5 Days Rwanda primate safari

The 5 Days Rwanda Primate Safari is a remarkable journey through Rwanda’s most famous wildlife destinations, combining chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park with mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This safari offers the opportunity to encounter two of Africa’s most sought-after primates while exploring Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes, lush rainforests, rolling hills, and vibrant culture. It is the perfect adventure for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers seeking unforgettable primate experiences.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your driver-guide and briefed about the safari. Begin the scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, passing rolling hills, tea plantations, and traditional villages.

En route, visit the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza or enjoy scenic stops for photography. Continue to Nyungwe Forest and arrive at your lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation Options

Budget: Gisakura Visitor Centre Guest House

Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House

Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking and Canopy Walk

After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing before starting your chimpanzee tracking adventure. Accompanied by experienced park guides, enter the rainforest in search of habituated chimpanzees.

Once located, observe these energetic primates as they feed, communicate, and move through the forest canopy. Nyungwe Forest is also home to several other primate species, making the trek even more rewarding.

Return to the lodge for lunch before heading back to the forest for the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walk. Suspended high above the forest floor, the walkway provides stunning views of the rainforest and its wildlife.

Accommodation: As above

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Enjoy breakfast before departing Nyungwe Forest and travelling north to Volcanoes National Park. The journey takes you through Rwanda’s picturesque landscapes, offering beautiful views of terraced hillsides, rural communities, and volcanic peaks.

Arrive at your lodge near the park in the late afternoon. Relax and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking experience.

Accommodation Options

Budget: Kinigi Guest House, Hotel Muhabura

Mid-range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Luxury: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Virunga Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast, transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for registration and a briefing by park rangers. You will be assigned a gorilla family and guided into the forest for your trek.

The duration of the trek varies depending on the location of the gorilla family. Once the gorillas are found, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watch them feed, play, groom each other, and interact within their family groups.

After the experience, return to the lodge for relaxation and an overnight stay.

Accommodation: As above

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Return to Kigali and Departure

After breakfast, check out of the lodge and begin the drive back to Kigali. Enjoy the scenic journey through Rwanda’s countryside.

Depending on your departure schedule, you may enjoy a short city tour, shopping for souvenirs, or visiting local craft markets before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch