverback gorilla, a former leader of Rugendo gorilla family in the Virunga Park that was unfortunately killed by rebels in 2007.
Mountain gorillas are rare creatures, and they survive in only 3 countries; Uganda, Congo and Rwanda. The idea behind creation of Senkwekwe Orphanage arose following survival of Ndakasi and Ndeze orphaned gorillas. There was no ideal place to safely take care of these apes at the time hence establishment of Senkwekwe Center.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Kigali to Virunga National Park to visit Senkwekwe Centre
Meet and greet your experienced driver guide at Kigali Airport or after breakfast at a hotel in Kigali city. Get briefed about this short 3 days Senkwekwe tour, followed by Kigali city tour where you explore Gisozi memorial center for a deep insight into what occurred during the 1994 Rwanda genocide. From Kigali, start your 5-6 hours’ drive to the Virunga N. Park in Congo and arrive early to check into your accommodation.
Day 2: Full day tour at Senkwekwe Orphanage Centre
Rise up early and enjoy a hefty breakfast, after, leave for Senkwekwe Centre gorilla tour. Today, you will encounter different orphaned mountain gorillas, learn more about these apes behave, how the care takers have managed to make them survive, etc. The orphanage centre currently hosts gorillas such as Yalala, Ndeze, Ndakasi, Kaboko, Matabishi and others. Retreat from Senkwekwe Orphanage Center tour to enjoy lunch and also have some relaxation. Late in the afternoon/evening, there is an option of taking a walk around Virunga National Park to explore its hidden treasures.
Day 3: Senkwekwe to Kigali
Delicious breakfast served at the comfort of your lodge, after, check out and you will be exiting Virunga National Park. Drop off at the hotel for evening relaxation or at Kigali International Airport -KGL for departure.
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