Trip Features:
Rwanda, often referred to as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable wildlife experiences. On this carefully curated itinerary, you'll embark on an extraordinary journey that begins with exploring Kigali, the country's bustling capital, rich in history and culture. From there, explore Nyungwe National Forest to find the Chimpanzees in their natural habitat, then venture into the heart of the African wilderness with a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park, where you'll encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Beyond the gorillas, Rwanda offers a diverse range of experiences—from the serene beauty of Lake Kivu's shores to the savannahs of Akagera National Park, where you can spot the Big Five on a luxurious safari. This itinerary is designed for those seeking both adventure and tranquility, wrapped in the warm hospitality that Rwanda is known for. Whether you're trekking through misty forests, relaxing by crystal-clear lakes, or connecting with the rich cultural heritage of the Rwandan people, this journey promises to leave you with lasting memories of Africa's hidden gem.
Welcome to Kigali. Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be met and assisted through immigration, and privately transferred to your accommodation to settle in and enjoy some postflight downtime.
Kigali is quickly becoming one of Africa's top city destinations, known for its vibrant art scene and rich cultural experiences. Over the course of a few days, you'll dive into the local culture and lifestyle with the guidance of a private tour guide. Your exploration will include a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a poignant and respectful place of remembrance that offers profound insights into the city's history and resilience. This journey provides a comprehensive glimpse into the heart of Kigali, showcasing both its modern vibrancy and its deep-rooted heritage.
Suggested accommodation in Kigali, Rwanda:
After breakfast today, begin your Rwandan adventure with a breathtaking drive across lush landscapes, arriving at the majestic Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa's oldest rainforests.
Here you will walk along the famous forest canopy walkway, offering a bird's eye view of the vibrant birdlife and diverse primate species as you wander above the treetops. Discover the secrets of world-class tea production with a visit to a local tea plantation. The next morning, start your day with an early pick-up from your lodge for an exciting chimpanzee trekking adventure in the nearby Cyamudongo Forest. After a scenic journey of about an hour, you'll arrive at this compact yet significant forest, once part of the greater Nyungwe ecosystem. Here, you'll have the incredible opportunity to encounter a habituated group of chimpanzees, observing these fascinating creatures up close in their natural habitat. This journey promises an unforgettable exploration of one of Africa's most enchanting natural landscapes.
Suggested Accommodation in Nyungwe National Park:
Today you make your way to Volcanoes National Park where you'll embark on unforgettable treks in search of mountain gorillas and the Golden Monkeys. Nestled among the forested slopes of the Virunga massif—a chain of ancient volcanoes—this park is home to over half of the world's approximately 1,000 remaining mountain gorillas. Rwanda offers one of the few opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.
Guided by experienced trackers, you'll spend a day tracking these rare and endangered gorillas and another day in search of the Golden Monkeys. As you traverse the dense jungle, your guides will point out signs of the gorillas' presence, such as footprints, chewed vegetation, and nests. Once located, you'll have the extraordinary privilege of spending an hour with a gorilla family, observing their daily lives. The dominant silverback may rest leisurely while the younger gorillas play and climb, and mothers care for their infants.
Beyond gorilla and golden monkey trekking, the park offers a range of activities, including hikes to volcano craters, cultural tours, and the Dian Fossey hike. Your stay in Volcanoes National Park is fully customizable, allowing you to choose the experiences that most interest you. Depending on the location of the gorillas, your trek may be a short journey or a more extended hike, with the possibility of returning to your hotel for lunch. This experience offers a profound connection to nature and the remarkable wildlife of Rwanda.
Suggested Accommodations near Volcanoes National Park:
After a tough few days of forest trekking, today you will take a scenic helicopter transfer to Akagera National Park, embarking on an exclusive two-day adventure through some of Africa's most picturesque landscapes. This diverse park features open plains, woodlands, lakes, swamps, and grassy low mountains, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Akagera boasts one of the continent's highest hippo populations, massive crocodiles, the rare sitatunga antelope, and many bird species, including the majestic Big Five.
The park's abundant wildlife includes thriving populations of lions, reintroduced in 2015 after a two-decade absence, and black rhinos, reintroduced in 2017. The exclusive-use area of Wilderness Magashi also offers a prime habitat for leopards. This immersive experience provides a rare opportunity to explore a rich tapestry of wildlife in one of Africa's most scenic settings.
Accommodation in Akagera National Park:
Sadly, all good things must come to an end. Enjoy your last morning in nature, make your way back to Kigali for your onward connections home. Want to stay a little longer and explore more – ask us how!
An Enchanting 10-Day Expedition Through Rwanda's Pristine Wilderness and Majestic Wildlife
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