Kigali Genocide Memorial (Gisozi)
A good morning breakfast, prepare and set off to a vibrant rushing hour, drive to the center of the genocide memorial. The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a central site for remembrance and education about the 1994 2nd Genocide against the Tutsi and the Hutus. It is the burial ground for over 250,000 victims of the work. The memorial includes mass graves, an exhibition recounting the history and impact of the genocide to the country, and personal stories of survivors. There is also a peaceful garden and a Wall of Names to honor the lost lives. It serves as a place for reflection and learning. While there is no fixed entry fee, donations are encouraged to support the upkeep of the memorial. Visitors can take guided tours to understand the history and context of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Multimedia exhibits include photographs, videos, and written accounts. The serene gardens provide a space for reflection after viewing the emotionally intense exhibits. Allocate at least 2-3 hours for a meaningful visit. I recommended going in the morning for a quieter experience for the busy hours.
Visiting Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except on public holidays).
Nyamata Genocide Memorial
This memorial is housed in a former Catholic church where more than 10,000 people and children sought refuge during the genocide, only to be brutally killed. The Nyamata site preserves the victims’ belongings such as clothing’s, utensils, bullet riddled wall, blood-stained walls, and remnants of the brutal attack. Over 50,000 victims are buried here, making it a sobering reminder of the atrocities. Mass graves are outside the church house. It symbolizes the betrayal of sanctuary and provides a deep insight into the genocide’s scale. The site is about an hour’s drive from Kigali, and hiring a local guide to enhance the experience. Be prepared for a very emotional visit, as the stories and preserved evidence are extremely powerful. Nyamata is about 30 km south of Kigali.
Visiting Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except on public holidays).No fixed fee, but donations are welcomed.
Lunch; there are many options of restaurants (choice), a choice of local delicacy. Enjoy a delicious Rwandan-inspired lunch at popular spots with a focus on sustainable dining. Try local dishes like brochettes, isombe (cassava leaves), or Akabenz (pork ribs).
Parliamentary Building (Campaign against Genocide Museum)
The museum showcases Rwanda’s recovery journey, with exhibits on the heroic efforts of the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) to stop the genocide. Visitors can also learn about the strategies and operations launched from this site to save lives and secure peace. Combine this visit with a tour of Kigali City for a broader understanding of Rwanda’s past and present. While still in Kigali also consider other historical sites i.e. Camp Kigali Memorial, Honors the 10 Belgian UN peacekeepers that were killed during the genocide. Inema Arts Center Showcasing Rwanda’s modern art and culture. Ntarama Genocide Memorial Similar to Nyamata, this memorial preserves another church where victims sought refuge.
Kimironko Market
Head to Kigali’s largest market, Kimironko for a bustling local shopping experience and interaction with the traders. Browse in the fresh produce of Africa food, vibrant fabrics, and handmade crafts among others. Don’t hesitate to bargain with the vendors, and if interested, try some fresh Rwandan fruits.
Nyamirambo Women’s Center (NWC)
Explore Kigali’s vibrant Nyamirambo neighborhood with a walking tour organized by the Nyamirambo Women’s Center. Experience Rwandan culture through local stories, food, and Art crafts, fabrics among other. Purchase handmade souvenirs at the Nyamirambo Women’s center boutique to support women’s empowerment initiatives and there live hood.
Day 1: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Our company driver will pick you up from the hotel or Kigali international airport, he will brief you and then transfer you to volcanoes national park. On the way, you will view beautiful rolling hills and green vegetation. Upon arrival, you will check in with the lodge where you will have meals overnight.
