7 Days Rwanda’s Primate & Scenic Wonders Tour

After breakfast, you will begin your scenic journey south through Rwanda’s breathtaking countryside. As you travel along winding roads, you’ll pass rolling green hills, terraced farms, colourful villages and bustling local markets, offering an authentic glimpse into everyday Rwandan life.

En route, stop in Butare to explore Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage before continuing to the King’s Palace at Nyanza, where you’ll gain fascinating insight into the country’s royal traditions and admire the magnificent long-horned Inyambo cattle.

Pause for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing through some of Rwanda’s most spectacular landscapes towards Nyungwe National Park. Arrive at your forest lodge in the late afternoon, where the sounds of the rainforest create the perfect setting to relax and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure.

Rise early and enjoy breakfast before collecting your packed snacks and heading to the park headquarters for a briefing by your ranger guide.

Step into the ancient rainforest as you begin your search for one of Nyungwe’s habituated chimpanzee communities. The forest awakens with birdsong while the distant calls of chimpanzees echo through the towering canopy. Follow your experienced ranger along winding forest trails, listening carefully as you track these energetic primates through the trees. Every trek is unique, making each encounter both exciting and rewarding.

After your trek, return to the lodge for lunch and some time to relax before setting out on a guided nature walk to the beautiful Kamiranzovu Waterfall. Wander beneath towering trees, cross wooden bridges and discover hidden forest streams while keeping an eye out for colourful butterflies, birds and other fascinating forest wildlife along the way.

Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and a relaxing night surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest.

Enjoy breakfast before departing for the beautiful lakeside town of Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu. Today’s scenic drive winds through rolling hills, tea plantations and picturesque villages, with breathtaking views unfolding around every corner.

Arrive in time for lunch before checking into your lakeside accommodation.

Thereafter, explore Gisenyi with your guide. Wander through the lively local market, stroll along the lakeshore or simply relax and soak up the town’s laid-back atmosphere. For those wishing to experience Lake Kivu from the water, an optional boat excursion (USD 40 per person) takes you to one of the nearby islands, offering spectacular scenery, peaceful surroundings and wonderful photo opportunities.

Return to your lodge as the sun begins to set over Lake Kivu, then enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening.

Following breakfast, continue your journey towards the magnificent Virunga Volcanoes.

En route, visit the Imbabazi Foundation, where beautifully maintained gardens and inspiring stories offer a moving insight into Rwanda’s remarkable journey of resilience and hope. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while local performers welcome you with traditional music and dance, creating a memorable community experience.

Continue to your lodge near Volcanoes National Park, arriving in time for lunch.

In the afternoon, visit the stunning Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Framed by lush green hills and the towering Virunga Volcanoes, these tranquil lakes offer some of Rwanda’s most spectacular scenery. Take in the panoramic views, capture unforgettable photographs and simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxed evening.

Today is undoubtedly the highlight of your Rwandan adventure. Following an early breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Kinigi Park Headquarters, where you will meet your ranger guides for a briefing before beginning your unforgettable gorilla trek.

Venture into the mist-covered forests of the Virunga Mountains, following forest trails through bamboo groves and lush vegetation in search of one of the habituated mountain gorilla families. Every trek is different, with the duration ranging from one to five hours depending on the gorillas’ movements.

It is such an extraordinary reward once the gorillas are located, you will spend one unforgettable hour quietly observing these gentle giants as they feed, play and interact with one another. Standing only a few metres away from these magnificent primates, such an emotional experience that few wildlife encounters can rival.

After the trek, return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch and time to relax or immerse your selves further in Rwanda’s culture have an optional visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village ($20 pp) where members of the local community share their traditions through music, dance, storytelling and demonstrations of daily village life. This gives a meaningful insight into Rwandan culture while directly supporting local livelihoods.

You will then return to your lodge, freshen up and have dinner.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing for Kigali.

Depending on your flight schedule, discover some of the city’s highlights with your guide. Visit vibrant craft markets where local artisans display beautifully handcrafted souvenirs, explore cultural landmarks or simply enjoy the city’s clean streets, welcoming atmosphere and lively cafés.

After some last-minute shopping, transfer to Kigali International Airport in time for your onward flight, bringing your unforgettable Rwandan adventure to a close.