This ultimate primate expedition takes you through the heart of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to witness Africa’s most iconic wildlife. Your journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital city, before venturing into the ancient canopy of Nyungwe National Park. Here, you will experience thrilling chimpanzee trekking and discover a variety of montane bird species.
Transitioning across the border, you will explore the rugged wilderness of Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Congo. This unique destination offers the rare opportunity to track Eastern Lowland Gorillas in their natural habitat. After your adventure in the DRC, you will return to Rwanda to relax along the scenic shores of Lake Kivu, the perfect spot to unwind between forest excursions.
The adventure reaches its peak in Volcanoes National Park, where you will trek to find the legendary Mountain Gorillas and playful Golden Monkeys. Throughout the trip, you will engage in immersive cultural tours, meeting local communities and learning about the rich traditions of the region. This comprehensive primate safari seamlessly blends high-energy trekking with deep cultural insights for a truly unforgettable African experience.
Day 1: Arrival In Kigali -Rwanda
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, a friendly representative from our team will greet you with a warm Rwandese welcome. To ensure a smooth start to your journey, your professional driver-guide will arrive well ahead of time, ready to assist with your luggage and help you exchange currency into Rwandan Francs.
Once you are settled, we will transfer you directly to your hotel in the heart of Kigali for a relaxing overnight stay. This initial introduction allows you to unwind after your flight while your guide provides a brief orientation of the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” By handling all the logistics from the moment you land, we ensure your primate safari begins with total comfort and peace of mind.
Accommodation: Milles Collines
Day 2: Kigali city tour & Transfer to Nyungwe National park
Start your day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a comprehensive Kigali city tour at 7:00 AM. Your morning begins with a moving visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, offering deep insight into Rwanda’s resilient history, followed by a vibrant walk through the bustling Kimironko Market. After a local lunch, you will complete your PCR test to fulfill the health requirements for the upcoming chimpanzee trekking adventure.
At 1:00 PM, you will begin the five-hour scenic drive to Nyungwe National Park, a premier destination for primate lovers. As you head toward the southwest, the journey takes you through the stunning, terraced hillsides that define Rwanda’s iconic landscape. By late afternoon, you will reach the lush borders of the ancient Nyungwe forest, ready to settle in for an evening of relaxation before meeting the chimpanzees.
Accommodation: Kivu Mentis Marina Hotel
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe
Begin your morning early as you head to the park headquarters at 6:00 AM for an essential pre-trek briefing. Nyungwe National Park serves as a vital sanctuary for Rwanda’s chimpanzee population, which is estimated at 400 to 500 individuals living within the main forest and the nearby Cyamudongo Forest pocket.
Shortly after the briefing, you will plunge into the lush rainforest for a chimpanzee trekking adventure. This immersive experience typically lasts between 5 and 6 hours as you track these vocal primates through the canopy. Following the trek, take time to enjoy a well-deserved lunch while admiring the park’s spectacular scenery and the vibrant green tea plantations that border the forest.
At 2:00 PM, the excitement continues with the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walk. This exhilarating experience leads you across a suspended bridge high above the trees, offering a bird’s-eye view of the ancient forest and its diverse wildlife. After this high-altitude thrill, you will have the rest of the afternoon to soak in the serene atmosphere of one of Africa’s oldest rainforests.
Accommodation: Kivu Mentis Marina Hotel
Day 4: Eastern low land Gorilla Trekking
Start your day at 6:00 AM with a transfer to the park headquarters for a vital pre-trek orientation. Nyungwe National Park protects a significant portion of Rwanda’s primate heritage, sheltering an estimated 500 chimpanzees within the primary forest and the Cyamudongo sanctuary.
Immediately after your briefing, you will head into the dense jungle for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking expedition. Expect to spend 5 to 6 hours tracking these charismatic primates as they swing through the high canopy. Once you emerge from the forest, you will enjoy a relaxing lunch overlooking the park’s rolling landscapes and the picturesque, emerald-green tea plantations that surround the area.
Later, at 2:00 PM, prepare for the thrill of the Nyungwe Canopy Walk. This suspended bridge hangs 70 meters above the forest floor, providing a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the ancient treetops and hidden wildlife. To conclude your day, you will spend the late afternoon soaking in the tranquil beauty of one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforests.
Day 5: Visit Lake Kivu
After enjoying breakfast, you will head to the Cyangugu border at 6:30 AM to cross back into Rwanda. From there, take a scenic drive to Kibuye, the most picturesque town on the shores of Lake Kivu, where your aquatic adventure begins at 9:30 AM.
Once you board the boat, you will embark on an immersive Lake Kivu boat cruise to explore the lake’s hidden gems. First, visit the famous Napoleon Island, known for its massive colony of fruit bats, followed by a stop at Monkey Island to spot local primates in their unique island habitat. To deepen your cultural connection, you will also participate in an authentic coffee experience, following the journey of the bean from the volcanic soil to your cup.
After your morning on the water, you will leave the tranquil lakeside behind and transfer to Musanze. This scenic drive brings you to the gateway of the majestic Volcanoes National Park, where you will settle in for the evening in preparation for your upcoming mountain adventures.
Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking
Following a fresh breakfast, head to the park headquarters at 7:00 AM for an essential briefing on your upcoming adventure. Today, you have the rare opportunity to track the vibrant Golden Monkeys within the lush bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park.
Begin your trek into the forest to observe these playful, endangered primates in their natural habitat. After spending a magical hour watching them swing through the canopy, you will hike back to the base in time for a well-deserved meal. You can choose to enjoy lunch at your lodge or sample authentic flavors at a local restaurant in Musanze.
At 2:00 PM, your immersion continues with an afternoon Rwandan cultural experience. This engaging visit allows you to witness traditional dance performances, explore ancient customs, and interact with the local community to see how Rwanda’s rich heritage thrives today.
Day 7: Twin lakes Exploration & Departure
After enjoying a final breakfast, start your morning with a scenic visit to the breathtaking Twin Lakes, Burera and Ruhondo. Take a guided walk through the nearby local villages, offering you a final chance to connect with the warm hospitality of the Rwandan people and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
Following your morning exploration, you will begin your transfer back to Kigali, timed perfectly with your flight schedule. Upon reaching the capital, you will have the opportunity to visit local craft markets to buy authentic Rwandan souvenirs, such as hand-woven baskets or local coffee.
To conclude your journey, your driver will transfer you directly to Kigali International Airport for your departure. As you head to your gate, you’ll carry with you the unforgettable memories of your primate safari and the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”