Accommodation options:
- Davinci Gorilla Lodge (Moderate)
- Tiloreza Eco Lodge (Midrange)
- Mountain View Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full board
Destination: Volcanoes national park
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking
Wake up early in the morning, take breakfast and report to park’s headquarters for briefing on the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking by the game rangers. You will be allocating trekking group of 8 people and you will enter the jungle to trek our cousins the mountain gorillas. Time to spend with the gorillas after allocate them is one hours and you will go back to lodge. In the afternoon will have community walk and back to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation Options:
- Davinci Gorilla Lodge (Moderate)
- Tiloreza Eco Lodge (Midrange)
- Mountain View Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full board
Destination: Volcanoes national park
Day 3: Dian Fossey Tour
Wake up early have breakfast and head to the famous Dian Fossey Research Centre and graveyard. Dian Fossey’s research center was started by Dr. Fossey and she spent close to two decades habituating, studying, and conserving the endangered mountain gorillas. Return to the lodge for meals and overnight.
Accommodation Options:
- Davinci Gorilla Lodge (Moderate)
- Tiloreza Eco Lodge (Midrange)
- Mountain View Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full board
Destination: Volcanoes national park
Day 4: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
Take morning breakfast and the driver will transfer you to nyungwe forest national park. Nyungwe forest has a variety of habituates including the montane forest, bamboo, grasslands, swamps, and bogs and the forest is mountainous. Nyungwe forest is the best destination for a golden monkey trekking experience. When you reach, will check in to the lodge, meals, and overnights at the lodge.
Accommodation:
- Nziza Eco lodge (Moderate)
- Nyungwe Top View Hotel (Midrange)
- One & Only Nyungwe House (Luxury)
Meals: Full board
Destination: Nyungwe National Park
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking
You will have morning breakfast and then proceed to headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee tracking. You will enter the jungle to search for chimpanzees and colonies of habituated golden monkeys. You will observe other wildlife in the forest like grey-cheeked mangabeys, blue monkeys, Angolan colobus, and owl-faced monkeys to mention a few. After you will return back to the lodge for meals and overnight.
Accommodation Options:
- Nziza Eco lodge (Moderate)
- Nyungwe Top View Hotel (Midrange)
- One & Only Nyungwe House (Luxury)
Meals: Full board
Destination: Nyungwe National park
Day 6: Visit Genocide Memorial
Begin your day with an early morning drive from Nyungwe to Kigali, passing through Rwanda’s scenic hills and local villages. Upon arrival in Kigali, visit the powerful Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide and a center for education and remembrance. Explore the exhibits, pay your respects, and gain deep insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience. After lunch in the city, return to over night kigali city
Accommodation Options:
- Chez lando hotel (Midrange)
- Hotel Mille Collins Hotel (Luxury)
Meals: Full board
Destination: Kigali
Day 7: City Tour and Transfer to the Airport
After breakfast, enjoy a short city tour of Kigali, visiting key sites such as the local craft markets, and scenic viewpoints around the city. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll have time for lunch or last-minute shopping before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Getting There
The trip will start from Kigali International Airport to Volcanoes National Park to Nyungwe National Park and you will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport.
Pickup by your Adventure in the wild Safari Guide
Welcome to the start of your Rwanda trip in the beautiful city of Kigali! Your guide will either pick you up directly from Kigali International Airport or from your hotel if you are already staying in Kigali. If you need any supplies for your upcoming week in Rwanda, please tell your guide at pickup, and he will be happy to make sure your needs are accommodated. Most travel essentials and non-essentials are available in Kigali, but availability is limited outside of the city.
Lunch and Drive to Akagera National Park (2.5 hours)
Your safari to Rwanda begins with a 2.5 hour drive to Akagera National Park. Ascend winding roads and watch the mountain scenery open up into flatlands on the way to your accommodation. Along the way, you will stop at a Rwandese restaurant for lunch with your guide. Enjoy local samosas, pockets of fried dough stuffed with beef, chicken, or vegetables, or an ice-cold Skol or Mutzig beer, both brewed in Rwanda. After you arrive and check in, enjoy your evening as you take in the savannah, lakes, and wide blue skies of the park. Dinner will be served at your hotel.
