Overview:
Embark on an extraordinary 14-Day Best of Rwanda Gorilla Adventure through the heart of Rwanda, a country renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. This itinerary blends the excitement of gorilla trekking with immersive cultural experiences and the exploration of Rwanda’s pristine national parks. From the bustling streets of Kigali to the serene shores of Lake Kivu and the majestic mountains of Volcanoes National Park, each day promises new and thrilling adventures. You’ll witness breathtaking wildlife, engage with local communities, and gain a deep appreciation for Rwanda’s history and culture.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide, who will accompany you throughout your journey. A comfortable transfer will take you to your hotel, where you can unwind after your flight. Take the evening to relax and acclimate to your new surroundings, perhaps enjoying a leisurely dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.
Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Kigali City Tour
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda. Your city tour will include a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you can gain a deep understanding of the country’s poignant history and its remarkable journey of reconciliation and recovery. Next, you’ll explore the bustling local markets, filled with colorful handicrafts, fresh produce, and friendly vendors. This day provides a comprehensive introduction to Rwandan culture and history.
Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, depart Kigali and enjoy a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, which lies along the eastern border of Rwanda. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your lodge and have time to settle in before embarking on an afternoon boat trip on Lake Ihema. As you glide across the water, keep an eye out for hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species that inhabit the lake’s shores. This tranquil boat trip offers a wonderful introduction to the park’s diverse wildlife.
Accommodation: Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Plan: Kigali to Akagera National Park (Approx. 2.5 hours)
Day 4: Game Drives in Akagera National Park
Rise early for a thrilling morning game drive in Akagera National Park. Your guide will help you spot a range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and antelopes. The park’s varied landscapes, from savannah to wetlands, provide a stunning backdrop for your wildlife encounters. After a mid-day rest and lunch back at the lodge, you’ll head out again for an afternoon game drive, offering another opportunity to see the park’s inhabitants as they become more active in the cooler hours.
Accommodation: Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Enjoy a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. The journey will take you through lush landscapes and picturesque villages, with a stop at the Ethnographic Museum in Huye, where you can delve into Rwanda’s cultural heritage. The museum’s exhibits provide fascinating insights into the traditional life of Rwandans, from their artisanal crafts to their agricultural practices. Upon arrival at Nyungwe Forest, check into your luxurious lodge and take some time to relax amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Plan: Akagera National Park to Nyungwe Forest National Park (Approx. 6 hours)
Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
Wake up early for an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking adventure in Nyungwe Forest. Following a briefing by your guide, you’ll set off into the forest to track these fascinating primates. As you navigate the dense foliage, listen for the calls of the chimpanzees and watch for movement in the trees above. Spending time with these intelligent and social animals is a truly memorable experience. After lunch, take a canopy walk to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the forest and its diverse flora and fauna.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Relax and Explore Nyungwe Forest
Today, enjoy a more leisurely pace as you explore the natural beauty of Nyungwe Forest. You can choose from a variety of activities, such as nature walks to discover the park’s rich biodiversity, bird watching to spot some of the 300 species found here, or a visit to the nearby tea plantations where you can learn about the tea production process and sample some of Rwanda’s finest teas. This day offers a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Transfer to Lake Kivu
Depart Nyungwe Forest and drive to Lake Kivu, one of the African Great Lakes, renowned for its serene beauty and tranquil waters. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing by the lakeside or taking a boat trip to explore the surrounding islands. The lake’s clear waters are ideal for swimming, and its scenic shores offer a perfect setting for unwinding after the adventures of the past few days.
Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Plan: Nyungwe Forest National Park to Lake Kivu (Approx. 4 hours)
Day 9: Lake Kivu Leisure Day
Enjoy a day of leisure at Lake Kivu. Engage in a variety of water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, or take a relaxing boat ride to explore the lake’s numerous islands. You can also visit local fishing villages to learn about the traditional fishing practices and the daily lives of the local people. Alternatively, simply relax on the beach and soak up the peaceful atmosphere, enjoying the stunning views over the lake and the surrounding hills.
Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, drive to Volcanoes National Park, the gateway to Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and take some time to prepare for the exciting gorilla trekking experience that awaits you. In the afternoon, you might choose to visit the nearby Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you can immerse yourself in traditional Rwandan culture, watch cultural performances, and learn about the local way of life.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Plan: Lake Kivu to Volcanoes National Park (Approx. 3 hours)
Day 11: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the highlight of your adventure – gorilla trekking. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing by the park rangers before setting off into the forest. The trek can be challenging, but the reward is an unforgettable hour spent with a family of mountain gorillas. Watching these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a truly awe-inspiring experience, offering a rare glimpse into their lives and behaviors. After the trek, return to your lodge to rest and reflect on this incredible encounter.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Golden Monkey Trekking
Begin your day with golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. These playful and energetic primates are a joy to watch as they leap through the bamboo forest, making for a fun and engaging experience. The trek to find the golden monkeys is less strenuous than gorilla trekking, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful forest scenery at a more relaxed pace. Return to the lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps taking a stroll around the lodge grounds or enjoying the views from your balcony.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Cultural Experiences
Delve into the local culture with a visit to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you can learn about traditional Rwandan customs, watch cultural performances, and participate in community activities. This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of the local way of life and the rich cultural heritage of Rwanda. In the afternoon, visit the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo for stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. These lakes, nestled at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes, offer a serene escape and beautiful landscapes.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: Departure
After breakfast, transfer back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kigali before being transferred to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the incredible experiences of the past two weeks as you head home, carrying with you memories of Rwanda’s natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Driving Plan: Volcanoes National Park to Kigali (Approx. 2.5 hours)
Inclusions:
- Park fees(For non-residents)
- Gorilla permits(One per person, non-resident)
- Chimp permits(One per person, non-resident)
- All activities(Unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinks(As specified in the day-by-day section)
Exclusions:
- International flights(From/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips(Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fee
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