This midrange safari offers a rich blend of primate encounters and cultural immersion, taking you through Rwanda’s spectacular natural reserves and heritage sites. Starting in the capital city Kigali, you’ll journey southwest to Nyungwe Forest for a thrilling chimpanzee trek and rainforest canopy walk before heading north to the famed Volcanoes National Park for unforgettable gorilla trekking. Along the way, you’ll engage with Rwanda’s vibrant traditions and history.
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide who will escort you to your accommodation at Heaven Boutique Hotel (Midrange). Depending on your arrival time, you may take an optional city orientation or simply relax and enjoy dinner at the hotel. The evening is at your leisure.
After breakfast, depart for Nyungwe Forest, with culturally enriching stops en route. First, explore the Nyanza King’s Palace, where you’ll witness traditional Rwandan royal architecture and learn about pre-colonial monarchy. Next, visit the Ethnographic Museum in Huye, which offers deep insight into Rwanda's cultural history. Enjoy lunch en route and arrive at Emeraude Kivu Resort (Midrange) in the late afternoon. Settle in for dinner with views of Lake Kivu.
Rise early and head into the forest with expert trackers for a morning chimpanzee trek. The experience involves hiking through dense vegetation in search of playful and vocal chimp families. Return to the lodge for lunch, and in the afternoon, embark on the exhilarating Nyungwe canopy walk, suspended 60 meters above the forest floor. This bird's-eye view of the treetops reveals rare plant species and breathtaking vistas. Return to Emeraude Kivu Resort for a restful night.
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive north through the Rwandan countryside. Pass through towns, tea plantations, and mountainous terrain before arriving in Musanze near Volcanoes National Park. Check in at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Midrange), where you’ll enjoy dinner and settle in for the night.
An early morning breakfast is followed by a briefing at the park headquarters. Trekking groups are assigned based on fitness levels and gorilla family location. The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the movements of the gorillas. Once located, you'll spend a mesmerizing hour with a gorilla family, observing their behavior and interactions. Return to Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation or optional nature walks.
After breakfast, visit the Gorilla Guardians Village where you'll participate in hands-on cultural activities such as traditional dancing, cooking, and spear throwing. After the cultural tour, drive back to Kigali and check in again at Heaven Boutique Hotel (Midrange). Enjoy a farewell dinner and optional night city tour.
Begin the day with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a powerful and emotional reflection on Rwanda’s past. Afterward, browse handicrafts at Caplaki Crafts Village for souvenirs. Depending on your flight schedule, lunch will be arranged before your transfer to the airport for your departure.