Rwanda is renowned for its incredible primates. On this 8-day safari, you’ll track chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, and Golden Monkeys in the country’s lush forests, while getting to know Rwanda’s vibrant culture firsthand.
- 8 days | 7 nights
- Rwanda
Highlights
- Track mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and Golden Monkeys in the verdant depths of Rwanda’s forests
- Explore the colorful streets of Kigali with your guide
- Venture along the Canopy Walkway, a metallic bridge suspended above the canopy of Nyungwe Forest, to take the in the views
Destinations
DAY 1-2: Kigali
DAY 3-4: Nyungwe Forest National Park
DAY 5-7: Volcanoes National Park
DAY 8: Kigali & Departure
Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Rwanda
- KIGALI
A very warm welcome to Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills! Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be picked up by a representative of Hornbill Treks & Safaris and transferred to your accommodations in Kigali. You’ll have a safari briefing and time for questions regarding your adventure across Rwanda. Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure.
ACCOMMODATIONS: The Retreat, Heaven Boutique Hotel, Governors Residence, Kigali Serena
Day 2: Exploring Kigali
- KIGALI
Spend the day exploring Kigali, where options include a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a walking tour of the Nyamirambo neighborhood, a nature walk at Umusambi Village, stops at the local art galleries or flourishing restaurant scene, or any number of workshops in local culture, art, or coffee.
ACCOMMODATIONS: The Retreat, Heaven Boutique Hotel, Governors Residence, Kigali Serena
Day 3: Exploring Nyungwe Forest
- KIGALI & NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK
In the morning, depart with your guide for Nyungwe National Park, one of the largest forests in East Africa. Nyungwe Forest is a haven for birds and primates, with 13 primate species and over 300 bird species recorded. En-route, stop for lunch and a visit to a local tea plantation.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Nyungwe House, Mantis Kivu Marina Bay
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking
- NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK
Enjoy an early breakfast before departing for your morning chimpanzee trek in Nyungwe Forest. After a briefing at the park headquarters, embark on your hike in the forest in search of the chimpanzees.
It can take between 30 minutes to two hours to locate the chimps on average, but once found, you’ll be able to spend an hour with these remarkable primates in the forest before making your return journey. Chimpanzees share 98% of their DNA with humans and are fascinating to watch as they swing through the tree canopy, care for their young, and feed on fruits on the forest floor.
In the afternoon, explore the forest from a different perspective with a canopy walk. Lasting about an hour and a half to two hours, the canopy walk takes you across a bridge over a deep gorge in the massive forest. You’ll have the chance to spot blue monkeys and unique birds that dwell in the upper levels of the forest canopy, and take in stunning views of Rwanda’s wilderness.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Nyungwe House, Mantis Kivu Marina Bay
Day 5: Journey to Parc des Volcans
- VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast, transfer with your guide to the Volcanoes National Park region, where you’ll check into your lodge and enjoy a relaxing evening. Along the way, take in the stunning views of Rwanda’s lush countryside.
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon relaxing at the lodge, or set out on an optional activity in the area.
ACCOMMODATIONS: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge, Wilderness Sabyinyo, Virunga Lodge, Bishop’s House, Singita Kwitonda
Day 6: Gorillas in the Mist
- VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
The hike of a lifetime begins today. Enjoy an early breakfast before heading to the park headquarters to meet your park rangers who will serve as your guides for the day’s excursion. On average, gorilla trekking lasts three to six hours total, but once you meet the gorillas, you will be able to spend an unforgettable hour with them in their native habitat. Depending on the length of your trek, enjoy a picnic lunch in the midst of the forest or upon your return to the lodge.
The evening holds dinner and leisure at the lodge. Consider including our exclusive Beyond the Trek session to learn more about the behind the scenes care and conservation of the gorillas.
ACCOMMODATIONS: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge, Wilderness Sabyinyo, Virunga Lodge, Bishop’s House, Singita Kwitonda
Day 7: Golden Monkeys & Local Culture
- VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
The day begins with a guided trek to see the Golden Monkeys at the base of the Virunga Mountains. These playful creatures live in large groups, at times numbering up to 100 individuals. Upon finding the monkeys, you’ll spend an hour with them in the forest before making your return hike.
Later in the day, explore local culture with a cultural workshop or a visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village.
The evening holds dinner and leisure at the lodge.
ACCOMMODATIONS: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge, Wilderness Sabyinyo, Virunga Lodge, Bishop’s House, Singita Kwitonda
Day 8: Departure
- VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK & KIGALI
Depart after breakfast for Kigali. Time permitting, before your flight, explore the colorful streets of Kigali in the company of your guide.
Stop for lunch in the city before transferring to the airport in time for your evening outbound flight.
How It Works
1. Share Your Inspiration
We’ll listen to your aspirations and discuss the experiences that will meet your travel needs.
2. We'll Plan & Fine-Tune
We’ll put our knowledge of the region to work and create a personalized safari for you.
3. Reserve Your Safari
When you’re ready to book, we’ll handle the details of reserving everything for your trip.
