The 9-day all-inclusive Rwanda safari offers an exceptional exploration of the country’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. This journey includes not only the exhilarating experience of tracking the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat but also the opportunity to observe chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and over ten additional primate species. Travelers can unwind at the serene Lake Kivu, engage with local cultural villages, and participate in wildlife game drives within Akagera National Park, where they may encounter lions, giraffes, leopards, hippos, and more. This expedition promises a comprehensive educational experience that highlights the beauty and ecological richness of Rwanda.
- Tour Highlights
Rwanda Gorilla Trek, Major Primates & Wildlife Tour – 9 Days
Day 1: Engage with your safari guide during a city tour of Kigali.
Day 2: Travel from Kigali to Akagera National Park for a game drive in search of the Big Five.
Day 3: Explore Nyungwe National Park.
Day 4: Participate in chimpanzee trekking and experience the canopy walk within Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Day 5: Follow the Colobus monkey trails in Nyungwe, then proceed to Lake Kivu.
Day 6: Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Kivu, followed by a drive to Volcanoes National Park.
Day 7: Embark on a trekking adventure to see gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
Day 8: Engage in golden monkey trekking.
Day 9: Visit Ibyachu Cultural Village and explore the Musanze Caves before driving to Kigali Airport to conclude the tour.
Primate Tracking in Rwanda
Rwanda is globally recognized for its gorillas residing in Volcanoes National Park; however, the nation also harbors chimpanzees as well as a variety of monkeys such as colobus, golden, L’Hoest’s, owl-faced, Dent’s, blue, and vervet monkeys, in addition to olive baboons and the nocturnal potto and bushbabies.
Chimpanzees inhabit Nyungwe National Park, with smaller populations found in the Gishwati Forest. These social animals thrive in large communities, foraging for food and occasionally hunting smaller mammals as they traverse their habitat daily. Each night, they construct new nests in the trees.
It is typical to hear the chimpanzees long before seeing them, as their vocalizations echo throughout the forest while they engage in communal calls that serve as a bonding ritual.
Day 1: Kigali City Tour
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide, who will provide an overview of your tour before taking you to your hotel for check-in.
Depending on your arrival time, you will then embark on a city tour, which includes a visit to the Gisozi Genocide Memorial Site. This portion of the tour lasts approximately four hours, allowing you to explore and understand the history of genocide in Rwanda and globally.
Next, you’ll head to Kimironko Market, one of the largest and busiest markets in Kigali, where you can sample and purchase various traditional Rwandan foods while interacting with local residents. Following that, you’ll visit the Nyarutarama Golf Club and continue on to the Belgium Memorial Site and the Richard Kandt Historical Museum. At these sites, you will stand at the very location where Kigali was established by a German colonial administrator in 1907. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant.
Accommodation options available (no meals included today)
Upmarket: Serena Kigali Hotel
Mid-range: Hotel Chez Lando Kigali
Lower Budget: Five to Five Hotel
Meals included: No meals included today.
Day 2: Akagera National Park – Game Drive
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a drive through the stunning landscapes of Rwanda toward Akagera National Park.
Once you arrive, enjoy lunch at the Akagera Game Lodge before heading out for a southern game drive along the Lake Ihema circuit. Here, you can spot a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, Masai giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, hippos, and Nile crocodiles, as well as many other mammal species. This game drive provides a fantastic opportunity to witness the beautiful scenery of gentle hills merging with lowland swamps and other water bodies.
In the evening, unwind by the lodge’s pool or take a leisurely stroll around the hotel grounds, where you might observe various bird species or experience the daily life of the local pastoral community.
Accommodation options:
Upmarket: Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Mid-range: Mantis Akagera Game Lodge
Lower Budget: Akagera Rhino Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 3: Nyungwe National Park – Chimp Tracking and Other Primates
Following an early breakfast, we will embark on a drive to Nyungwe Forest. Nyungwe is a lush 1,000-square-kilometer park located in southwestern Rwanda, housing more than 80 species of mammals, including 12 types of primates such as chimpanzees, who are our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. The trip to Nyungwe Forest National Park takes approximately six hours, offering continuous scenic views of the countryside. Upon arrival, you can check in and unwind for the remainder of the evening. Accommodation options.
