7 Days Rwanda Primate Safari

Overview

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Rwanda on this 7-day Rwanda primate safari combining gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, and cultural experiences in Kigali.

Often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda offers some of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife encounters in a compact and easily accessible destination.

This itinerary takes you through ancient rainforests, scenic tea plantations, volcanic mountains, and vibrant cultural sites, giving you the opportunity to experience Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife — including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys.

The safari includes comfortable lodges, expert guides, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, making it the perfect East African primate adventure.

Trip Highlights

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
  • Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
  • Walking above the rainforest on the Nyungwe Canopy Walkway
  • Golden monkey trekking experience
  • Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial
  • Scenic drive through Rwanda’s tea plantations and rolling hills
  • Cultural visit to Red Rocks Cultural Centre
  • Stunning views of Lake Kivu

Reasons to Book This Safari

• Combines three primate experiences in one itinerary
  • Includes both gorilla and golden monkey permits
  • Comfortable lodges located close to the national parks
  • Guided by professional and knowledgeable safari guides
  • Perfect mix of wildlife, culture, and scenery

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Kigali

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative outside the customs and immigration hall. After a brief introduction, you will meet your professional driver-guide who will transfer you to your hotel in Kigali.

The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to relax after your journey and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Accommodation

Kigali Serena Hotel – One of Kigali’s most luxurious hotels, offering elegant rooms, beautiful gardens, a swimming pool, and exceptional service in the heart of Rwanda’s capital.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 2 – Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, an important historical site dedicated to remembering the victims of the 1994 genocide. The memorial offers powerful insights into Rwanda’s history and the country’s remarkable journey toward unity and reconciliation.

Later, depart Kigali for a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park. The journey takes you through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and vast tea plantations.

Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding rainforest.

Accommodation

Mantis Kivu Bay Hotel – A beautiful lakeside retreat located along Lake Kivu, offering peaceful surroundings, comfortable rooms, and stunning sunset views.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 – Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk

Your day begins early with a transfer to the park headquarters for a chimpanzee trekking briefing.

At around 6:00 AM, you will begin trekking into the forest with experienced park rangers in search of the resident chimpanzee families. Along the way, you may also encounter other primates and numerous bird species that inhabit Nyungwe Forest.

Once the chimpanzees are located, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing them as they swing through the trees, groom each other, and interact in their natural habitat.

Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.

In the afternoon, head back to the park for the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walk, one of the most thrilling activities in Rwanda. The canopy walkway stretches 200 meters above the forest floor, offering spectacular views of the rainforest and its wildlife.

Accommodation

Mantis Kivu Bay Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 – Nyungwe to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, depart for Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas.

Along the way, stop for lunch at Cormoran Lodge, where you can enjoy stunning views overlooking Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes.

Continue the scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a world-class conservation center dedicated to protecting mountain gorillas.

Later, check in at your lodge and relax for the evening.

Accommodation

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge – A charming lodge located near the entrance of Volcanoes National Park, offering comfortable cottages surrounded by lush gardens and views of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 – Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Today is the highlight of your safari — mountain gorilla trekking.

After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a detailed briefing from the park rangers. You will then be assigned a gorilla family and begin your trek through the lush forests of the Virunga Mountains.

The trek can take between 30 minutes and several hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Once the gorillas are found, you will spend one magical hour observing them in their natural habitat.

Watching these gentle giants up close is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth.

After the trek, return to the lodge for relaxation.

Accommodation

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 – Golden Monkey Trekking & Cultural Visit

After breakfast, transfer once again to the park headquarters for Golden Monkey trekking.

Golden monkeys are playful and energetic primates found in the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains. Once located, you will spend one hour observing these beautiful and rare monkeys.

After returning to the lodge for lunch, enjoy a relaxing afternoon before visiting the Red Rocks Cultural Centre, where you will learn about traditional Rwandan culture and witness the local production of banana beer.

Accommodation

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 – Departure

After breakfast, you will begin your journey back to Kigali.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or a short city tour before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Safari Inclusions

• Airport transfers
  • Accommodation with meals as specified
  • Bottled drinking water during the safari
  • Private 4×4 safari vehicle with professional driver-guide
  • All park entrance fees
  • Activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Golden monkey trekking permit

Safari Exclusions

• International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities
  • Tips and personal expenses