6-Day Primates Encouter Safari Itinerary

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, complete customs and immigration formalities. You will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will provide a trip briefing and introduce you to your safari driver-guide. You will then be transferred to your hotel.
• Overnight: Hotel in Kigali
• Basis: Bed and breakfast (excludes drinks)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic westward drive to Ruhengeri, the gateway to Gorilla trekking at the Parc National des Volcans. This vibrant town, located 25 km from the Uganda border, is bustling with activity and offers stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. Though Rwanda is a former Belgian colony, English is widely spoken here, and the locals are very welcoming.
• Overnight: Lodge in Ruhengeri
• Basis: Full board

• 06:30 AM: Enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge.
• 07:00 AM: Transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for registration and a briefing. The park staff will assign you to a gorilla group (a maximum of 8 trekkers per group).

After the briefing, drive to the trailhead and begin your trek into the lush forest. Trekking can take 2-6 hours or more, depending on the gorillas’ location. The experience of encountering these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is unforgettable.

After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, weather permitting, you can visit the beautiful twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
• Overnight: Lodge in Ruhengeri
• Basis: Full board

After breakfast, depart for Nyungwe National Park, a stunning montane rainforest reserve situated at an altitude of 1,600–2,950 meters. The park boasts a diverse ecosystem with over 260 tree species, orchids, and giant lobelias, making it a haven for botany enthusiasts.

En route, enjoy lunch in Kibuye before continuing your journey to Nyungwe Forest, arriving in the afternoon.
• Overnight: Lodge in Nyungwe National Park
• Basis: Full board

After an early breakfast, venture into the forest to track chimpanzees, the closest relatives to humans. Nyungwe Forest is home to a large population of these intelligent primates, as well as 275 bird species, including rare species such as the Ruwenzori turaco and Regal sunbird.

After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure, or opt for additional activities such as the canopy walk, visiting Colobus monkeys, or exploring the Kamiranzovu Waterfall (at extra cost).
• Overnight: Lodge in Nyungwe National Park
• Basis: Full board

Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before driving back to Kigali. Arrive in time for your departure flight (please ensure you check in 2-3 hours prior to departure).