Upmarket: Nyungwe Top View Hill Lodge
Mid-range: Chimpanzee Lodge Nyungwe
Lower Budget: Chimpanzee Lodge Nyungwe
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 4: Nyungwe Forest National Park – Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk to Observe More Monkeys
Today, your adventure includes trekking to see chimpanzees, one of the most renowned primate species within Nyungwe Forest National Park, which serves as the crown jewel of this forested destination. The day begins early with breakfast, followed by a drive to the park offices for a briefing. Then, you will enter the forest for an enriching chimpanzee trekking experience. Nyungwe Forest is home to large groups of habituated chimpanzees, with troops numbering between 400 to 500 individuals! This attraction is a remarkable tourism experience. Keep your camera ready, as you may encounter various other primate species and vibrant birds during your journey. Similar to your experience with the colobus monkeys, you will spend an hour observing the chimpanzees before heading back from the forest. You may also have the opportunity to observe the other 12 primate species and 300 bird species that call Nyungwe home. In addition to the chimpanzees, expect to see blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, endangered golden monkeys, and Angolan black and white colobus monkeys, among others.
As the last remaining mountain rainforest in East and Central Africa, Nyungwe is rich in biodiversity, featuring 260 species of trees and shrubs, over 200 species of orchids and giant lobelias, 275 different bird species (25 of which are endemic), along with colorful butterflies and 13 recorded primate species, representing 25% of Africa’s total.
The forest offers excellent walking trails, complemented by stunning waterfalls that enhance the tranquil atmosphere. In the afternoon, you will embark on an unforgettable canopy walk above the treetops, providing breathtaking panoramic views. Accommodation options await.
Upmarket: Nyungwe Top View Hill Lodge
Mid-range: Chimpanzee Lodge Nyungwe
Lower Budget: Chimpanzee Lodge Nyungwe
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 5: Colobus Monkeys in Nyungwe & Lake Kivu
Following breakfast, we will venture into Nyungwe Forest to observe the Nyungwe colobus monkeys at Uwinka.
The Uwinka troop, which is recognized as one of the largest in Africa with an estimated population of 400, offers an enriching experience. A stroll through the forest serves as an educational journey led by expert guides proficient in botany, ornithology, and the interrelationships among various species inhabiting the area.
After our exploration, we will proceed northward to Lake Kivu, enjoying the stunning vistas of the Virunga Mountains and the lush landscapes along our route. Spanning 2,370 square kilometers on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lake Kivu is classified among the African Great Lakes and stands as the largest lake in Rwanda. Formed by volcanic activity approximately 1 to 5 million years ago, the lake features an 860-kilometer shoreline adorned with exquisite resorts and beaches. It sustains a diverse ecosystem with six species of mammals, six species of reptiles, and five species of amphibians, alongside over 300 recorded bird species in the vicinity. The islands of Lake Kivu, complemented by rich vegetation and serene gardens, contribute to the area’s unique charm. This locale not only serves as an ideal spot for relaxation but also allows visitors to savor the freshest local fish during their stay in Rwanda.
As you indulge in the scenic, rolling hills for which Rwanda is famed, you may choose to kayak along the immaculate coastline, taking in the stunning backdrop of mountains and tranquil waters. Alternatively, a guided tour of Rubavu town (historically known as Gisenyi) and a visit to the Nyamyumba Hot Springs, renowned for their natural healing properties, are also available. The town walk will lead you to the vibrant open-air central market brimming with fresh fruits, providing opportunities to engage with local communities, enjoy refreshments in local bars and restaurants, and experience the evening life of the area. After an afternoon filled with either water activities or exploration of the town, you will have the chance to unwind by the shores of Lake Kivu, an exceptional spot to witness the breathtaking golden hour as the sun sets behind the Congolese highlands and the eastern forests of Rwanda.
Accommodation options available (all on full board basis)
Upmarket: Serena Lake Kivu Hotel
Moderate: Paradise Malahide.
