10 Days Rwanda Rainforests & Primates Adventure
Rwanda is often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills” and its capital city is no exception. In the 10 Days Rwanda Rainforests & Primates Adventure; Kigali is a region of rolling hills, valleys, ridges, and steep slopes. It enjoys a temperate tropical highland climate, a bit cooler than typical due to its high elevation of 1,540 m (5,140 ft). Average daily temperatures range between 15 and 27C (59 and 81F) and don’t fluctuate much throughout the year. Farmland comprises over 60% of the land within the city’s boundaries, mostly in outer areas surrounding the urban center and, like the rest of the country, most of the agriculture is small subsistence farming.
As in all of Rwanda, the last Saturday of each month in Kigali is a morning of mandatory community service called umuganda. One person per household between the ages of 18 and 65 is expected to carry out community tasks such as cleaning streets or building homes for vulnerable people. Most normal services close down during umuganda, and public transportation is limited. Rwandese take great pride in this national service and in the ritual of coming together to support one another, and their commitment shows.
Local people are in general very friendly and often willing to share the country’s history of genocide with visitors. The Kigali Genocide Museum is well done and worth a visit for those looking to understand the events leading up to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
There is also a flourishing local art scene with many new galleries opening up.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda!
Upon arrival at Kigali Airport, our Nyumbu Beyond Journeys safari guide will be waiting to welcome you and provide a short briefing before transferring you to your accommodation in Kigali (approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions). You will have the opportunity to rest and prepare for your safari adventure the following day. Our driver will ensure that you are comfortable and ready for an exciting and unforgettable experience exploring the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of Rwanda.
Day 2: Kigali city tour
This morning you will enjoy breakfast and meet your guide in your hotel lobby to depart on a moving tour of this remarkable city.
One of the most impactful stops as part of this morning’s tour will be a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. No visit to Kigali is complete without a visit to this important landmark, as this is the final resting place for more than 250,000 victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. While perhaps not a pleasant conversation, it is important to understand these events to truly understand Rwanda and its wonderful people.
The Kigali Genocide Memorial includes three permanent exhibitions. The largest one documents the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and gives an outline of Rwandan society before colonization, the horrors of the genocide, as well as stories of survival and rescue. There is also a children’s memorial and an exhibition on the history of genocidal violence around the world. Outside, visitors can walk around the mass graves, visit the wall of names, and find a quiet place in the gardens of reflection.
The Memorial hosts a range of remembrance events and activities throughout the year, many of which occur during the annual commemoration period, from April 7 to July 4, in honor of the three months that the Genocide against the Tutsi lasted.
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a guided experience. Visitors can choose between a guided tour by one of the staff witnesses or purchase the KGM digital guide and follow an audio-visual tour of the memorial.
A tour of the entire memorial takes approximately one hour and thirty minutes.
Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park & Guided game drive
After having breakfast at the hotel, proceed to embark on a two-hour drive for your safari to Akagera National Park is a protected area in eastern Rwanda, known for its diverse wildlife including elephants, lions, buffalos, zebras, and over 505 bird species. The Park covers an area of 1,122 km2 and includes savannas, swamps, and forests along with Lake Ihema. It offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and scenic boat rides. Akagera serves as a valuable sanctuary for the region’s wildlife and provides a source of livelihood for the surrounding communities.
A game drive in Akagera National Park offers an exhilarating wildlife experience. Located in eastern Rwanda, the park spans over 1,200 square kilometers and boasts a rich variety of landscapes, including rolling hills, savannas, and swamps. Visitors can expect to see elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and more during their game drive. The Park is explored in a specially designed vehicle, guided by a knowledgeable guide who shares their expertise on the wildlife and their habitats. The best times for game drives are early mornings and late afternoons, when the animals are most active. In addition to its diverse wildlife, Akagera National Park also boasts breathtaking views of the landscape, including the tranquil Lake Ihema. A game drive in Akagera National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature and wildlife lovers.
Day 4: Guided game drive & Helicopter Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
Following an early morning breakfast, you will embark on a day game drive in Akagera National Park, where you can witness wildlife up-close and personal. After the thrilling experience, you will exit the park and embark on a helicopter flight into Nyungwe National Park.
The Park is explored in a specially designed vehicle, guided by a knowledgeable guide who shares their expertise on the wildlife and their habitats. The best times for game drives are early mornings and late afternoons, when the animals are most active. In addition to its diverse wildlife, Akagera National Park also boasts breathtaking views of the landscape, including the tranquil Lake Ihema. A game drive in Akagera National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature and wildlife lovers.
In the afternoon, we will fly into Nyungwe National Park Africa’s oldest tropical forest home to over 13 different species of primate and 20% of all the apes in Africa. The lush and diverse habitat is famously home to a large population of chimpanzees and endangered monkeys; including the owl faced monkey and the colobus monkey, of which sightings are reported, but unverified.
Day 5: Chimp tracking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe National Park
After having breakfast, head over to the park offices to meet with your experienced guides who will lead you through the protected jungle that is the natural home of one of East Africa’s rare chimpanzee populations and troops of colobus monkeys. Next, explore the tropical rainforest to track down the elusive chimpanzees as they swing from tree branches, and snap incredible photos and videos. A rustle of leaves, and then, through the branches, you will spot a chimpanzee gazing down from the fig trees. Or perhaps you will see a troop of tree-dwelling chimps catapulting off through the canopy. Every trek is different, and the jungle’s charismatic chimpanzees are full of surprises.
