The 9 Days Rwanda Primates and Wildlife Safari by Unique Africa Tours is an exclusive journey through Rwanda’s most remarkable destinations. From the open savannahs of Akagera National Park, home to the Big Five, to the lush rainforests of Nyungwe where chimpanzees thrive, and finally to the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park for the ultimate gorilla trekking experience, this safari combines it all. Guests will also enjoy cultural encounters and moments of pure relaxation by the tranquil Lake Kivu. Each day is carefully curated to balance thrilling activities with luxurious comfort, ensuring that every aspect of the journey reflects elegance, exclusivity, and authenticity.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your professional driver-guide and transferred to your luxury hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a short Kigali city tour including the Kigali Genocide Memorial and artisan markets. The evening will be spent at leisure, relaxing by the pool or enjoying a fine dining experience at your hotel. This first night prepares you for the adventure ahead while immersing you in Rwanda’s warmth and hospitality.
Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel, Kigali Marriott Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven Kigali
Meals: (Dinner)
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park
After a hearty breakfast, you will drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park. The journey takes around two and a half hours and offers beautiful views of rolling hills and local villages. On arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch with sweeping views of the wilderness. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive where you may encounter giraffes, elephants, zebras, and antelopes. Return to your lodge in the evening for a relaxed dinner by the campfire.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: Full Day Safari in Akagera
Wake up early for a full day exploring the northern plains of Akagera. This is the best area to spot the Big Five; lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes. You will also see hippos basking along Lake Ihema and an incredible array of birdlife. A picnic lunch will be served in the bush before continuing your adventure through the park’s diverse landscapes of savannah, wetlands, and woodlands. Return to your lodge in the evening for cocktails and dinner overlooking the park.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
After breakfast, enjoy a final short game drive as you exit Akagera, then head back to Kigali for a cultural stop at the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza. Continue to Nyungwe National Park, one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. On arrival, check into your luxury lodge nestled among tea plantations with breathtaking views of the forest. Spend the evening at leisure, enjoying a gourmet dinner and relaxing in serene surroundings.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guesthouse.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe
Rise early for a sumptuous breakfast before heading into the forest for chimpanzee trekking. Guided by expert rangers, you will follow the calls of the chimps and observe their lively interactions as they swing and play in the treetops. After the trek, return to your lodge for a warm lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, a suspended bridge that offers thrilling aerial views of the rainforest and its abundant flora and fauna.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guesthouse.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Colobus Monkey Trekking and Nature Trails
Today you will embark on a colobus monkey trek. These striking black-and-white monkeys live in large groups, making for an exciting and lively encounter. Afterward, enjoy a guided nature walk through Nyungwe’s lush trails, discovering rare orchids, butterflies, and bird species. Return to your lodge in the afternoon for relaxation, perhaps enjoying a tea tasting or a luxurious spa session. Dinner will be served at your lodge with panoramic views of the forested hills.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guesthouse
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Nyungwe – Lake Kivu (Kibuye)
After breakfast, drive to the stunning Lake Kivu in Kibuye. The journey offers scenic views of terraced hillsides and peaceful villages. On arrival, check into your lakeside luxury lodge. The afternoon is spent on a private boat cruise exploring the lake’s islands and tranquil waters. Alternatively, you may relax at the lodge, enjoy kayaking, or simply unwind on the sandy shores. The day ends with a fresh lakeside dinner featuring fish from Lake Kivu.
Accommodation: Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Cormoran Lodge, Moriah Hill Resort
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before driving north to Volcanoes National Park. The Virunga Volcanoes come into view as you approach, creating a dramatic backdrop. Check into your luxury lodge and relax with uninterrupted views of the misty mountains. In the afternoon, you may visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to experience Rwanda’s traditions through dance, drumming, and storytelling. Return to your lodge for a gourmet dinner in preparation for gorilla trekking the following day.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Virunga Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park – Departure
This is the highlight of your safari. After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before setting out on your gorilla trek. The trek may take between 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location, but the reward is an extraordinary hour observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. Later, drive back to Kigali for your departure flight or optional overnight stay.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)
End of the 9 Days Rwanda Primates and Wildlife Safari.
The 9 Days Rwanda Primates and Wildlife Safari cost includes;
- Airport Transfers.
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary.
- 1 Gorilla 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.