Detailed Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
You arrive in Kigali and meet your guide before starting the scenic drive south toward Nyungwe Forest. The journey showcases Rwanda's classic rolling hills, terraced farms and tea plantations. As you approach Nyungwe, the cool rainforest climate and rich vegetation welcome you to one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. You settle into your lodge for a peaceful evening.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: Gisakura Guest House
- Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
- Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House
Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinne8
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest
You start early with a morning chimpanzee trek. The forest bursts with life as you walk through towering trees and listen to the exciting calls of primates. Once you find the chimpanzee troop, you watch their lively movement, grooming, feeding and social interactions. The experience offers raw adventure and authentic wildlife moments.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: Gisakura Guest House
- Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
- Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Nyungwe Canopy Walkway and Afternoon Nature Trails
After breakfast, you experience the famous canopy walkway suspended above the treetops. From the bridge, you enjoy sweeping views of the forest, mist-filled valleys and beautiful birdlife. The afternoon is spent on a guided nature walk, exploring trails rich in flowers, butterflies, and monkeys.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: Gisakura Guest House
- Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
- Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After a relaxed breakfast, you set off on a scenic drive north toward Volcanoes National Park. The route circles around Lake Kivu and passes through colorful rural towns, terraced hillsides and mountain views. You arrive at your lodge later in the afternoon, surrounded by the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: La Palme Hotel
- Mid-range: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury: Bisate Lodge / Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge / Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
This is the most powerful day of the safari. After a morning briefing, you follow your ranger guide into the misty forest in search of a mountain gorilla family. The trek takes you through bamboo zones, thick vegetation and volcanic slopes. When you find the gorillas, you enjoy an unforgettable one-hour close-up experience watching them feed, relax, play, and interact.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: La Palme Hotel
- Mid-range: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury: Bisate Lodge / Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge / Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Lake Kivu – Gisenyi
After breakfast, you track the playful golden monkeys that live in the lower bamboo forests. Their bright colors and fast movements make the experience fun and lively. After the trek, you drive to Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu. The rest of the afternoon is perfect for relaxation by the water or a peaceful lakeside walk.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: Paradise Kivu
- Mid-range: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
- Luxury: Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel / Serena Lake Kivu Presidential Wing
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Full Day Relaxation and Optional Activities at Lake Kivu
This day is designed for relaxation. Lake Kivu offers calm waters and a peaceful environment. You can enjoy a boat ride, visit nearby islands, take a coffee tour, go swimming, or simply enjoy the views from your lodge. The gentle lakeside breeze and scenic hills provide the perfect break after trekking and forest adventures.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: Paradise Kivu
- Mid-range: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
- Luxury: Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel / Serena Lake Kivu Presidential Wing
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Return to Kigali, City Tour and Departure
After breakfast, you drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you enjoy a short city tour, visiting museums, markets and cultural centers. Your guide then transfers you to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your Rwanda safari experience.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Best Time to Do the Safari
- June to September: Best trekking conditions, less rain, good wildlife movement
- December to February: Ideal weather for primates and outdoor activities
Although the safari can run all year, dry seasons offer more comfortable trekking.
Estimated Cost Per Person (Based on 6 People Sharing)
Budget Option: USD 3,750 – 4,300 per person
Mid-range Option: USD 5,250 – 5,900 per person
Luxury Option: USD 8,800 – 10,100 per person
Costs depend on lodge choice, season, and permit availability (chimpanzee and gorilla permits included).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How hard is gorilla and chimp tracking?
Gorilla trekking is moderate and manageable. Chimp trekking can be more active due to their fast movements.
2. What is the minimum age for trekking?
Gorilla trekking: 15 years.
Chimp trekking: 12 years.
3. What clothing should I pack?
Long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, hiking boots, rain jacket, gloves, sunscreen and insect repellent.
4. Are permits guaranteed?
Permits must be booked in advance and are subject to availability.
5. Is Lake Kivu safe for swimming?
Yes, the water is safe in designated swimming areas.
6. Is Rwanda safe to travel?
Yes. Rwanda is one of the safest and most organised countries in Africa.