7 Days Rwanda Safari (Chimpanzees, Hiking and Gorillas)
Welcome to this amazing safari (Chimpanzees, Hiking and Gorillas) to Rwanda – dubbed “The Land of a Thousand Hills”. It is a chance to make your safari dreams come true. Imagine walking through the green rainforests in East Africa in search of primates. It is a moment of adventure, leisure, and creating lasting memories. We can’t wait to see you!
Day 1: Arrival, Kigali City Tour, and Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
Arrival at Kigali International Airport. You will be met by your guide who will provide a brief overview of your trip. Depending on your arrival time, you may have a quick coffee or refreshment.
Kigali City Tour. Explore the vibrant capital city. You will visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a historical perspective. A drive through the clean city center viewing landmarks and the new business district. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant in Kigali. Depart Kigali for Nyungwe National Park (approx. 5–6 hour scenic drive). You will pass through the beautiful countryside of Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Check-in at your hotel and enjoy the sunset over the forest.
Day 2: The Hike Begins – Uwinka to Gisakura
Breakfast and lunch at the hotel Drive to the Uwinka Visitor Center (the main starting point for many trails in Nyungwe). Meet your ranger guide for a briefing on the hike ahead. Begin your trek from Uwinka heading towards the Gisakura sector. This is a challenging but rewarding hike through one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. You will traverse diverse terrain, spotting monkeys (L’Hoest’s, Blue Monkeys, and Chimpanzees), birds, and unique orchids. Arrive at your designated camping area near Gisakura.
Day 3: Deep Forest Hike – First Campsite to Second Campsite
Early breakfast at the campsite. Break camp and prepare for the day’s trek. Today, you will hike deeper into the wilderness from the first campsite to the second camping site. This section of the trail is less frequented by tourists, offering a true wilderness experience. The route takes you through dense canopy, marshland, and ridges. Arrive at the second campsite. Set up camp and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Day 4: Descend to the Starting Point and Transfer to Kigali
Breakfast and break camp. Complete the final leg of your Nyungwe trek as you descend toward the Gisakura exit point or the main park road. This is a gentler descent, allowing you to soak in the last views of the massive tea plantations bordering the forest. Enjoy a meal at a lodge near the park entrance or a packed lunch depending on timing. Meet your driver and begin the drive back to Kigali (approx. 5–6 hours). Arrive in Kigali and check into your accommodation.
Day 5: Transfer to Musanze and Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Tour
Leisurely morning meal at your hotel in Kigali. Depart Kigali for Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), the gateway to the Volcanoes National Park (approx. 2-hour drive). Lunch in Musanze town. Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Tour. Located near the park, this village offers a deep dive into Rwandan culture. Experience traditional life, including, welcome dance by the Intore dancers. visiting the King’s Palace replica, lessons in traditional medicine and bow-and-arrow hunting., and banana beer brewing process.
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Breakfast at the hotel (usually by 6:30 AM). Drive to the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters in Kinigi. At 7:00 AM, you will be assigned a gorilla family group based on your fitness level and interests. Meet your ranger guide. Enter the bamboo forest. The trek can last from 1 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. Once found, you will spend one magical hour observing the gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Day 7: Transfer to Kigali and Departure
Leisurely breakfast at your lodge. If time permits before departure, you can visit the Ruhondo and Burera Lakes (the Twin Lakes) for scenic views. Drive back to Kigali (approx. 2 hours). Enjoy a farewell lunch at a restaurant in Kigali. Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your scheduled departure flight.
