Journey Details
- Start / End
- Kigali International Airport or your hotel in Kigali → Kigali, Rwanda
- Languages
- English, French, German (on request)
- Guide
- Expert Local Guide
- Group Size
- 2–12
- Accommodation
- Superior
About This Journey
Overview
Discover Rwanda on an immersive 11-day safari combining mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, wildlife and cultural experiences. Begin in Kigali before travelling into the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe National Park, where chimpanzee trekking, a canopy walk and guided nature hikes reveal Rwanda’s remarkable biodiversity.
Continue to Volcanoes National Park for an unforgettable mountain gorilla encounter, followed by a visit to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. Your journey then moves east to Akagera National Park for game drives and a boat safari on Lake Ihema before returning to Kigali.
This itinerary is well suited to international travellers looking to experience Rwanda’s gorillas, chimpanzees, rainforest, savannah wildlife and living culture in one comprehensive journey.
The Route Ahead
Every stop, stay and meal — laid out so you know exactly what each day holds.
Arrival in Kigali - Unveiling the City's Heart
Arrive in Kigali, Rwanda's vibrant capital. Embark on a city tour, exploring its bustling markets, historical landmarks, and gaining insights into Rwandan life. Pay your respects at the Genocide Memorial, learning about the country's history and its remarkable spirit of reconciliation.
Journey to the Emerald Embrace: Nyungwe National Park
Depart Kigali and travel towards Nyungwe National Park, a verdant tapestry of rainforest teeming with primate life. Settle into your lodge and prepare for your exciting encounters with the wonders of the forest
Unveiling Chimpanzees & Cultural Gems
Embark on a thrilling chimpanzee trek in Nyungwe National Park. Observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat and witness their social interactions. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Rwandan culture with a visit to a traditional village. Learn about local customs, participate in demonstrations, and gain a deeper appreciation for Rwanda's rich heritage.
A Walk Among the Giants: The Nyungwe Canopy Walk
Experience the thrill of a canopy walk high above the lush rainforest floor. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the Nyungwe landscape and keep an eye out for colorful birds and other wildlife. Embark on a guided nature hike through the diverse rainforest ecosystem, spotting unique flora and fauna.
Chasing Gorillas: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Depart Nyungwe and journey towards Volcanoes National Park, the legendary home of mountain gorillas. Nestled amidst the Virunga Mountains, this park offers the chance to encounter these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.
A Dream Realized: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Embark on a life-changing experience - gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Hike through the verdant slopes in search of mountain gorillas, and spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural environment.
Immersing in Culture: Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village & Optional Golden Monkeys
Visit the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village and delve into the rich traditions of Rwandan life. Witness traditional dances, demonstrations of everyday activities, and learn about the history and customs of Rwandan people. For an additional adventure, embark on an optional golden monkey trek in the afternoon, spotting these playful primates known for their vibrant fur.
Embracing the Savannah: Transfer to Akagera National Park
Depart Volcanoes National Park and travel towards Akagera National Park. This diverse ecosystem boasts wide open savannas, lush woodlands, and a plethora of wildlife waiting to be discovered.
Unveiling Akagera's Treasures: Game Drive & Boat Safari
Embark on a thrilling game drive in Akagera National Park, searching for lions, elephants, zebras, and a variety of other wildlife. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on Lake Ihema, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and a vast array of birdlife.
Kigali Revisited: Craft Market Treasures
Return to Kigali and enjoy some free time exploring the city's vibrant atmosphere. Visit the bustling craft markets and discover unique Rwandan souvenirs, handcrafted by local artisans.
Farewell, Rwanda
Transfer to the airport for your departure, bidding farewell to Rwanda and the unforgettable memories of your adventure.
Departure Dates & Pricing
Available on request — tell us your preferred dates and we'll tailor a departure around them.
What's Included
- Accommodation as per itinerary
- Ground transportation
- Activities and excursions as specified (gorilla trekking permits, park entrance fees, cultural village visits, guided hikes, game drives, boat safaris)
- Expert guides
What's Excluded
- Meals (except where specified)
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities
Frequently Asked Questions
East Africa — including Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania — welcomes hundreds of thousands of international visitors every year, and the overwhelming majority return home with wonderful memories and no safety issues.
The main tourist areas (national parks, gorilla trekking zones, established lodges, and well-travelled routes) are generally very safe when you travel with a reputable operator. Crime against tourists is relatively rare in these environments. Like any destination in the world, larger cities require normal urban awareness, especially after dark.
Safety can vary by country and by region, and the situation can change. For this reason we always recommend that you check the latest official travel advice from your own government’s embassy or foreign office before you book and again closer to your departure date. This is the most reliable and up-to-date source of information.
At Tuntu Safaris we take safety extremely seriously. We use experienced local guides, well-maintained vehicles, carefully selected lodges, and proven routes. Your wellbeing is our highest priority from the moment you arrive until you leave.
This is one of the best questions you can ask, and the answer depends on the kind of experience you want.
Uganda is ideal if you want exceptional variety in a single country. Here you can trek mountain gorillas, track chimpanzees, enjoy classic game drives, boat safaris, and beautiful scenery — all without excessive travel days. It feels less commercial than some of its neighbours and offers outstanding value, especially for gorilla trekking.
Rwanda is perfect for a short, high-end, polished trip focused on mountain gorillas. The infrastructure and service standards are excellent, and the experience is very exclusive.
Kenya and Tanzania are the classic choices for big open savannahs, large numbers of the Big Five, and (in season) the Great Migration. They deliver the iconic “endless plains” safari experience many people picture when they think of Africa.
Many of our guests combine two countries. Uganda + Rwanda is a particularly popular pairing for primate lovers. We’re happy to help you decide based on the length of your trip, your interests, and your budget.
Uganda can be visited year-round, but conditions change with the seasons.
The two dry seasons — June to September and December to February — are generally considered the best times for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Trails are less muddy and hiking is more comfortable. Wildlife viewing in the savannah parks is also excellent during these months as animals gather around water sources.
The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring lush green landscapes, excellent birdwatching, fewer visitors, and sometimes better availability of gorilla permits and lodge rooms. Trekking is still very possible, though you should expect some mud and rain.
If your main goal is comfortable gorilla trekking, aim for the dry seasons. If you prefer quieter parks and don’t mind a bit of rain, the green seasons can be wonderfully rewarding.
A standard gorilla trekking permit in Uganda currently costs USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents. This allows you one hour with a habituated gorilla family in Bwindi or Mgahinga.
A gorilla habituation experience permit (which lets you spend up to four hours with a group still being habituated) costs USD 1,500.
Permits are limited and sell out quickly in peak season, so we recommend securing them as early as possible. We handle the entire permit booking process for our clients.
