12 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda Tour

Day 1: Arrival at Kigali

Upon your arrival at Kigali, you will be warmly greeted by our knowledgeable guide. They will assist you with the transfer to your hotel, located in the heart of the city. After a short drive, you will arrive at your accommodation, Kigali Serena Hotel (high-end facility), Hotel Chez Lando (mid-lodge facility), or Okapi Hotel (budget facility). Take some time to relax and unwind from your journey. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel.

Day 2: Kigali – Butare – Nyungwe Forest National Park

After a satisfying breakfast, we will depart for Butare, the second-largest city in Rwanda known as the intellectual hub of the country. Butare is home to the renowned National Museum, academic institutions, and research centers. Along the way, we will visit Nyanza, the former Mwami’s palace (King’s palace) and the historic seat of the monarchy.

Explore the palace, reconstructed to its 19th-century glory, reminiscent of the traditional architecture found in the region. Continuing our journey, we will visit the National Museum, one of the finest ethnographic museums in East Africa, providing valuable insights into the cultural history of Rwanda and the surrounding region.

Enjoy a delicious lunch in Butare before proceeding to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Upon arrival, our driver-guide will stop at the Uwinka offices to provide you with the latest information on the semi-habituated groups of chimps and colobus monkeys, preparing you for the exciting activities planned for the next day.

Day 3: Nyungwe Forest National Park

Today, you have the option to embark on a thrilling chimp tracking experience in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Alternatively, you may choose to partake in a guided primate walk or explore the well-maintained trails through the forest. Nyungwe Forest is home to a diverse range of primates, including blue monkeys and large social groups of Angolan Colobus monkeys, boasting one of the world’s largest troops of this species.

If you are a bird enthusiast, you’re in for a treat, as Nyungwe is home to several Albertine rift endemic bird species. The specially designed birding trails offer rewarding bird-watching opportunities. After a day of exploration, return to your accommodation for a delightful dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4: Nyungwe Forest National Park

Continue your exploration of Nyungwe Forest National Park, immersing yourself in its natural wonders. Take part in a guided nature walk and encounter the remarkable biodiversity of the park. Look out for the fascinating Angolan Colobus monkeys, known for their distinctive appearance and behavior. Marvel at their impressive numbers, as Nyungwe Forest is home to 25% of all African primates. After an exhilarating day in the forest, return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and well-deserved rest.

Day 5: Nyungwe Forest National Park – Kibuye

After a satisfying breakfast, depart from Nyungwe Forest and embark on a scenic journey to Kibuye. As you travel, admire the picturesque landscapes adorned with verdant tea plantations. Upon reaching Kibuye, situated on the stunning shores of Lake Kivu, you will be captivated by its beauty.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Kibuye, and take advantage of the opportunity to experience a boat ride on Lake Kivu, immersing yourself in its tranquil ambiance and breathtaking views. Spend the night at Moriah Hill Resort (high-end facility), Moriah Hill Resort (mid-lodge facility), or Home Saint Jean (budget facility), savoring a delightful dinner.

Day 6: Kibuye – Gisenyi

Today, we continue our exploration along the shores of Lake Kivu as we travel from Kibuye to Gisenyi. Admire the picturesque landscapes and the sparkling waters of the lake as we make our way to Gisenyi. Along the journey, we will stop at various scenic viewpoints, offering perfect photo opportunities. Arriving in Gisenyi, you will be mesmerized by its charm and tranquility. Enjoy a scrumptious lunch and take some time to relax on the shores of Lake Kivu.

Day 7: Gisenyi – Musanze

After breakfast, depart from Gisenyi and journey to Musanze, a vibrant town nestled at the foothills of the Virunga Mountains. Musanze is the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, famous for its gorilla trekking experiences. Upon arrival, check-in at your accommodation .In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village and immerse yourself in Rwandan traditions, music, and dance. Engage with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life. Enjoy a delectable dinner and prepare for the upcoming gorilla trekking adventure.

Day 8: Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking

Today marks the highlight of your journey as you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking guidelines and allocation of the gorilla group to visit. Led by experienced guides, venture into the dense forests of the Virunga Mountains in search of the magnificent mountain gorillas.

Witnessing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat is a truly awe-inspiring and unforgettable encounter. Spend a magical hour observing and photographing the gorillas, marveling at their behavior and the intricate social dynamics within the group. After the trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest and a delicious dinner.

Day 9: Volcanoes National Park – Golden Monkey Trekking

Today, set out for another exciting primate adventure as you embark on a golden monkey trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. Golden monkeys are endemic to the Albertine Rift and are known for their vibrant fur colors and playful behavior. Follow the trails through the bamboo forests, guided by experienced trackers, as you search for these captivating primates. Observe their agile movements and unique interactions, capturing beautiful memories through your camera lens. After the trek, return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.

Day 10: Volcanoes National Park – Akagera National Park

After breakfast, bid farewell to the gorillas and depart for Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of Rwanda. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting a diverse range of animals, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and various antelope species.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch and embark on an afternoon game drive, accompanied by experienced guides. Traverse through the picturesque landscapes, keeping an eye out for the abundant wildlife. After the exhilarating game drive.

Day 11: Akagera National Park – Kigali

On the final day of your tour, savor a delicious breakfast before embarking on a morning game drive in Akagera National Park. Marvel at the stunning natural beauty and the diverse wildlife that calls this park home. As you explore, you may spot lions, leopards, hyenas, and an array of bird species. After the game drive, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. In the afternoon, we will drive back to Kigali, where you will be transferred to your hotel or to the airport, marking the end of your incredible journey through Rwanda.

Day 12: Kigali Visit and Departure

The half day Kigali City trip includes a visit to the Genocide Memorial Centre at Gisozi, which takes a few hours. It’s a touching visit! And visit the local general goods market and the craft centre. In Rwanda you will find all over the country Memorials to remember the genocide of 1994. The most important Genocide Memorials are those of Kigali (Gisozi) and Murambi (Gikongoro) where the history of the genocide is explained. A visit to the genocide memorial is for most visitors an emotional event.

End of 12 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda Tour.