Unveiling Rwanda & Burundi: 11 Days of Gorillas, Forests & Culture
Embark on a captivating journey through Rwanda and Burundi, where you'll discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of these East African countries.
Overview
Discover the contrasting landscapes and cultures of Rwanda and Burundi on an 11-day journey combining rainforest, primates, gorillas and local experiences. Begin in Kigali with an introduction to Rwanda’s history and culture, then travel into Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee trekking, a canopy walk and a forest hike. Continue to Volcanoes National Park for an unforgettable mountain gorilla trek before crossing into Burundi for time around Lake Tanganyika, Bujumbura and Karera Waterfalls.
Trip at a glance 11 days
Route: 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 | Journey into the Rainforest
- Day 3: Nyungwe Forest | Chimpanzee Trekking & Cultural Village
- Day 4: Nyungwe Forest | Canopy Walk & Nature Hike
- Day 5: Nyungwe to Volcanoes National Park | Into Gorilla Country
- Day 6: Volcanoes National Park | Mountain Gorilla Trekking
- Day 7: Volcanoes National Park | Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village & Optional Golden Monkeys
- Day 8: Rwanda to Bujumbura, Burundi | Cross-Border Journey
- Day 9: Bujumbura | Lake Tanganyika Boat Trip & Relaxation
- Day 10: Bujumbura to Karera Waterfalls | Nature & Cultural Experiences
- Day 11: Bujumbura | Departure
Full Itinerary
Arrival in Kigali | City & Cultural Heritage
Arrive in Kigali and begin your Rwanda experience with a city tour. Visit the Genocide Memorial to learn about the country’s history and journey of reconciliation, then explore the National Museum and local markets for an introduction to Rwandan culture and heritage.
Kigali to Nyungwe National Park | Journey into the Rainforest
Leave Kigali and travel south towards Nyungwe National Park. As the landscape changes, settle into the rhythm of the forest and prepare for the days ahead exploring one of Rwanda’s key primate destinations.
Nyungwe Forest | Chimpanzee Trekking & Cultural Village
Start the day with chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, searching for chimpanzees among the rainforest vegetation. Later, visit a local cultural village for an opportunity to learn about traditional Rwandan life and community traditions.
Nyungwe Forest | Canopy Walk & Nature Hike
Experience Nyungwe from above on a canopy walk through the forest treetops, with views across the surrounding landscape. Continue with a nature hike, taking time to explore the forest environment and its distinctive scenery.
Nyungwe to Volcanoes National Park | Into Gorilla Country
Travel from Nyungwe towards Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda. The journey takes you towards the Virunga Mountains and the mountain gorilla habitat, setting the stage for one of the highlights of the trip.
Volcanoes National Park | Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Set out into Volcanoes National Park for mountain gorilla trekking. Hike through the forested slopes in search of a gorilla family and spend time observing these remarkable primates in their natural environment.
Volcanoes National Park | Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village & Optional Golden Monkeys
Visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn more about Rwandan traditions and community life. If you choose the optional activity, continue with a golden monkey trek in the forested slopes of the Virunga region.
Rwanda to Bujumbura, Burundi | Cross-Border Journey
Depart Rwanda and cross into Burundi, travelling towards Bujumbura on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Once in the city, enjoy some free time or explore with an optional city tour focusing on local history and cultural landmarks.
Bujumbura | Lake Tanganyika Boat Trip & Relaxation
Spend the day around Lake Tanganyika with a boat trip and time to relax along its shores. Enjoy the lake at a slower pace after the trekking and forest experiences of Rwanda.
Bujumbura to Karera Waterfalls | Nature & Cultural Experiences
Explore Karera Waterfalls and the surrounding landscape. Hike towards the falls, take in the views and enjoy time in this natural setting, combined with cultural interactions as outlined in the itinerary.
Bujumbura | Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure from Burundi, bringing your Rwanda and Burundi journey to an end.
What's Included
Included & not included 5 included
Included
- Accommodation as per itinerary
- Ground transportation
- Activities and excursions as specified
- Entrance fees and permits
- 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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