9 Day Rwanda Tour – Primates and Safari
Tour Overview
Prices From: £5275/$6855 per person sharing
The 9 Days Discovering Rwanda Tour offers an exceptional and immersive journey through the country’s most iconic landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural treasures. This itinerary is designed to showcase the very best of Rwanda, giving you the opportunity to explore all three of its famous national parks—Akagera, Nyungwe, and Volcanoes—each offering a unique environment and unforgettable experiences. From the rolling hills and serene lakes of the east, to the ancient rainforests of the southwest, and finally the mist-covered volcanic peaks of the north, this tour reveals the full diversity and beauty of the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
As you travel across the country, you will enjoy encounters with Rwanda’s extraordinary wildlife, including chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, and both day and night game drives in Akagera National Park in search of the Big Five and other remarkable species. Scenic drives through terraced farmland, lush countryside, and vibrant villages add even more depth to your experience, offering insight into Rwanda’s landscapes and rural life.
Beyond its natural wonders, this journey also places a strong emphasis on cultural exploration. You will visit historic sites, community projects, tea plantations, and lively local markets that highlight the traditions, creativity, and resilience of the Rwandan people. These enriching interactions provide a deeper understanding of the country’s heritage and contemporary culture, creating meaningful connections along the way. By the end of this nine-day adventure, you will have discovered a beautifully balanced blend of nature, wildlife, and culture—making this one of the most remarkable ways to experience Rwanda.
Tour Highlights
- Visit all three major national parks: Akagera, Nyungwe, and Volcanoes
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest
- Day and night game drives in Akagera
- Sunset boat safari on Lake Ihema
- Canopy walk experience in Nyungwe
- Cultural visits, including King’s Palace Museum and local community projects
- Genocide Memorial and Kimironko Market in Kigali
- Scenic drives through Rwanda’s “Thousand Hills” landscapes
- Tea plantation visit and tasting at Gisakura
Day Overview
DAY 1: Arrival in Kigali
Arrive in Kigali and meet your guide for a warm welcome to the Land of a Thousand Hills. After a brief introduction, transfer to your lodge for check-in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure as you settle in for the adventure ahead.
DAY 2: Kigali → Akagera National Park
Depart Kigali after breakfast and enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills toward Akagera National Park. Begin with an introductory game drive upon arrival, then continue to Ruzizi Tented Lodge for lunch and relaxation. Later, take a sunset boat safari on Lake Ihema, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife before dinner and overnight at the lodge.
DAY 3: Full-Day Safari & Night Game Drive
Start the day with a full-day exploration of Akagera’s northern sector—one of the best areas for wildlife viewing, including the Big Five. Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the park before continuing your search for more wildlife. In the evening, embark on a night game drive to encounter nocturnal animals and predators before returning to the lodge.
DAY 4: Akagera → Kigali City Tour
Begin with a dawn game drive in the southern region of the park, then return to the lodge for breakfast. Drive back to Kigali for lunch and visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a profound insight into Rwanda’s history. Conclude the day with a visit to the bustling Kimironko Market before checking in for the night.
DAY 5: Kigali → Nyungwe Forest National Park (Rusizi District)
After breakfast, depart for Nyungwe Forest on a scenic six-hour drive through the countryside. Stop at the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza for a fascinating cultural visit, then continue to Nyungwe. Arrive at your forest lodge, check in, and relax before dinner and an overnight stay.
DAY 6: Chimpanzee Tracking & Canopy Walk – Nyungwe
Enjoy an early start for your chimpanzee tracking adventure in Nyungwe Forest, trekking through ancient rainforest in search of lively chimp communities. In the afternoon, experience the famous canopy walk, offering breathtaking views from high above the treetops and opportunities to spot monkeys, birds, and butterflies. Overnight at your lodge.
DAY 7: Nyungwe → Volcanoes National Park
Visit the Gisakura Tea Plantation in the morning to witness tea harvesting, processing, and enjoy tasting sessions. Continue your journey to Volcanoes National Park, passing through spectacular countryside and terraced hillsides. Enjoy lunch en route before arriving at your lodge near the park for dinner and overnight.
DAY 8: Gorilla Trekking – Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for your gorilla trekking briefing. Hike through the lush Virunga foothills and bamboo forests to meet your assigned gorilla family and spend one unforgettable hour in their presence. Return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation before dinner and overnight.
DAY 9: Golden Monkey Trek & Departure
Begin the day with a golden monkey trek in the beautiful bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch, freshen up, and check out. Enjoy a scenic drive back to Kigali, where you will be transferred to the airport for your international flight home—marking the end of your unforgettable Rwandan journey.
Key Facts
Starts: Kigali, Rwanda
Ends: Kigali, Rwanda
Meals: 6 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners
Travel Style: Mid-Range Comfort
Tour Type: Private/Tailor-made
Transport: Private Road Transfers in 4×4
Validity: Year Round
Includes
- 2 Nights Hôtel des Mille Collines in Kigali
- 2 Nights Ruzizi Tented Lodge in Akagera
- 2 Nights Munanzi Eco Lodge in Nyungwe
- 2 Nights Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge in Volcanoes
- Private Guide and 4×4 Vehicle Throughout
- Entrance Fees and Conservation Fees
- Gorilla Trekking Permit
- Golden Monkey Trekking Permit
- Chimpanzee Trekking Permit
Excludes
- International Flights to/from Kigali
- Drinks
- All activities list as optional
- Visas
- Insurance (essential)
- Laundry
- Items of Personal nature
Dates
January (Low Season)
February (Low Season)
March (Low Season)
April (Low Season)
May (Low Season)
June (High Season)
July (High Season)
August (High Season)
September (High Season)
October (High Season)
November (Low Season)
December (Low Season)
