7 Days Rwanda Primates Safari And Culture Experience

Overview

This 7-days Rwanda safari offers an exciting chance to explore the country’s unique primate experiences and rich cultural heritage. You will trek to see the incredible mountain gorillas, tour the vibrant city of Kigali, and visit key cultural sites, like the King’s Palace Museum.

Highlights

  • Gorilla trekking thrill of encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat at Volcanoes National Park.
  • Chimpanzee trekking to observe chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park.
  • Visit Gisakura Tea Estate to learn about tea cultivation, harvesting, and processing, while enjoying scenic views.
  • Cultural interactions with local communities and learn about their traditions and lifestyles during visits to cultural villages.
  •  Enjoy breathtaking landscapes, including rolling tea hills, Lake Kivu, and the lush Nyungwe Forest.
  • Spot various primates, including Colobus monkeys, and diverse bird species in their natural environments.
  •  Unwind at comfortable lodges and hotels throughout the journey, enjoying local cuisine and hospitality.
  • Explore Rwanda’s capital city Kigali, visiting significant sites like the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local markets for souvenirs.

Itineraries

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Nyungwe National Park

Your adventure begins with a 6:00 AM pickup from Kigali International Airport or your hotel. On your way to Nyungwe National Park, you will stop at the King’s Palace Museum, where you can immerse yourself in Rwandan culture specifically the formal loyal monarchy. After that, you will see the iconic Inyambo cows. After this enriching visit, you’ll continue your drive to Nyungwe National Park, where you will check in at your hotel. Take some time to relax and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Tea Plantation Experience

Wake up early, as chimpanzee trekking starts as early as 5:00 AM in Nyungwe National Park. This thrilling experience allows you to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. After trekking, enjoy some downtime before heading to Gisakura Tea Estate for a delightful tea plantation experience, where you can learn about tea production and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Day 3: Scenic Transfer to Musanze

On day 3, you’ll transfer from Nyungwe National Park to Musanze via the picturesque Kivu Belt road. This scenic route offers stunning views of tea plantations, Lake Kivu, and Gishwati Forest National Park. Upon arrival in Musanze, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park. This remarkable opportunity allows you to see these incredible creatures up close in their natural habitat. The trek can take up from 1 to 8 hours depending on where the allocated gorilla family is. You are allowed 1 hour with them experiencing them, and taking pictures with them before heading back to the starting point.

Day 5: Golden Monkey Trekking and Cultural Tour

The following day features golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park, offering another chance to connect with Rwanda’s unique Golden Monkeys which are known to be light and playful creatures, the trek can take up to 2 hours then spend 1 hour with them while taking pictures and following them around as the feast on bamboos. Afterwards, visit Ibyiwacu Cultural Village for an immersive cultural experience that highlights local traditions such as Rwandan songs, traditional dances and lifestyles.

Day 6: Visit to Ellen DeGeneres Campus by Dian Fossey

Start your day with a healthy breakfast at your hotel before visiting the Ellen DeGeneres Campus by Dian Fossey. This educational tour provides insight into conservation efforts for mountain gorillas and about the life of the late famous  American primatologist and conservationist Dian Fossey known for undertaking an extensive study of mountain gorilla groups from 1966 until her murder in 1985. She studied them daily in the mountain forests of Rwanda. After your visit, you’ll transfer back to Kigali.

Day 7: Kigali City Tour

On your final day, enjoy breakfast before embarking on a city tour of Kigali. Visit significant sites such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial and Campaign Against Genocide Museum. You’ll also have time for shopping for gifts and souvenirs at Kimironko Market, rounding off your memorable Rwandan adventure.

  • Ground transportation in 4WD Vehicle
  • Soft Drinks
  • Meals
  • Accommodation
  • Park entrance fees
  • Gorilla Permit
  • Chimpanzee permit
  • Kigali city tour
  • Service of an English-speaking driver-guide
  • Airfares & Visa fees
  • Luxury drinks/Alcoholic drinks
  • Tips to local guides
  • Personal insurance and shopping