This 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps and Cultural Tour by Unique Africa Tours is designed for travelers who want to experience the best of Rwanda’s wildlife and cultural heritage in style. From the vibrant city of Kigali to the misty jungles of Nyungwe, the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, and the iconic Volcanoes National Park, you will encounter chimpanzees, gorillas, and golden monkeys while also engaging in authentic cultural experiences. Each day is carefully curated with a blend of adventure and luxury comfort, making it an unforgettable safari holiday.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Your journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s charming capital. On arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly received by your private driver-guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a guided city tour that includes a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, art galleries, and local craft markets. In the evening, you will enjoy a welcome dinner featuring gourmet cuisine while overlooking the city’s lights. This first night provides a perfect balance of relaxation and cultural immersion.
Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel, Kigali Marriott Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven Kigali
Meals: (Dinner)
Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
After a luxury breakfast, embark on a scenic drive southwards to Nyungwe National Park. Along the way, visit the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza and the Ethnographic Museum in Huye to learn about Rwanda’s royal and cultural history. Arrive at Nyungwe in the late afternoon, where you will check into your luxury lodge surrounded by lush tea plantations and forested hills. Spend the evening unwinding with a spa session or sipping fine wine on your private balcony while taking in the breathtaking views.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guesthouse.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe
Today begins with an early breakfast before heading into the forest for a thrilling chimpanzee trekking experience. Led by expert rangers, you will follow the sounds of the chimps and observe their fascinating social interactions as they leap and swing through the trees. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you will experience the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walk, a suspended bridge offering panoramic views of the rainforest, birds, and primates.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guesthouse.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Colobus Monkeys and Cultural Encounters
After breakfast, set out for a colobus monkey trek where you will encounter large groups of these striking primates in the lush forest. Later, take a guided nature walk to discover unique plant species, orchids, and colorful birdlife. In the afternoon, visit a nearby tea plantation to learn about Rwanda’s tea production and enjoy a tasting session. Return to your lodge in the evening for a gourmet dinner, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the forest.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guesthouse.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Nyungwe – Lake Kivu (Kibuye)
After breakfast, depart for the beautiful Lake Kivu in Kibuye, one of Africa’s great lakes. The journey offers panoramic views of rolling hills and green terraced landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your lakeside luxury lodge and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Activities may include a private boat cruise to explore the islands, kayaking, or simply enjoying the sandy beaches. End the day with a candlelit dinner featuring freshly caught fish from the lake.
Accommodation: Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Cormoran Lodge, Moriah Hill Resort.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After a leisurely breakfast overlooking Lake Kivu, drive northwards to Volcanoes National Park. The majestic Virunga Volcanoes come into view as you approach, creating a dramatic landscape. Upon arrival, check into your luxury lodge nestled at the foothills of the mountains. In the afternoon, enjoy a cultural visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you will engage with local communities through dance, drumming, and storytelling. Return to your lodge for an exquisite dinner and an evening by the fireplace.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Virunga Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
This is the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, you will be driven to the park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your gorilla trek. The trek can take between 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location, but the reward is an unforgettable hour in the company of these gentle giants. Watching gorillas interact in their natural habitat is one of the most profound wildlife experiences in the world. Return to your lodge for a late lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps enjoying a spa treatment or simply soaking in the mountain views.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Virunga Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Golden Monkey Trekking – Return to Kigali
On your final day, enjoy breakfast before heading out for golden monkey trekking in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. These playful primates are fascinating to watch, offering a lighter and fun-filled wildlife encounter after the intense gorilla trek. After the trek, return to your lodge for refreshments before driving back to Kigali. Depending on your departure schedule, you may enjoy last-minute shopping or a farewell lunch before your transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel, Kigali Marriott Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven Kigali
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)
End of the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps and Cultural Tour.
The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps and Cultural Tour cost includes;
- Airport Transfers.
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary.
- 1 Gorilla Permit per person.
- 1 Golden Monkey Permit per person.
- 1 Chimpanzee Permit per person.
- 1 Colobus Monkey Permit per person.
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Game Drive in Akagera.
- Tour Guide Allowances.
- Bottled Water in the car.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
The tour cost excludes; Visa fees, International air fare, souvenirs, tips to local guides, personal shopping bills, personal travel insurance, alcoholic drinks, telephone usage and items not listed as included in the cost.