Greater Rwanda Safari – 10 Days

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport (KGL), your safari guide will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in Kigali, about a 20-30-minute drive away. Your guide will brief you on your itinerary before your safari begins.

Today you will visit the Nyamirambo Women’s Center for an authentic Rwandan cooking experience, beginning with a guided visit to a local market to select fresh ingredients, followed by a hands-on cooking class led by local women, and ending with a traditional homemade lunch. Later, explore the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you will gain insight into Rwanda’s history, the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and the nation’s inspiring journey of healing, reconciliation, and resilience.

Enjoy your breakfast before proceeding further to Nyungwe Forest, famed for its rich biodiversity and vibrant wildlife. Upon arrival, depart on a two-hour walk to the canopy walkway, a 50-meter-long bridge suspended above the lush forest. Take in sweeping views and spot birds, monkeys, and other wildlife moving below. Afterward, relax at the lodge with dinner and an overnight stay.

In the morning, you will head to the park headquarters for a chimpanzee briefing before entering Nyungwe Forest to track chimpanzees. The chimp trek is usually early and a bit demanding, as they are always on the move through the park. Tracking usually takes 3-5 hours, depending on their location. Once found, you will spend one hour observing and taking photos or videos. Afterward, return to your lodging for a relaxing afternoon, dinner, and overnight stay.

Depart Kigali for a scenic drive to Karongi on the shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, nestled along the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy a delicious lunch before spending the remainder of the day at leisure, relaxing and taking in the tranquil beauty of the lakeside surroundings.

Start your day with a one-hour sunrise canoe experience on Lake Kivu, paddling across its calm waters while enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding hills, islands, birdlife, and Napoleon Island. After returning to your lodge for leisure and lunch, enjoy a one-hour evening boat cruise to Amahoro (Peace) Island, Serene Island, and nearby islets, taking in the sunset, birdlife, and scenic tea and coffee plantations along the shoreline.

Travel north to Ruhengeri, at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park, and visit the Gorilla Guardians Village to experience Rwanda’s rich culture through traditional performances, customs, crafts, and local activities. Later, visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Museum to learn about mountain gorilla conservation, Dian Fossey’s legacy, and ongoing protection efforts before heading to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

You’ll begin the day with a briefing on gorilla trekking regulations before setting off on a thrilling trek to meet the magnificent gorillas and take in breathtaking views of the Virungas. During your one-hour encounter, you’ll observe these gentle giants as they play, feed, and interact within their natural habitat. Afterward, return to your hotel for lunch, relaxation, and the option to enjoy a range of additional activities.

Embark on a memorable trek to observe the Golden Monkeys, which are found exclusively in the Virunga Mountains and inhabit the bamboo forests at lower elevations. This trek will be relatively easy, and you can expect to spot the monkeys in under an hour. These beautiful creatures offer excellent opportunities for photography, and you will be allowed to observe them for up to one hour.Afterward, return to your hotel for lunch, before proceeding to Kigali for a leisure evening dinner and overnight

Enjoy a leisurely day at your beautiful lodging. At the designated time, you will proceed to Kigali International Airport for your flight home. Though it is an emotional farewell, we part with the hope of welcoming you back again!