Tour Overview

Experience the ultimate Rwanda safari on this exciting 7-day adventure that combines unforgettable primate encounters with thrilling wildlife safaris and cultural exploration. Journey through three of Rwanda’s most iconic destinations—Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, and Kigali—where you’ll trek endangered mountain gorillas, observe playful golden monkeys, and track wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

Along the way, discover Rwanda’s fascinating history and vibrant culture with a guided Kigali city tour, enjoy spectacular scenery across the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” and relax in carefully selected safari lodges. This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a perfect blend of wildlife, nature, and authentic Rwandan experiences.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & City Tour

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional driver-guide and transferred to your hotel. After some time to refresh, set out on a guided tour of Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest and most vibrant cities. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for an insightful introduction to Rwanda’s history, explore local craft markets, art galleries, and cultural centers, and browse for handmade souvenirs. Return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, depart Kigali for the scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda. Enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills, terraced farms, and traditional villages along the way. Upon arrival, check into your lodge located near the Virunga Mountains and spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing while enjoying the beautiful surroundings before dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast, transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure. Accompanied by experienced ranger guides, hike through the lush rainforest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. Once located, spend one incredible hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat as they feed, play, and interact. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Golden Monkey Trekking

Wake up early for breakfast before returning to Volcanoes National Park for an exciting golden monkey trekking experience. Follow your guide into the bamboo forests where these colorful and energetic primates thrive. Spend an hour watching them leap through the trees, forage for food, and interact with one another. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, check out and begin your scenic journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwestern Rwanda. Drive through the country’s spectacular countryside, passing tea plantations, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. Stop en route for lunch before continuing to your lodge near the park. Check in, relax, and enjoy dinner while preparing for the next day’s chimpanzee trekking adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

Rise early for breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing. Accompanied by experienced guides, venture into the ancient rainforest in search of wild chimpanzees. Listen for their distinctive calls as you follow forest trails and observe these fascinating primates in their natural environment. Along the trek, you may also encounter L’Hoest’s monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, colorful birds, and unique forest vegetation. Return to the lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Return to Kigali & Departure

After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin the drive back to Kigali. Stop along the way for lunch and, if time permits, visit local craft markets to purchase handmade souvenirs before your transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Rwanda safari.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

End of the 7 Days Rwanda Primate & Wildlife Safari

Tour Includes

  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit
  • Park entrance and conservation fees
  • Accommodation throughout the safari
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Private 4×4 safari vehicle with fuel
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • Kigali city tour
  • Bottled drinking water during transfers
  • All airport transfers
  • Government taxes

Tour Excludes

  • International flights
  • Rwanda visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Alcoholic and premium beverages
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, souvenirs, telephone calls, and spa services