9 Days Around Rwanda Wildlife and Primate Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, a Gorilla Quest Africa representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your luxury hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may embark on a short city tour or simply relax and refresh at your accommodation. Kigali is often regarded as one of Africa’s cleanest and most vibrant cities, offering visitors an immediate sense of Rwanda’s hospitality. The evening is spent enjoying a gourmet dinner and preparing for the adventure ahead.

Accommodation Options: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Marriott Hotel

Meals: (Dinner)

Day 2: Kigali City Tour

After breakfast, set out on a guided tour of Kigali. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a place of remembrance and resilience that provides important insight into Rwanda’s history. Continue to Kimironko Market where colorful stalls of crafts, fabrics, and produce create a lively atmosphere. You may also visit the Nyamirambo Women’s Center, where you can take part in cultural experiences such as cooking, basket weaving, and storytelling. Return to your luxury hotel in the evening for relaxation and fine dining.

Accommodation Options: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, drive east to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah reserve and home to the Big Five. The journey offers breathtaking countryside views and glimpses of rural life. On arrival, check into your luxury lodge overlooking Lake Ihema and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, embark on your first game drive to spot giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and elephants. The day concludes with a sundowner as the African sky turns golden, followed by dinner under the stars at your lodge.

Accommodation Options: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Full Day Safari in Akagera National Park

Spend a full day exploring Akagera National Park with both morning and afternoon game drives. The early hours provide the best chance to spot predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas. Midday, enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the park before heading to Lake Ihema for a relaxing boat safari. Here, you will see hippos, crocodiles, and a dazzling variety of birds. This day is perfect for photography and adventure, offering the complete savannah safari experience.

Accommodation Options: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Karenge Bush Camp

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive north to Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas. Along the way, stop at viewpoints and enjoy lunch before arriving in Musanze, the park’s gateway town. Your luxury lodge, set against the backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes, provides stunning views and modern comforts. Spend the evening relaxing with a gourmet dinner and preparing for tomorrow’s unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.

Accommodation Options: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before setting off on your gorilla trekking adventure. Led by experienced guides, hike through the misty forest in search of a mountain gorilla family. The moment you come face-to-face with these gentle giants is one of the most profound wildlife encounters in the world. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. Spend the evening enjoying spa treatments or simply soaking in the spectacular mountain views.

Accommodation Options: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Virunga Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Golden Monkey Tracking – Transfer to Lake Kivu

This morning, embark on a golden monkey tracking excursion in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. These playful primates are delightful to watch and photograph. After the trek, drive to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most scenic Great Lakes. Check into your lakeside resort and enjoy a relaxed lunch by the water. The afternoon is free to swim, kayak, or take a boat ride to nearby islands. End the day with a lakeside dinner as the sun sets over the water.

Accommodation Options: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Paradise Kivu Resort

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, continue your journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a biodiversity hotspot in southwestern Rwanda. The scenic drive passes through tea plantations and rolling hills, offering picturesque views. On arrival, check into your luxury lodge set on the edge of the rainforest. Enjoy lunch and later take a short guided nature walk around the lodge grounds. The evening is reserved for relaxation as you prepare for chimpanzee trekking the next day.

Accommodation Options: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Chimpanzee Trekking – Departure

Rise early for an exciting chimpanzee trekking adventure in Nyungwe Forest. With the guidance of expert trackers, you will follow the calls of chimpanzees and witness their energetic behavior up close as they swing through the treetops and forage in the forest. After the trek, return to your lodge for breakfast and then begin the journey back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a farewell lunch in the city before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your 9 Days Around Rwanda Wildlife and Primate Adventure with Gorilla Quest Africa.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 9 Days Around Rwanda Wildlife and Primate Adventure.