This ten-day itinerary combines the arts and culture of bustling Kigali and the thick bamboo forests of the Rwandan jungle. Immerse yourself in Rwanda’s tumultuous history, marvelling at its swift recovery and inspiringly resilient locals, before delving deep into the lush greenery of Nyungwe’s forest canopies and embarking on an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.
Trip Highlights
- Gorilla trekking
- Visiting the ancient palace of Mwami, a Rwandan King
- Exhilarating game drives
- Walking among the canopies at Nyungwe National Park
Start your Journey
Kigali
Upon arrival in Kigali you will be met and transferred to your hotel for the night.
Kigali to Akagera National Park
After breakfast you'll drive to Akagera National Park, arriving in time for lunch. Following lunch you'll head out on your first game drive, spotting lions, hyena and Masaii giraffe, before returning to the lodge for dinner and your overnight stay.
Akagera National Park
Prepare for an exhilarating day of tracking wildlife with both a morning and afternoon drive, before boarding a boat for a cruise across Lake Ihema, offering a unique view on Rwanda's waterfowl. On returning back to the lodge, you'll be served dinner, and the rest of the night is yours to spend at leisure.
Akagera National Park to Nyungwe National Park
This morning you'll drive to Butare, stopping in Nyanza en route to visit the ancient palace of Mwami, a Rwandan King. You will enjoy lunch at a restaurant in Butare before continuing on to the forests of Nyungwe National Park, teeming with wildlife. The drive through the forest will eventually take you to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay on a full board basis.
Nyungwe National Park
Today you'll find yourself trekking through the dense forests as you track chimpanzees and learn about the forests endemic flora. Afterwards, the afternoon is at your leisure, with the opportunity to book an additional colobus monkey trek, canopy walk or exotic bird walk.
Nyungwe National Park to Gisenyi
What you do this morning is entirely up to you - choose from a range of wildlife activities; exploring Nyungwe's dense forests at your leisure, tracking it's wild inhabitants, discovering hidden waterfalls or viewing the spectacular forests from above the canopies. Once finished, you'll enjoy a picnic lunch and then travel to charming Gisenyi, known for its beaches and watersports, with stunning views en route. On arrival you'll be served dinner, free to enjoy the evening as you please.
Gisenyi
Today is set aside for exploring the laid back vibes and authentic eateries of lakeside Gisenyi. Visit the local Main Market, wander its beaches and sample the local favourite dish of barbecued meats and fish.
Gisenyi to Ruhengeri
This is the day you've been waiting for - you'll be driven to the Ruhengeri gorilla trekking base at the Volcanoes National Park for an early morning briefing, before setting out on foot in search of your assigned gorilla group. Once you experience the heart-stopping moment of seeing gorillas appearing from the mist, you'll have an hour to observe their fascinating interactions. As your gorilla encounter comes to a close, you'll trek back to the base and be transferred back to your lodge for lunch.
Ruhengeri
Again, the day's itinerary is up to you. Go for a second gorilla trekking experience, or embark on an additional Golden Monkey Trek, followed by lunch at the lodge and another nights stay.
Ruhengeri to Kigali
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Kigali Airport to connect for your onward flight.
Plan Your Dream Trip
What To Expect
Dream Carefree
Go ahead and dream big. Hayes & Jarvis experts are here to help you plan the ultimate escape. Tell us your vision for the trip of a lifetime and we’ll make it a reality.
Plan Carefree
One of our destination experts will reach out to craft a completely customized itinerary. Book your personalized journey and know that our flexible policies have you covered.
Travel Carefree
Relax and prepare for takeoff, knowing that your trip is perfectly planned and you have a personal concierge on call 24/7. Our experts are here to keep you safe and handle the details.
Includes
- Gorilla Trekking Permits.
- Accommodation as detailed in twin or double bed with private facilities (alternative but similar hotels may be used at certain times of year).
- Meals as stated.
- Non air conditioned transportation in a 4x4 vehicle.
- Services of a qualified English-speaking local driver/guide.
- Airport transfers.
- Park entrance fees and government taxes.
Excludes
- International flights and airport taxes.
- Visa fees.
- Optional excursions.
- Tips for the guide or driver.
You might also like these
Take a look at these other inspiring itineraries. Our Destination Specialists would love to create something perfect for you.
Luxury Gorilla Safaris Rwanda
Northern Tanzania Safari
Let's Chat
We have answers to all your questions.
Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists
Sign up for our newsletter
Receive the latest travel inspiration and destination news.
Three Easy Steps to a Tailor-made Holiday
The Hayes & Jarvis Way
Since 1952, our travel experts have been traversing the world to connect you with the very best our 60+ destinations have to offer. Tell us what your dream trip entails and we will craft it for you with precision and passion.