Overview
11
Day 1: Arrival at Kigali Airport and Transfer to Hotel
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, a representative from Wilderness Trips will warmly welcome you. You will then be transferred to your hotel, where you can settle in and unwind after your journey. Take the evening to relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.
If time allows, enjoy a brief stroll around the hotel’s serene surroundings. Your guide will also brief you on the itinerary for the following days. Dinner will be served at the hotel, giving you a taste of local cuisine.
Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda
After breakfast, begin your journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in the southwest of Rwanda. On the way, we’ll make a stop at the Ethnographic Museum in Huye, which showcases the rich cultural history of Rwanda and the surrounding region. Nyungwe Forest is home to Africa’s largest remaining tract of Montane forest and is a haven for biodiversity, boasting 86 mammal species, 280 bird species, and around 100 varieties of orchids.
Upon arrival, transfer to your lodge and take the rest of the evening to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the forest.
Day 3: Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda – Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk
After an early breakfast, head out for chimpanzee trekking in the lush Nyungwe Forest, home to 13 primate species, including man’s closest living relative, the chimpanzee. You’ll also encounter L’Hoest’s monkeys and troops of Black and White Colobus.
After lunch, embark on the popular canopy walk, where you can spot various bird species and enjoy views of large troops of Colobus monkeys as they move through the forest canopy.
Day 4: Lake Kivu Gisenyi to Volcanoes National Park
Wake up at leisure and enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting out for a boat ride on Lake Kivu, one of the most beautiful lakes in Central Africa. Explore its stunning scenery and visit some of the picturesque islands. Afterward, transfer to Volcanoes National Park for an overnight stay.
You’ll arrive in the park, relax, and prepare for the next day’s adventure. The serene environment will allow you to unwind and take in the natural beauty before your next exploration.
Day 5: Trekking to the Dian Fossey Tomb, Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, depart for the park headquarters and drive to the trailhead at the Karisoke Research Camp. From the park boundary, the walk takes approximately 2 hours to reach Dian Fossey’s grave. This trek not only offers insights into Dian Fossey’s groundbreaking conservation work with gorillas but also immerses you in the park’s diverse vegetation and wildlife.
Upon arrival at the site, you’ll visit the house where Dian Fossey was tragically murdered in 1985, followed by a visit to her grave, where she was buried beside her beloved gorilla, Digit.
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, packed lunch, charged cameras, and your gorilla trekking outfit, your safari guide will transport you to the park headquarters at Kinigi for a briefing on the gorilla trekking guidelines. During the hike through the natural forest, you will learn about the various plant and animal species that inhabit the park.
Once you encounter the mountain gorillas, you will have one hour to observe and photograph them as they interact and go about their daily activities. Afterward, you will return to the starting point where your guide will meet you and transfer you back to the lodge.
Day 7: Gorilla Guardians Village to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, you will visit the Gorilla Guardians Village to immerse yourself in Rwandan culture. Engage in traditional activities such as knitting, learning to use a bow and arrow, and enjoy songs and dances from the local society.
After this cultural experience, you will continue your journey to Akagera National Park. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge and relax.
Day 8: Activities in Akagera National Park
Today, you will begin with an early morning game drive in Akagera National Park, exploring the park’s rich wildlife. Afterward, return to your accommodation for some rest, then head out for an afternoon boat ride on Lake Ihema.
As you sail along the water’s edge, you will pass through areas lined with trees, encountering giant hippos and crocodiles basking on the shore or resting in the shallows.
Day 9: Drive to Kigali for Departure
After a leisurely breakfast, your safari guide will pick you up and drive you back to Kigali. Upon arrival, you have the option to explore the city with a guided tour. You can visit the Gisozi Genocide Memorial Site to learn about Rwanda’s history and the local handicrafts market for souvenirs.
The tour offers an enriching insight into Rwanda’s culture and heritage. Afterward, proceed to Kigali International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.
Camps & Lodges
11
Explore
Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel offers an exceptional stay with stunning views of Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda’s pristine rainforest. Nestled in a peaceful setting, the hotel provides comfortable rooms, friendly service, and easy access to chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks.
Enjoy delicious local cuisine, relax in the tranquil surroundings, and immerse yourself in the beauty of one of Africa’s oldest rainforests.
Explore
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Explore
Included Amenities
- All ground handling that is a 4×4 land cruiser/Minibus, fuel and an English speaking
- driver guide
- Full board accommodation as per the itinerary
- All park entrance fees
- Water while on safari
- Gorilla permit
- Chimpanzee permit
- Airport transfers
Excluded Amenities
- Bar Bills
- Phone calls
- Personal insurance