11-Day Rwandan Odyssey: Gorillas, Chimps & Wildlife Encounters
Embark on a thrilling wildlife and adventure safari through Rwanda, where each day promises exciting encounters with the country's rich natural heritage and vibrant culture.
Overview
Discover Rwanda through a journey that combines primates, wildlife, rainforest and cultural experiences. Begin in Kigali before travelling to Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee trekking, a canopy walk and time with local communities. Continue north to Volcanoes National Park for the highlight of the journey: gorilla trekking among the Virunga Mountains. The adventure then moves to Akagera National Park, where game drives and a Lake Ihema boat safari offer a different side of Rwanda. With time in Kigali at the beginning and end, this itinerary brings together Rwanda’s forests, savannahs, wildlife and cultural heritage in one carefully planned journey.
Trip at a glance 11 days
Route: Akagera National Park → Kigali City → Nyungwe National Park → Safaris in Rwanda → Volcanoes National Park
- Day 1: Arrival in Kigali | City & Cultural Heritage
- Day 2: Kigali to Nyungwe National Park | Into the Rainforest
- Day 3: Nyungwe National Park | Chimpanzee Trekking & Cultural Experience
- Day 4: Nyungwe National Park | Canopy Walk & Nature Hike
- Day 5: Nyungwe to Volcanoes National Park | Journey to Gorilla Country
- Day 6: Volcanoes National Park | Gorilla Trekking
- Day 7: Volcanoes National Park | Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village & Optional Golden Monkeys
- Day 8: Volcanoes National Park to Akagera National Park | Into the Savannah
- Day 9: Akagera National Park | Game Drive & Lake Ihema Boat Safari
- Day 10: Akagera to Kigali | Craft Markets & City Life
- Day 11: Kigali | Departure
Full Itinerary
Arrival in Kigali | City & Cultural Heritage
Arrive in Kigali and begin your Rwandan adventure with a city tour. Explore the capital’s markets and landmarks before visiting the Genocide Memorial, gaining insight into Rwanda’s history and its journey of reconciliation.
Kigali to Nyungwe National Park | Into the Rainforest
Travel south from Kigali towards Nyungwe National Park, a vast rainforest known for its primate-rich ecosystem. Settle into your lodge and prepare for the forest experiences ahead.
Nyungwe National Park | Chimpanzee Trekking & Cultural Experience
Head into Nyungwe for a chimpanzee trek and the chance to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. Later, visit a traditional village to learn about local customs, everyday life and Rwandan cultural traditions.
Nyungwe National Park | Canopy Walk & Nature Hike
Experience the Nyungwe canopy walk, taking you above the rainforest floor for a different perspective of the forest. Continue with a guided nature hike through the diverse ecosystem, looking for birds, plants and other wildlife.
Nyungwe to Volcanoes National Park | Journey to Gorilla Country
Leave Nyungwe and travel north towards Volcanoes National Park. The journey takes you to the Virunga Mountains and the forested landscapes that provide habitat for Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.
Volcanoes National Park | Gorilla Trekking
Today brings the journey’s defining experience: gorilla trekking. Hike through the forested slopes of Volcanoes National Park in search of a mountain gorilla family, then spend time observing them in their natural environment.
Volcanoes National Park | Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village & Optional Golden Monkeys
Discover Rwandan traditions at Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village through traditional dances, demonstrations and stories about local life. An optional golden monkey trek offers another opportunity to experience the primates of the Virunga region.
Volcanoes National Park to Akagera National Park | Into the Savannah
Travel east from the Virunga region towards Akagera National Park. The landscape changes from volcanic highlands and forests to open savannah, woodlands and wetlands.
Akagera National Park | Game Drive & Lake Ihema Boat Safari
Explore Akagera on a game drive, looking for lions, elephants, zebras and other wildlife. Later, take a boat safari on Lake Ihema, with opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles and a wide variety of birdlife.
Akagera to Kigali | Craft Markets & City Life
Return to Kigali and enjoy time at your own pace. Explore the city’s craft markets and browse locally made souvenirs created by Rwandan artisans.
Kigali | Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure, bringing your Rwandan journey to an end with memories of gorillas, chimpanzees, wildlife, rainforest and local culture.
What's Included
Included & not included 4 included
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
Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this itinerary be customised?
Yes, every trip can be tailored to your dates, budget and interests.
How do I book, and what deposit is needed?
Reserve a departure on the website or send us an inquiry for a customized engagment and payment link.
Do I need a visa and vaccinations?
Most visitors need an East African Tourist Visa and a yellow fever certificate.
What People Say
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