Meals: Full board
Accommodation:
- Akagera Game Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Camp (Luxury)
- Akagera safari camp, Akagera rhino lodge (Midrange)
- Karenge Bush Camp, Akagera live lodge (Budget)
Destination: Akagera National Park
Day 2: Akagera Game Drive and Journey to Volcanoes National Park
Breakfast and Morning Game Drive
After an early breakfast, enjoy a morning Game Drive led by your Adventure in the wild Safari guide. As it is not yet warm in the park, you may have the chance to see predators such as lions and hyenas on the hunt. From your vehicle, look carefully over the wetlands and marshes for the many bird species endemic to the area. Akagera National Park is much less frequented by tourists than more well-known parks in Kenya and Tanzania; thus, you may feel as though you and your group have the whole park to yourselves. Look carefully for lions, recently re-introduced into the park, as well as rhinos, a new addition. This drive is an unforgettable part of your tour in Rwanda.
Lunch and drive to Volcanoes National Park (2.5 hours)
Your journey to see gorillas begins with a 2.5 hour drive to Volcanoes National Park. Ascend winding roads and enjoy the mountain scenery on the way to your accommodation as your guide gives you an informative briefing on your upcoming Gorilla Tracking Safari. Rwanda is covered with small farms, each about 1 acre in size, so that the rolling hills almost look like quilts of bananas, tea, and other crops. After checking in, your Adventure in the wild Safari guide will accompany you on a village walk. Take a two-hour journey into the colorful, rustic local villages in the park, and take a moment to greet the warm, hospitable people who live there. You will see for yourself the simplicity and richness of the local lifestyle. The hearty, humble people of the villages here keep family close and make use of everything well past when a wealthier person would simply throw things away. After your walk, you will return to your lodge for dinner and watch the sun sink behind the mountains of the park.
Meals: Full board
Accommodation options:
- Da Vinci gorilla lodge (Budget)
- Tiloreza Eco lodge, Le bamboo gorilla lodge (Mid-range)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
Destination: Volcanoes National Park
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking and Ibylwacu Cultural Centre
Breakfast and Cultural Performance at Park Headquarters
Enjoy an early breakfast at your lodging and head to the Park Headquarters for a morning of coffee, tea, music, and performance by local dancers. Gorilla Trekking (1-8 hours) Next, you will be assigned to one of ten families of Mountain Gorillas. After a short briefing about park etiquette from a park Ranger Guide, you will be ready to begin lowland gorilla tracking. You will be driven to the tracking start point, from which your Ranger Guide will begin to track your assigned gorilla family. The mountain gorillas are constantly on the move, so it could take anytime between one and eight hours to meet the gorillas. In the early morning, before you arrive, rangers will have already entered the forest to begin following the trail left by your gorilla family. These rangers are in constant contact with your Ranger Guide. When they find the gorillas, they will immediately alert your Ranger Guide to their location, and you will proceed directly to where the gorillas are. A packed lunch will be provided for you to eat either before or after seeing the gorillas in the case that the trek takes most of the day. Visitors are not allowed to eat in the presence of the gorillas. After your group finds the gorillas, you will have one hour to observe and photograph them. This will be plenty of time for you to see how the gorillas communicate with each other, move, and play. Your Ranger Guide will be happy to answer any of your questions about Mountain Gorillas. Iby’Iwacu Cultural Center Visit. At the end of your gorilla trek in Rwanda, return to your accommodation for lunch and a well-deserved rest. When you are ready, your Adventure in the wild Safari guide will take you to the Ibyiwacu Cultural Center in Kinigi. At the Center, you can enjoy a performance of native dance and music by drummers and dancers, as well as a traditional wedding ceremony recreated by local performers. This traditional drama will put a smile on your face and fill out your tour in Rwanda. Before nightfall, you will return to have dinner at your accommodation.