Low Budget: Paradise Malahide.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 6: Boat Excursion on Lake Kivu and Journey to Volcanoes National Park
Begin the day at a leisurely pace before proceeding to the pier for a mid-morning boat excursion on Lake Kivu. This private voyage utilizes small, intimate motorboats, which facilitate access to the lakeshore while proving to be exemplary for capturing photographs of both people and nature. The cruise offers a serene passage towards the breathtaking islands and local fishing villages. Among the notable islands in Lake Kivu are Napoleon and Nyamirundi. For bird enthusiasts, Lake Kivu presents an exceptional opportunity, as over 300 avian species have been documented in this region. Be attentive for sightings of the African fish eagle, Grey-crowned crane, African openbill, Saddle-billed stork, Great white and pink-backed pelicans, Spur-winged goose, White-backed duck, and Great cormorants, as well as Water thick-knees, among various other species.
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After enjoying breakfast, you will proceed to the ORTPN offices for an informative briefing before embarking on your journey into the forest for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
This exhilarating trek through the scenic foothills of the Virunga Mountains offers breathtaking views in every direction. Abruptly, the path enters the national park, immersing trekkers in the unique intimacy of the rainforest, which teems with the melodies of vibrant birds and the chatter of the rare golden monkey, while fresh tracks of the elusive buffalo and elephants abound.
As you navigate through the forest, glimpses of the magnificent peaks emerge through breaks in the canopy, easily identifiable as some of the highest in Africa, heralding an ascent ahead. While gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, the opportunity to encounter these gentle giants makes the effort exceedingly rewarding. The excitement of encountering these magnificent creatures will overshadow the challenges posed by the trek.
Take the time to observe the gorillas, witnessing adult members nurturing their young, grooming, and resting as the playful infants frolic among the vines in an endearing display.
Accommodation options
Up-market: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Five Volcanoes Lodge
Moderate: Gorilla Solution Lodge
Low Budget: Hotel Muhabura
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 8: Volcanoes National Park – Golden Monkey Trekking
Enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge before embarking on a trek into the forest to seek out golden monkeys and various other primate species. This expedition will provide opportunities for exceptional birdwatching and encounters with additional primates, including colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys, among others.
Accommodation options
Up-market: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Five Volcanoes Lodge
Moderate: Gorilla Solution Lodge
Low Budget: Hotel Muhabura
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 9: Ibyachu Cultural Village Tour and Musanze Caves Visit, Transfer to Kigali to Conclude the Tour
Embark on a journey to Iby’iwacu village, where local inhabitants have successfully persuaded a group of former poachers to abandon their past and establish a traditional dance troupe that entertains tourists during cultural village tours. Known as The Intore, or The Heroes, this ancient celebration is rooted in the ceremonial dance of Rwandan monarchs. In addition to witnessing the vibrant traditional dances and drumming exhibitions, visitors may enter the local king’s traditional residence, observe an authentic herbalist preparing his remedies, or attempt to use traditional bows and arrows. Music and dance are integral to the cultural fabric of Rwanda, with the Ballet of Rwanda representing one of Africa’s most vigorous yet lesser-known musical traditions. Once performed solely for the royal court, this dance is executed by men adorned in grass wigs and bearing spears, with small bells attached to their feet that create a melodious rhythm alongside the music. The ‘Dance of Heroes’ commemorates returning warriors, celebrating their triumphs in conflict. Complex choreography showcases the performers’ ability to transition smoothly from side to side, combining agility and elegance with fierce intensity. The Musanze Caves, a recently added attraction to Rwanda’s tourism offerings, stretch approximately 1.25 miles underground, believed to have formed from basaltic lava from the Bisoke and Sabyinyo volcanoes. To ensure visitor safety, well-constructed walkways and stairs are provided where necessary. Your tour guide will arrange for timely transportation to Kigali Airport, ensuring you arrive in advance for your scheduled departure home.
Included
Transportation from the meeting location to the departure point.
One expert local driver or guide.
All accommodations provided throughout the tour.
Meals specified in the itinerary.
Entrance fees for parks.
Permits for gorilla viewing.
Permits for chimpanzee viewing.
Fees for guiding services.
Activities listed in the itinerary.
Excluded
International flight (arrangements can be made if necessary).
Visa and personal insurance costs.
Personal expenses, such as travel insurance.
Communication costs, which encompass laundry, emails, faxes, and phone calls.
Beverages, including premium champagne, fine spirits, beer, and wine during meals.
Meals not listed in the itinerary.
Gratuities.
Any item or activity not explicitly mentioned in the tour package.
