6 Days Rwanda Primate Safari Adventure

Tour Overview

The 6 Days Rwanda Primate Safari Adventure offers an unforgettable journey through Rwanda’s most iconic primate destinations. This safari combines chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park with mountain gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, you will also enjoy a Kigali city tour and a thrilling canopy walk experience above the ancient rainforest.

Nyungwe Forest is home to over 13 primate species, including about 400 chimpanzees, while Volcanoes National Park provides a rare opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas and the playful golden monkeys found only in the Virunga region. This safari is designed for individuals, couples, and groups seeking a well-rounded primate and nature experience in the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

6-Day Rwanda Primate Safari Highlights

Day #1: Arrival at Kigali International Airport and have a city tour.
Day #2: Transfer from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Day #3: Chimpanzee trekking and Canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Day #4: Transfer from Nyungwe Forest National Park to Volcanoes National Park.
Day #5: Gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
Day #6: Golden monkey trekking and transfer back to Kigali town or Kigali International Airport

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Kigali International Airport and City Tour
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your safari guide who will brief you about your trip. You will then be transferred to Kigali city for lunch and a guided city tour. Highlights include the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and craft centers. After the tour, you will check in at your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Meal Plan: Dinner
Accommodation Options: Luxury – Serena Hotel Kigali, Mid-range – Hotel Chez Lando, Budget – Iris Guest House

Day 2: Transfer from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, you will depart Kigali and embark on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a journey of approximately 5 to 6 hours. Along the way, enjoy views of rolling hills, tea plantations, and rural landscapes. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge, relax, and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation Options: Luxury – One and Only Nyungwe House, Mid-range – Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Budget – Gisakura Guest House

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest
Early in the morning, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing before starting your chimpanzee trekking experience. You will trek through the dense rainforest in search of chimpanzees, guided by experienced rangers. Once located, you will spend one hour observing their behavior and interactions.

After returning for lunch and some relaxation, you will proceed for the canopy walk in the afternoon. This suspended bridge stretches about 160 meters and rises approximately 70 meters above the forest floor, offering breathtaking views of the treetops, birdlife, and surrounding landscapes.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Transfer from Nyungwe Forest National Park to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, you will depart Nyungwe and drive to Volcanoes National Park in the north of Rwanda. This scenic journey takes about 5 to 6 hours. Upon arrival, you will check in at your lodge, relax, and enjoy dinner while preparing for the gorilla trekking experience the following day.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation Options: Luxury – Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Mid-range – Gorilla Solution Lodge, Budget – Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking guidelines. You will then begin your trek through the forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek can take between 2 to 6 hours depending on the movement of the gorillas.

Once you find them, you will spend one hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. After the experience, you will return to the lodge for relaxation and overnight stay.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6: Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Kigali
After breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing before starting your golden monkey trekking experience. These lively and colorful primates are unique to the Virunga region and are often seen moving through bamboo forests.

After the trek, you will return to the lodge for lunch and later transfer back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be dropped off at the airport for your departure, marking the end of your safari.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

Inclusions

English-speaking driver-guide
Park entry fees and government taxes
Gorilla trekking permit
Chimpanzee trekking permit
4×4 safari vehicle
Accommodation as per itinerary
Meals as indicated
Drinking water during the safari

Exclusions

International flights and visas
Personal expenses such as tips, drinks, and souvenirs
Any changes to the itinerary