Accommodation options:
- Da Vinci gorilla lodge (Budget)
- Tiloreza Eco lodge, Le bamboo gorilla lodge (Mid-range)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking & Musanze Caves
Breakfast and Cultural Performance at Park Headquarters
Enjoy an early breakfast at your lodging and return to the Park Headquarters for another morning of coffee, tea, music, and performance by local dancers. Following the performance and briefing by a Park Ranger, you will join a Golden Monkey Tracking Group and head to the tracking start point in the forest. Golden Monkey Tracking Unlike your mountain gorilla safari, the Golden Monkeys are easy to find; they are usually feeding in the beautiful Bamboo Forest near the base of the mountain. As with the gorillas, you will take an hour to observe, photograph, and ask questions about the energetic Golden Monkeys. Afterwards, your Park Ranger will lead you back to your vehicle, where you’ll join your Adventure in the wild Safari guide and return to your lodging for lunch. Following a filling lunch, your guide will escort you to the Musanze Caves, a lesser-known but breathtaking part of a complete Rwanda trip. The longest cave extends more than 2 kilometers. Don a helmet as you descend down the wide stone steps from the jungle into the cave’s gaping mouth. Follow the trails into the caves, and discover the long-lost homes of local people. Before nightfall, you will return again to your lodging for dinner.
Meals: Full board
Accommodation options:
- Da Vinci gorilla lodge (Budget)
- Tiloreza Eco lodge, Le Bamboo Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
Day 5: Return to Kigali
Breakfast and drive to Kigali (2-3 hours)
After breakfast, you will have a chance to pack up for your return to Kigali. Enjoy a scenic descent past banana farms, tea plantations, and small towns in western Rwanda along winding mountain roads. Return to Kigali International Airport or Accommodation. (Optional) Tour of Kigali City, If there is time, your guide will be happy to guide you to one of Kigali’s renowned bakeries, coffee shops, or a local handicrafts market to purchase some of the beautiful artwork created in the city. Visit the world-renowned Genocide Memorial Center and have a chance to learn about the fascinating recent history of the country. Enjoy a cup of Rwandan coffee at the Memorial café and explore the outdoor rose gardens. When the time is right, your guide will return you to your accommodation or will accompany you to Kigali International Airport. We hope you will have enjoyed your trip to Rwanda with Adventure in the wild Safaris!
Getting There
The trip will start from Kigali International Airport to Akagera National Park to Volcanoes National Park and you will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport.
Day 1: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
Our professional driver/guide will pick you from Kigali international airport, you will be greeted by your guide and begin the scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, located about 5 to 6 hours away from Kigali. The journey will take you through the lush hills and vibrant villages of Rwanda, offering beautiful views of the countryside. Upon arrival in Nyungwe, you will check into your lodge, relax, and enjoy the surroundings. In the evening, you will have the opportunity to unwind with a delicious dinner at the lodge while preparing for the exciting primate adventures to come.
Accommodation options:
- Nyungwe Top View Hotel
- Nyungwe Forest Lodge
- Gisakura Guest house
Destination: Nyungwe National Park
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking/ Canopy Walk/ Nature Walk/ Birding
After an early breakfast, you will head to the Nyungwe Forest headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee trekking guidelines. Nyungwe is home to over 13 primate species, and this day is dedicated to encountering chimpanzees in their natural rainforest habitat. The trek will take you through dense jungle trails, and depending on where the chimpanzees are located, the trek can last between 2 to 5 hours. Once you encounter the chimpanzees, you will have one hour to observe them as they feed, play, and communicate with each other. You may also spot other primates such as colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and a variety of bird species during the trek. After the trek, you will return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you can enjoy a canopy walk over the forest treetops, providing a unique perspective of the forest and a chance to spot more wildlife. Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge in Nyungwe Forest.
Accommodation options:
- Nyungwe Top View Hotel (Midrange)
- One & Only Lodge (Luxury)
- Gisakura Guest house ( moderate)
- Meal plans: Full board
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, you will begin the drive to Volcanoes National Park, located in the northern part of Rwanda. The scenic drive will take about 5 to 6 hours, passing through the beautiful hills and rural landscapes of Rwanda. Along the way, you may stop to admire the stunning views of Lake Kivu and the Virunga Mountains. Upon arrival at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park, you will check in and have time to relax. The evening is free for you to explore the surroundings or enjoy a cultural visit to a nearby community to learn about the traditional life of the Rwandan people. Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park.
