7-Day Rwanda Chimpanzee & Gorilla Safari

Introduction

The Land of a Thousand Hills: From Ancient Rainforests to the Primates of the Mist

Welcome to Rwanda, a scenically stunning country of endless rolling green hills and ancient rainforests. This 7-day odyssey is meticulously designed to showcase the premier primate highlights of this fascinating nation. Experience a “primate’s eye view” from the suspension bridges of Nyungwe Forest, encounter our nearest relatives—the chimpanzees—and stand face-to-face with the iconic mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park.

Safari Highlights

• Kigali City Tour: Understand Rwanda’s journey from its complex past to its vibrant, modern present.
• Nyungwe Forest: Traverse East Africa’s premier Canopy Walk high above the rainforest floor.
• Chimpanzee Tracking: Experience an intimate encounter with wild chimpanzees in their ancient habitat.
• Lake Kivu: Relax on the white sand inland beaches of the Albertine Rift.
• Volcanoes National Park: Home to the real “Gorillas in the Mist” and the majestic Virunga volcanoes.
• Cultural Immersions: Visit the National Museum in Butare for deep insights into traditional Rwandan life.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – The Heart of Rwanda

Welcome to the land of a thousand hills! Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your boutique accommodation located on a quiet, leafy street in the heart of downtown Kigali.

• Afternoon: If time allows, you are free to explore the city. Visit the vibrant craft markets to browse local pottery, intricate carvings, and traditional “Agaseke” weaving.
• Accommodation: Heaven Boutique Hotel (Residence Queen Room).
• Meal Plan: Room Only (Activities and meals today at your own expense).

Day 2: Journey to Nyungwe Forest via the Genocide Memorial

• Morning: Meet your guide and visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This is a profound place of commemoration for the victims of the 1994 genocide—an emotional but essential experience to understand the resilience of modern Rwanda.
• Afternoon: Drive toward Nyungwe Forest. En route, stop in Butare to visit the National Museum, home to one of Africa’s finest ethnographic collections.
• Evening: Arrive at Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of the world’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforests.
• Accommodation: Top View Hill Hotel.
• Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking & The Canopy Walk

• Morning: Venture deep into the rainforest with expert guides in search of chimpanzees. Observe these fascinating creatures as they interact, play, and forage in their natural routine.
• Afternoon: Head high into the forest canopy on a network of suspension bridges. This 1.5-hour walk over a deep gorge provides a unique perspective of the lush vegetation and the 13 primate species that call this forest home.
• Accommodation: Top View Hill Hotel.
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 4: Scenic Shores of Lake Kivu

• Morning: Travel north along the shores of Lake Kivu, which forms a spectacular natural border between Rwanda and the DR Congo.
• Afternoon: Arrive at the stunning inland beaches of Lake Kivu. Choose to relax at the lodge, take a stroll along the shoreline, or opt for a half-day kayaking tour to explore hidden bays and islands.
• Accommodation: Rushel Kivu (Master Room).
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner.

Day 5: Gateway to the Virungas – Volcanoes National Park

• Morning: Continue your journey toward Volcanoes National Park. This park protects the Rwandan sector of the Virunga mountain range and its five iconic volcanoes.
• Afternoon: Arrive at the gateway to the mountain gorillas. Optional activities include tracking rare golden monkeys, volcano hikes, or a visit to the Dian Fossey research center to learn about the legacy of gorilla conservation.
• Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 6: Gorilla Tracking (Optional Highlight)

• The Experience: Standing in the presence of endangered mountain gorillas is a life-changing event. In the company of experienced park rangers, you will track a habituated family group through tangled vines and bamboo forests.
• The Encounter: Once located, spend exactly one hour quietly observing these gentle giants. The trek can take between 1 to 7 hours depending on the movement of the gorillas.
• Note: Gorilla Tracking is an optional activity at an additional fee of USD $1,500 per person.
• Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner.

Day 7: Return to Kigali & Departure

• Morning: Enjoy your final morning in the volcanic highlands before your guide drives you back to Kigali.
• Afternoon: Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time for last-minute souvenir shopping before your transfer to Kigali International Airport.
• Travel Note: Departure flights should be booked for 3:00 PM or later.
• Meal Plan: Breakfast.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Quick Safari Facts

• Accommodation: Mid-range en-suite lodges chosen for their comfort, character, and prime locations.
• Budget Tip: Gorilla permits in Rwanda are $1,500. We can arrange for you to track in Uganda (Bwindi) for $700 if preferred—please ask your consultant for details.
• Climate: Expect rainforest conditions (humid and wet) and cooler temperatures in the volcanic highlands of the north.

Step into the mist of the Virungas. Contact Ranger Lead Travel Africa to book your 7-Day Rwandan adventure today.