Later in the day, embark on an exciting Canopy Walk in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, is a suspended walkway that offers visitors a unique perspective of the lush forest canopy and its inhabitants. The walkway stretches across 300 meters and stands at a height of 50 meters above the forest floor, providing a breathtaking view of the forest and the surrounding landscape. It’s a popular tourist attraction in the park, known for its diverse flora and fauna, including primates, birds, and other wildlife. The walkway is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the rainforest and get up close with its residents. It offers an unforgettable and exhilarating experience for all nature lovers.
Day 6: Transfer from Nyungwe to Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu
Travel to Gisenyi, a town situated on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, right by the beautiful Lake Kivu. The journey to get there will take between 4-5 hours passing through picturesque undulating hills and past lush tea plantations, all while crossing over the Albertine Rift, which is a section of the magnificent Great Rift Valley.
Day 7: Transfer from Lake Kivu to Volcanoes National Park
After having breakfast at the hotel, start your 59Km journey towards Musanze, which is the home of Volcanoes National Park. On the way, you will get the chance to appreciate the remarkable hills of Rwanda.
Venture to the stunning Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda, a sanctuary spanning 160 km2 of lush rainforest. This picturesque park is home to five of the magnificent volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains – Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. Bordering the renowned Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, this biodiverse haven is a haven for mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
Additionally, Volcanoes National Park holds significance as the former research base of celebrated primatologist Dian Fossey. Immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty and abundant wildlife of this park as you embark on an unforgettable journey to encounter these captivating creatures up close.
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
At 6:30 am, set out for the Park Headquarters in Kingi for the Gorilla tracking adventure. You’ll receive instructions from the park rangers and then proceed to the starting point or trailhead, trekking through the jungle to locate the extraordinary and uncommon apes. Spending time tracking and sitting with mountain gorillas is the ultimate wildlife experience and the reason why most people visit Rwanda on holiday.
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers visitors the unique opportunity to encounter approximately one-third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. This incredible adventure allows you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Trekking through the park can be physically demanding, with hikes through dense rainforest and steep terrain. However, the reward is unparalleled, as you have the chance to spend an hour observing the gorillas in their native environment. The gorillas are habituated to human presence, allowing you to get within a few meters of these incredible animals.
During the trek, you’ll witness the gorillas’ social interactions, feeding behavior, and the nurturing care they provide to their young. It’s an unforgettable experience that offers a unique insight into the lives of these remarkable creatures. While enjoying this encounter, it’s important to remember that these are wild animals, and following the rules set by park authorities is essential for the safety of both visitors and gorillas.
In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is an absolute must-do for those seeking an up-close encounter with one of the world’s most fascinating species. This awe-inspiring adventure is sure to leave a lasting impression and create cherished memories.
The location of the lodge puts gorilla trekking within easy reach, and daily hikes to observe gorilla groups in their natural habitat in the Volcanoes National Park are led by expert guides. Gorilla trekking permits need to be secured in advance. Daily trek groups allow for eight people per gorilla family per day, and the age limit for trekking is 15.
Day 9: Golden Monkey Tracking and Cultural Tour in Volcanoes
At 6:30am, begin your day with an early breakfast before departing for the Golden monkey tracking experience at the Park Headquarters in Kingi. Upon arrival, the Park rangers will provide you with a briefing, followed by a 15-minute drive to the trail head. From there, you’ll journey through the jungle to search for the distinctive primates. This unique experience allows you to encounter the rare and endangered golden monkeys in their natural habitat. Follow expert guides through lush bamboo forests as you search for these playful creatures. Witness them foraging, playing, and socializing, and marvel at their distinctive golden-yellow fur.
Golden Monkey Trekking is a must for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike. This challenging yet rewarding experience promises a memorable encounter with these captivating animals. Make the most of your visit to Rwanda with this special wildlife activity in Volcanoes National Park.
In the afternoon, take a cultural tour of the I’biwacyu village to learn about the customs and traditions of the Rwandan people. A cultural tour around the communities surrounding Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offers visitors a unique and enriching experience to learn about the local culture and traditions.
The Park is located near the Virunga Mountains, a range of volcanic peaks that are home to a diverse range of cultures, including the Banyarwanda, Batwa, and Bafumbira. The cultural tour takes visitors on a journey through the surrounding villages, where they can interact with local residents and learn about their way of life, customs, and beliefs. Visitors can observe traditional dances, learn about the local cuisine, and visit local craft markets to purchase handmade goods. The tour also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region and provides an understanding of the unique relationship between the local people and their environment. Whether you’re interested in cultural exchange or just looking to learn more about the local culture, a cultural tour around Volcanoes National Park community is a must-do experience.
Day 10: Transfer from Volcanoes National Park to Kigali and Departure
After having breakfast at the lodge, embark on a drive back to Kigali. The distance between the lodge and Kigali is approximately 116 kilometers (72 miles), and the estimated drive time is about 2.5 to 3 hours. Once in Kigali, proceed to the airport for your flight back home. Don’t miss the Caplaki Crafts Village, where you can shop for authentic traditional handicrafts like woodcarvings and woven baskets. Experience the essence of Rwanda in Kigali.
Embark on a seamless journey as our knowledgeable safari Guide picks you up and escorts you to Kigali Airport for your departing flight. ‘KWAHERI IS THE SWAHILI WORD FOR FAREWELL.’ Today you will connect with your international departure flight back home.
We hope to welcome you back to Africa again soon!