Accommodation options:
- Da vinci Gorilla lodge (Budget)
- Le bamboo gorilla lodge (Mid-range)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
- Meal plans: Full board
Destination: Volcanoes national park
Day 4: Gorilla Tracking and Visiting Twin Lakes
Today, you will embark on one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, you will proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing by the rangers, who will explain the trekking guidelines and assign you to a gorilla family. The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one magical hour observing them as they interact, play, and move through the forest. This is a rare opportunity to witness the behavior of these endangered primates up close. After the trek, you will return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit the Dian Fossey Research Center to learn about the legendary primatologist’s work in gorilla conservation. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Accommodation options
- Davinci Gorilla lodge (Budget)
- Le bamboo gorilla lodge (Mid-range)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
- Meal plans: Full board
Day 5: Golden Monkey’s Tracking/ Ibylwacu Cultural Tour
This morning, you will enjoy an exciting Golden monkey trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. These playful and energetic monkeys live in the bamboo forests of the park and are known for their lively interactions. The trek is generally shorter and easier compared to gorilla trekking, making it a great way to experience another primate species in their natural habitat. After the trek, you will return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you can visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you will engage with the local community and learn about Rwanda’s traditional culture through music, dance, and crafts. Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park.
Accommodation options:
- Davinci Gorilla lodge (Budget)
- Le bamboo gorilla lodge (Mid-range)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
- Meal plans: Full board
Day 6: Transfer to Kigali city for tour and Departure
After breakfast, you will check out and begin your journey back to Kigali. The drive will take about 2.5 to 3 hours. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or a visit to a local craft market or you can have city tour to most of the historical places like the genocide memorial site and national museums, parliament. Your guide will then drop you off at Kigali International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your memorable 6-day Rwanda Primates Safari.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Getting There
The trip will start from Kigali International Airport to Nyungwe National Park to Volcanoes National Park and you will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport.
Day 1: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your guide and taken on a brief city tour of Kigali. The tour includes a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial,( Kigali city Tours) which provides an insightful look into Rwanda’s history and resilience. After lunch in the city, you will begin the scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, located in Musanze District, about a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali. As you journey through the beautiful countryside, you will witness rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and picturesque villages. Upon arrival at your lodge near the park, you will check in and relax. In the evening, you may opt for a cultural visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you will learn about Rwanda’s traditions, music, and dance. Dinner and overnight stay near Volcanoes national park.
Accommodation options:
- Da Vinci gorilla lodge (Budget)
- Tiloreza Eco Lodge (Mid-range)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
- Meals: B,L,D
Destination: Volcanoes National Park
Day 02: Mountain Gorilla Tracking
After an early breakfast, you will head to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing by the park rangers. Here, you will learn about gorilla trekking guidelines and be assigned to a specific gorilla family. The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. As you hike through the dense rainforest, you may encounter Golden monkey, forest elephants, and a variety of bird species. Once you locate the gorillas, you will spend one magical hour observing them as they interact, play, and forage. This close-up encounter with the gorillas is a truly life-changing experience. After the trek, you will return to the lodge for lunch and some rest. In the afternoon, you may choose to take a guided nature walk around Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera, or visit the Dian Fossey Research Center, where you can learn about the legendary primatologist’s work in gorilla conservation. Dinner and overnight stay near Volcanoes National Park.
Accommodation options:
- Da Vinci gorilla lodge (Budget)
- Tiloreza eco lodge (Mid-range)
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
- Meals: B,L,D
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking or Optional Activity – Return to Kigali
On your final day, you can choose between Golden monkey trekking in the park or another optional activity such as a visit to the Musanze Caves or a local community project. Golden monkeys are playful and energetic primates found in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park, and tracking them offers a unique wildlife experience. After the morning activity, you will have lunch at the lodge before embarking on the drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping at local craft markets before being dropped off at the airport for your departure.