7-Day Rwanda’s Primate Expedition

Introduction

The 7-Day Rwanda’s Primate Expedition is an unforgettable journey through the heart of Rwanda’s lush landscapes, pristine rainforests, and volcanic mountains. This expedition takes you deep into the highlands, where breathtaking natural beauty meets incredible wildlife encounters. From tracking endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park to chimpanzee trekking in the ancient Nyungwe Forest, this safari blends adventure with cultural immersion and scenic exploration. Along the way, you’ll discover the vibrant city of Kigali, walk above the treetops on the Nyungwe canopy bridge, and relax by the shores of Lake Kivu — one of Africa’s great lakes.

Safari Highlights

  • Guided city tour of Kigali, including the Genocide Memorial

  • Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

  • Canopy walk experience above the rainforest in Nyungwe

  • Scenic drive through Rwanda’s beautiful highlands and tea plantations

  • Relaxation and optional boat ride on Lake Kivu

  • Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park

  • Cultural visit to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for a taste of Rwandan traditions

  • Golden monkey trekking in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park

Detailed day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Exploration

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your driver-guide and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and some rest, embark on a guided city tour of Kigali. Visit key landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial for an emotional and educational insight into Rwanda’s recent history. Drive through the city’s clean streets, local neighborhoods, and markets. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or at your lodge. Overnight in Kigali.

Accommodation Options:

  • Chez Lando Hotel (Midrange)
  • Hotel Mille Collines (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Kigali

Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, depart Kigali for Nyungwe Forest in the southwestern part of Rwanda. The drive offers scenic views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, rural landscapes, and tea plantations. Enroute, stop in Nyanza to visit the King’s Palace Museum and learn about Rwanda’s pre-colonial monarchy. You’ll also visit the Ethnographic Museum in Huye for a deeper understanding of the country’s cultural heritage. Arrive at your lodge near Nyungwe in the late afternoon. Check in, relax, and enjoy dinner.

Accommodation Options:

  • Nziza Eco lodge (Moderate)
  • Nyungwe Top View Hotel (Midrange)
  • One & Only Nyungwe House (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Nyungwe National park

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe

Rise early and head into Nyungwe Forest for your chimpanzee trekking experience. The trek through dense tropical forest is led by experienced rangers, and although sightings are not guaranteed, the experience is unforgettable. After lunch and some rest, enjoy the canopy walk — a suspended bridge 70 meters above the forest floor — offering panoramic views and a chance to spot birds and primates from above. Return to the lodge for the evening.

Accommodation Options:

  • Nziza Eco lodge (Moderate)
  • Nyungwe Top View Hotel (Midrange)
  • One & Only Nyungwe House (Luxury)

Meals: Full board

Destination: Nyungwe National Park

Day 4: Drive to Lake Kivu – Relaxation

After breakfast, drive north to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. This beautiful lake is a perfect place to unwind after forest trekking. On arrival, check into your lakeside lodge and spend the day at leisure. Optional activities include a boat ride to explore nearby islands, visiting local fishing villages, or simply relaxing by the beach. Enjoy the cool breeze and serene views. Overnight stay at Lake Kivu.

Accommodation Options:

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

Meals: Full board

Destination: Lake Kivu

Day 5: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After a relaxing morning by the lake, continue your journey to the northern part of Rwanda, heading to Volcanoes National Park — the home of mountain gorillas. The drive offers more stunning views of Rwanda’s mountainous terrain. On arrival, check into your lodge and relax. You can take a short guided community walk or visit the nearby twin lakes (Burera and Ruhondo) if time permits. Prepare for the next day’s adventure. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Accommodation Options:

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

Meals: Full board

Destination: Volcanoes national park

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Start the day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing. You’ll then be assigned a gorilla family group and guided into the forest for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with mountain gorillas. Trekking can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the group’s location. You are allowed one hour with the gorillas — enough to observe, photograph, and experience these majestic animals up close. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you may opt for a cultural visit to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about traditional Rwandan life, music, and dance.

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 – Return to Kigali – Departure

After breakfast, embark on another primate adventure with golden monkey trekking in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. These lively and rare primates are a joy to watch and photograph. After the trek, return to the lodge to freshen up and begin your drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight time, you can stop for some shopping or a meal in the city before heading to the airport for your departure.

Meals: Break fast & Lunch

End of 7-Day Rwanda’s Primate Expedition

Inclusions:

  • Airport transfers to and from Kigali International Airport

  • Ground transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle with an English-speaking tourist guide/ driver

  • Accommodation for 6 nights in selected lodges (on full board basis)

  • Gorilla trekking permit (1 per person)

  • Chimpanzee trekking permit (1 per person)

  • Golden monkey trekking permit

  • Nyungwe Canopy Walk activity

  • Kigali city tour (including Genocide Memorial visit)

  • All park entry fees and guided activities as per itinerary

  • Bottled drinking water in the vehicle

  • Government taxes and service charges

  • Community visits (e.g. Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village)

Exclusions:

  • International and domestic flights

  • Rwanda tourist visa

  • Travel and medical insurance

  • Personal expenses (e.g. tips, laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)

  • Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary

  • Optional activities not included in the itinerary

  • Porter fees during trekking

  • Hotel upgrades or room service charges