This well-rounded safari combines Rwanda’s top wildlife and cultural highlights into one unforgettable journey. From the bustling capital of Kigali to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, you’ll track chimpanzees, gorillas, and golden monkeys in their natural rainforest habitats. Along the way, experience Rwanda’s rich history, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality. Ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and insight into Rwandan culture.
1 Day: Transfer from the Airport to the Hotel
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, a company guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
Standard Option: Chez Lando Hotel
Midrange Option: Mille Collines Hotel
Midrange Option: Kigali Serena Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Day 2, Transfer to Nyungwe via King’s Palace Museum
Meet your guide after breakfast at the hotel, then transfer to Nyungwe National Park with a stop at the King’s Palace Museum to learn more about Rwandan culture. Enjoy lunch en route and arrive at the national park to relax at your hotel, awaiting dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Standard Option: Ken Barham Guest House
- Midrange Option: Maravilla Kivu Resort
- Luxury Option: Munazi Eco Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3, Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk
Today, after enjoying your early morning African coffee, leave your hotel to explore the natural forest of Nyungwe, known for hosting 13 primate species. Transfer to the park for a briefing before embarking on a chimpanzee trek. You’ll have an hour to observe them. After finishing the chimpanzee trek, have lunch, then proceed to the Canopy Walk, where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the park from the suspended metal walkway at 60 meters height. Afterward, return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Standard Option: Ken Barham Guest House
- Midrange Option: Maravilla Kivu Resort
- Luxury Option: Munazi Eco Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4, Transfer to Lake Kivu – Boat Ride
After breakfast, begin your journey to Lake Kivu in northwest Rwanda, traveling through scenic villages and lush green countryside. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy a delicious lunch while taking in the tranquil surroundings. In the afternoon, embark on a relaxing boat ride across the lake, offering beautiful views of nearby islands and charming lakeside villages. This peaceful experience provides the perfect introduction to the region’s natural beauty, setting the stage for your overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Standard option: The Palm Beach Resort
- Midrange option: Kivu Paradise Resort
- Luxury option: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5, Coffee Tour – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
In the morning, begin your day with a scenic visit to a coffee plantation near Lake Kivu, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour and learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Take part in a tasting session and savor the rich flavors of freshly brewed local coffee. After lunch by the lakeside, depart for a picturesque drive north toward Musanze. Along the way, take in the beautiful landscapes as you approach the foothills of Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll arrive in the evening for an overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Standard option:The Garden Palace Hotel
- Midrange option: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury option: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
In the morning, after breakfast, head to the Volcanoes National Park office in Ruhengeri. Upon arrival at the park headquarters, you will receive a briefing on the rules to follow and not to follow while enjoying park tea. Then, transfer to the starting point of your gorilla trekking safari. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park can last more than 3 hours, and once you find them, spend an hour observing them play and feed their young. Return to the hotel for lunch, rest, and overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Standard option:The Garden Palace Hotel
- Midrange option: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury option: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7, Golden Monkey Trek and Cultural Visit
After an early morning breakfast, you will be transferred to the park headquarters for a briefing before heading out for golden monkey trekking. Just like with gorilla trekking, you’ll follow established guidelines and enjoy an unforgettable hour observing the playful golden monkeys in their natural habitat. After the trek, return for a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll experience traditional Rwandan culture, music, and dance. Later in the day, return to your accommodation for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation Option:
- Standard option: The Garden Palace Hotel
- Midrange option: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury option: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8, Return to Kigali – City Tour – Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Kigali, enjoying the scenic journey through Rwanda’s rolling hills. Upon arrival, take part in a guided city tour that includes a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and a stop at a local craft market for souvenir shopping. After lunch at a local restaurant, you will be transferred to the airport in time for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
End of the Service
Included:
- Transport into a 4×4 safari vehicle
- 1 Gorilla permit per person
- Accommodation and meals
- Canopy walk
- Services of an English-speaking guide/driver
- Mineral water during the safari
- All activities specified in the program
Not included:
- Personal items
- Airfare and Visa
- Alcoholic beverages
- Travel insurance
- Tips and personal expenses
- Optional activities not listed