Arrival at Kigali International Airport and Transfer to Hotel

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by our experienced 14-day All-Inclusive Rwanda Rare Primates Wildlife Safari guide who will warmly welcome you to the Land of a Thousand Hills – Rwanda. After a brief meet and greet, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kigali city, offering you the first impressions of Rwanda’s scenic landscapes and clean streets. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to relax at the hotel or embark on a brief walk around the local area.

Kigali is renowned for its safety, organization, and hospitality. Your overnight stay will be in one of Kigali’s charming lodges or luxury hotels that perfectly blend modern comfort with Rwandan charm. Dinner will be served at the hotel or a selected fine dining spot in the city, giving you a taste of Rwanda’s rich cuisine. This first night sets the tone for your thrilling two-week safari journey across Rwanda’s pristine wilderness and cultural heritage. Get a good night’s rest in preparation for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.

 Full-Day Kigali City Tour – Discover Rwanda’s Cultural Heritage

Today, you will explore Kigali, a city that beautifully balances modernity with deep cultural roots. After breakfast, embark on a full-day city tour led by your knowledgeable guide. Begin at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide, offering deep insight into Rwanda’s resilience and journey of healing. Next, visit the Kandt House Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Presidential Palace to delve into the country’s past and political history.

A tour of the vibrant Nyamirambo Women’s Center introduces you to community-driven initiatives, followed by a stop at local art galleries showcasing contemporary Rwandan art. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Kimironko Market, where you can interact with local vendors and purchase authentic Rwandan crafts, fabrics, and produce. Lunch will be at a top-rated local restaurant where you’ll savor traditional Rwandan dishes. Return to your hotel in the evening, reflecting on a day filled with cultural enlightenment and warm encounters.

 Transfer to Akagera National Park – Afternoon Game Drive

Following an early breakfast, depart Kigali and embark on a scenic road journey to Akagera National Park in the eastern part of Rwanda. This park is Rwanda’s premier savannah conservation area, home to the Big Five and a rich diversity of wildlife and bird species. Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch, then head out for an afternoon game drive through the southern sector of the park.

Traverse rolling savannahs and woodland habitats as you spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, impalas, and perhaps even lions or leopards. Akagera is a testament to Rwanda’s conservation success story, with reintroduced predators thriving alongside other native species. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a brief sundowner moment before returning to the lodge for dinner. The tranquil surroundings of the park offer an ideal setting for an evening of relaxation under the African stars. This marks the beginning of your unforgettable 14-day All-Inclusive Rwanda Rare Primates Wildlife Safari.

 Southern Akagera National Park Game Drives – Wildlife Encounters

Wake up to the sounds of nature and embark on an early morning game drive through the southern section of Akagera National Park. This area is a haven for herbivores such as elands, topis, and buffaloes, alongside predators like hyenas and lions that often prowl in the early hours. The game drive offers a golden opportunity for wildlife photography, bird watching, and observing animal behavior in their natural habitat.

Your experienced 14-day All-Inclusive Rwanda Rare Primates Wildlife Safari guide will help track animals and interpret their behavior, ensuring an educational and thrilling experience. After several hours in the field, return to the lodge for a mid-morning breakfast and rest. In the afternoon, venture out again for another game drive or opt for a boat safari on Lake Ihema. The boat ride allows close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species including African fish eagles and kingfishers. Conclude the day with a hearty dinner and storytelling around the lodge’s campfire.

 Northern Akagera & Lake Muhazi – Scenic Safari Adventure

Start the day with breakfast before heading towards the northern plains of Akagera, a more open savannah ecosystem that supports large herds of herbivores and predators like leopards and lions. Keep your cameras ready for exceptional wildlife sightings and panoramic views. After a rewarding morning of exploration, exit the park and drive to Lake Muhazi.

This serene lake offers a perfect retreat with opportunities for a relaxed afternoon by the lakeshore. Enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant or lodge, then take part in optional activities such as canoeing, bird watching, or nature walks. The calm waters and verdant surroundings make Lake Muhazi an ideal spot for unwinding after intense safari days. Spend your evening soaking in the tranquil ambiance, perhaps with a bonfire by the lake, as you prepare for the next chapter of your journey. Overnight at a comfortable lodge near the lake.

 Final Game Drive & Return to Kigali – Leisure Evening

Enjoy one last game drive in Akagera National Park early this morning, giving you a chance to catch any wildlife you may have missed. The early hours are ideal for spotting predators on the hunt and herbivores grazing in the fresh morning light. After the drive, exit the park and journey back to Kigali, passing through picturesque countryside and small Rwandan towns. Arrive in Kigali in the afternoon and check into your hotel.

Final Game Drive & Return to Kigali – Leisure Evening

The rest of the day is at your leisure—you may choose to relax at the hotel, shop for souvenirs, or revisit some of the cultural sites. For those interested, optional activities such as visiting local coffee shops, craft centers, or cooking classes can be arranged. Dinner will be at a well-rated Kigali restaurant featuring international or local cuisine. Rest well tonight as the adventure continues tomorrow into Rwanda’s cultural heartlands.

Kigali is renowned for its safety, organization, and hospitality. Your overnight stay will be in one of Kigali’s charming lodges or luxury hotels that perfectly blend modern comfort with Rwandan charm. Dinner will be served at the hotel or a selected fine dining spot in the city, giving you a taste of Rwanda’s rich cuisine. This first night sets the tone for your thrilling two-week safari journey across Rwanda’s pristine wilderness and cultural heritage. Get a good night’s rest in preparation for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.

Nyanza and Butare Cultural Tour – Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After an early breakfast, embark on a fascinating journey southward toward Rwanda’s cultural heartlands, with key stops in Nyanza and Butare. Your first destination is the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, once home to the last traditional monarchs of Rwanda. Here, you’ll explore the royal compound, complete with Inyambo (long-horned) royal cows, and gain insights into Rwanda’s monarchy, customs, and ancient traditions.

Continue onward to Butare (now known as Huye), the intellectual hub of Rwanda, where you’ll visit the Ethnographic Museum. This museum holds an impressive collection of artifacts showcasing Rwanda’s cultural history, arts, and traditions. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading towards Nyungwe Forest National Park, a haven for rare primates and a biodiversity hotspot. Arrive in the late afternoon, check in to your forest lodge, and enjoy the lush views and cool climate. This day offers rich cultural immersion, transitioning beautifully into the rainforest adventures ahead.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe & Afternoon Visit to Kanyaru Coffee Plantation

Today begins with an early morning departure into the dense tropical rainforest of Nyungwe for an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking experience. As you trek through the forest guided by expert rangers, listen for the high-pitched calls of chimpanzees echoing through the trees. Once located, spend a magical hour observing their behaviors—grooming, feeding, and social interactions. Nyungwe is not only home to chimpanzees but also hosts over 12 other primate species, including L’Hoest’s monkeys and Rwenzori colobus.

After the tracking experience, return to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Kanyaru Coffee Plantation where you’ll learn about Rwanda’s prized coffee industry. Engage in hands-on experiences, from bean picking to roasting and tasting the rich brews. This visit blends agro-tourism with cultural storytelling, revealing how coffee supports local communities. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight, enriched by both natural and cultural experiences.

 Transfer to Gisenyi – Lake Kivu Water Activities & Beach Relaxation

After breakfast, depart Nyungwe and begin your scenic drive northward to the picturesque lakeside town of Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu. En route, enjoy panoramic views of hills, tea plantations, and small rural communities, giving you a taste of Rwanda’s untouched countryside. Arrive in Gisenyi in time for lunch and check-in at your lakeside hotel. Spend the afternoon enjoying the serene beauty of Lake Kivu—one of Africa’s Great Lakes. Engage in water-based activities such as boat rides, kayaking, or swimming.

For those seeking a relaxed experience, enjoy sunbathing on the sandy shores, stroll through the palm-lined avenues, or explore local markets and cafes. The sunset over Lake Kivu is breathtaking, providing perfect photo opportunities. Wrap up the day with a fresh fish dinner or lakeside barbecue, followed by a cozy evening by the water. This stop offers a refreshing pause before your upcoming mountain adventures in Volcanoes National Park.

 Scenic Transfer to Volcanoes National Park and Cultural Visit to Iby’Iwachu Village

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Lake Kivu to Volcanoes National Park. The journey is filled with jaw-dropping views of Rwanda’s green hills, terraced slopes, and rustic countryside charm. En route, you will experience how Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” lives up to its name with undulating landscapes and rich agricultural patches. Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, you will check into your safari lodge nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains.

Later in the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village for an immersive cultural encounter. This authentic experience allows you to connect with Rwanda’s heritage through traditional music, dance, folklore, and even a demonstration of local medicinal practices. You can also interact with former poachers who have become conservation ambassadors. This visit not only supports community tourism but also enriches your understanding of local traditions and conservation efforts.

 Golden Monkey Tracking and Visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before setting out to track the rare and energetic golden monkeys. Native to the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains, golden monkeys are unique primates distinguished by their golden-orange fur and lively demeanor. The trek through the forest is moderately easy and filled with chances to see other wildlife and rich plant biodiversity. Watching the monkeys leap from tree to tree and forage on the forest floor is an unforgettable experience.

After returning to your lodge for lunch, visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund headquarters. Here, you’ll learn about Fossey’s pioneering work in mountain gorilla conservation and the ongoing research, anti-poaching, and community outreach initiatives. This educational 14-day All-Inclusive Rwanda Rare Primates Wildlife Safari deepens your appreciation for primate conservation and gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the science and strategy involved in protecting endangered gorillas.

 Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Afternoon Leisure

Today is the highlight of your 14-day All-Inclusive Rwanda Rare Primates Wildlife Safari —the unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience. After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to the park headquarters for a briefing on trekking protocols and group assignment. You’ll then venture into the lush bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park, led by experienced guides and trackers. The trek may take between 2 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family, but every step is worth the reward.

Encountering a gorilla family in their natural habitat is a profoundly moving experience—watching their behavior, interactions, and gentle demeanor just meters away is a moment that stays with you forever. You are allowed up to one hour with the gorillas for observation and photography. Return to your lodge for lunch and spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, enjoying the lodge facilities or simply reflecting on the magical encounter.

Hike Mount Bisoke Volcano and Afternoon Relaxation

Fuel up with an early breakfast before embarking on an exhilarating hike up Mount Bisoke. This dormant volcano stands at 3,711 meters and features a stunning crater lake at the summit. The hike is moderately challenging, taking around 6 to 7 hours round-trip, and traverses through bamboo forests, hagenia trees, and alpine meadows. Along the trail, you may spot endemic plants, birds, and even signs of gorilla presence.

Reaching the summit rewards you with panoramic views of the Virunga Mountain range and the shimmering crater lake—ideal for breathtaking photography. This hike offers both a physical challenge and an ecological education, highlighting the biodiversity and geological wonder of the region. After descending, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest and a leisurely afternoon to unwind, soak in the views, or enjoy a therapeutic massage.

Morning Transfer to Kigali Airport for International Departure

On your final day, enjoy a hearty breakfast before checking out of your lodge. You’ll then be driven back to Kigali, a journey that takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping at local craft markets or a quick stop at the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a reflective conclusion to your journey. Your driver-guide will ensure you arrive at Kigali International Airport in time for your flight.

As your all-inclusive 14-day Rwanda Rare Primates Wildlife Safari comes to a close, you’ll leave with a camera full of breathtaking photos, a heart full of unforgettable memories, and a deepened understanding of Rwanda’s natural beauty, culture, and conservation triumphs.