10-Day Rwanda Mountain Explorer & Cultural Safari

Embark on a thrilling 10-Day Rwanda Mountain Explorer & Cultural Safari through Rwanda’s majestic mountains, where adventure meets culture. The 10 Day adventure takes you on an unforgettable journey through Volcanoes National Park, offering exhilarating hikes up Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke, two of Rwanda’s most iconic volcanoes. In addition to the challenging hikes, you’ll experience the wonders of Rwanda’s wildlife with gorilla trekking, golden monkey encounters, and scenic walks through verdant forests. Along the way, immerse yourself in the rich Rwandan culture, with visits to local villages, cultural heritage sites, and a taste of the vibrant traditions of this beautiful country. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or cultural enthusiast, this safari is designed to showcase the very best of Rwanda’s natural beauty and heritage.

Safari highlights

  • Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

  • Hike Mount Karisimbi

  • Hike Mount Bisoke

  • Golden Monkey Tracking

  • Cultural Immersion

  • Lake Kivu Relaxation 

  • Iby’iwacu Cultural Village

  • Scenic Drives

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Welcome to Rwanda

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be met by your professional safari guide and transferred to your hotel in Kigali. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a relaxed evening or a brief city tour to get a feel of Rwanda’s capital.

Accommodation Options:

  • Chez lando hotel (Midrange)
  • Hotel Mille Collins Hotel (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Kigali

Day 2: Kigali City Tour – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park (Musanze)

After breakfast, embark on a guided Kigali city tour including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, and the Candt House Museum. After lunch, set off on a scenic drive north to Musanze near Volcanoes National Park. Enjoy views of terraced hills and rural villages as you approach the Virunga Mountains. Overnight near the park.

Accommodation Options:

  • Davinci Gorilla Lodge (Moderate)
  • Tiloreza Eco Lodge (Midrange)
  • Mountain View Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Volcanoes national park

Day 3: Mount Bisoke Hike – Crater Lake Adventure

Rise early for your Mount Bisoke hike. This volcano hike takes 5–7 hours round trip and reaches an altitude of 3,711 meters. The trail winds through lush rainforest filled with birds and primates before opening up to panoramic views and a stunning crater lake at the summit. Return to the lodge in the afternoon for a well-deserved rest and evening at leisure.

Accommodation Options:

  • Davinci Gorilla Lodge (Moderate)
  • Tiloreza Eco Lodge (Midrange)
  • Mountain View Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Volcanoes national park

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking – Cultural Visit

Today is the highlight for many travelers—gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After a briefing at the park headquarters, hike through bamboo forest and dense vegetation in search of your assigned gorilla family. You’ll spend one magical hour observing their behavior. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to immerse in traditional dance, local crafts, and Buganda heritage.

Accommodation Options:

  • Davinci Gorilla Lodge (Moderate)
  • Tiloreza Eco Lodge (Midrange)
  • Mountain View Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Volcanoes national park

Day 5: Mount Karisimbi Trek – Day 1 (Overnight on the mountain)

Prepare for a two-day trek up Mount Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest volcano at 4,507 meters. After an early start, begin your guided ascent through the forest zone. You’ll stop for meals and overnight at the campsite around 3,700 meters altitude. The hike offers incredible scenery, unique plants, and the chance to spot forest wildlife.

Mount Karisimbi Summit (Camping)

Day 6: Mount Karisimbi Trek – Day 2 (Descent & Return to Lodge)

Wake up early to complete your summit of Karisimbi and enjoy sunrise views over the Virunga range. After taking in the breathtaking summit panorama, descend back through the forest to the base. Your guide will transfer you back to your lodge for rest and recovery after the challenging but rewarding adventure.

Accommodation Options:

  • Davinci Gorilla Lodge (Moderate)
  • Tiloreza Eco Lodge (Midrange)
  • Mountain View Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Volcanoes national park

Day 7: Golden Monkey Trekking – Twin Lakes Tour

Spend the morning trekking to see the rare golden monkeys in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. These playful and fast-moving primates are a delight to observe and photograph. In the afternoon, take a relaxing excursion to the scenic Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo for lakeside views, birding, and boat rides.

Accommodation Options:

  • Davinci Gorilla Lodge (Moderate)
  • Tiloreza Eco Lodge (Midrange)
  • Mountain View Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Volcanoes national park

Day 8: Transfer to Lake Kivu – Leisure on the Lake

Depart Volcanoes National Park and drive to the resort town of Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu. Spend the day at leisure with optional activities such as kayaking, a boat tour to nearby islands, coffee farm visits, or simply relaxing by the lakeside with panoramic views.

Accommodation Options:

  • Kivu Lodge (Moderate)
  • Comoron Lodge (Midrange)
  • Lake kivu Serena Hotel (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Lake Kivu

Day 9: Drive to Kigali via Nyundo Cultural Corridor

After a relaxed breakfast, begin your journey back to Kigali. Enroute, pass through the Nyundo Cultural Corridor for chances to stop at local art centers, pottery studios, and traditional weavers. Arrive in Kigali by late afternoon and check in for your final night.

Accommodation Options:

  • Chez lando hotel (Midrange)
  • Hotel Mille Collins Hotel (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Kigali

Day 10: Departure – Kigali City Markets & Transfer to Airport

If time allows, explore local markets such as Kimironko for souvenir shopping or enjoy a traditional lunch in town. Your guide will then transfer you to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Bed & Breakfast

End of 10-Day Rwanda Mountain Explorer & Cultural Safari

Inclusions

  • Accommodation: 9 nights in comfortable mid-range lodges.

  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as per the itinerary.

  • Transportation: All transfers in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional Tourist guide-driver.

  • Guided Treks: Professional guides for Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke hikes.

  • Park Fees: All entry and conservation fees for Volcanoes National Park and other parks visited.

  • Gorilla Trekking Permit: One permit for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

  • Golden Monkey Tracking Permit: One permit for golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

  • Cultural Tours: Visits to local villages, Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, and cultural sites.

  • Boat Ride: Scenic boat ride on Lake Kivu.

  • All Activities: As per the itinerary, including all hikes, nature walks, and cultural experiences.

  • Professional English-speaking guide

  • Government taxes

Exclusions

  • International Flights: Flights to and from Rwanda.

  • Visa Fees: Visa costs for Rwanda

  • Travel Insurance

  • Optional Activities: Any additional activities not specified in the itinerary

  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as souvenirs, tips, and personal purchases.

  • Alcoholic Beverages: Drinks and other refreshments not included 

  • Laundry Services: Any laundry services during the trip.

  • Tips: Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff