Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional 9-Day Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari guide. After a short briefing on your upcoming adventure, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city. This day is designed to help you unwind after your flight, providing a peaceful environment where you can relax, recharge, and prepare for the exciting days ahead. Depending on your arrival time, you may opt for a leisurely walk in the hotel’s garden or a brief stroll in the nearby neighborhood to get a feel of the Rwandan atmosphere.

Kigali, known for its cleanliness and order, is nestled among lush rolling hills and is one of Africa’s most progressive and safest cities. You’ll be staying in a comfortable lodge or hotel that offers modern amenities, delicious local and international cuisine, and serene surroundings. This overnight stay also allows for any last-minute adjustments or preparations for the 9-Day Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari, such as exchanging currency or checking gear for the upcoming treks. Dinner will be served at the hotel, followed by a restful night’s sleep in preparation for the journey to Akagera National Park the following day.

After a hearty breakfast, your 9-Day Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari guide will pick you up for the drive to Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of Rwanda. The journey, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, passes through beautiful rural landscapes, offering glimpses of traditional Rwandan life and farming communities. On arrival at the park’s southern gate, you’ll check in and proceed for an introductory game drive through Rwanda’s only savannah national park.

Akagera National Park is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, a unique blend of rolling hills, open plains, swamp-fringed lakes, and dense forests. This park is home to the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) as well as a variety of antelope species, giraffes, zebras, and hundreds of bird species. The afternoon game drive allows you to explore the southern sector of the park and begin spotting some of its wildlife in action.

You’ll be accompanied by an experienced 9-Day Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari guide who will share valuable insights into the park’s ecosystems and conservation efforts. As the sun begins to set, casting golden light across the landscape, you’ll make your way to the lodge for check-in, dinner, and an overnight stay surrounded by the wilderness sounds of Akagera.

Today is dedicated to a full exploration of Akagera National Park, starting with an early morning game drive in the northern circuit—one of the most wildlife-rich areas in the park. Early morning hours are perfect for observing predators such as lions and leopards on the move, as well as herbivores grazing in the fresh morning light. The game drive continues through diverse habitats including savannah grasslands, acacia woodlands, and wetland ecosystems.

After a picnic-style lunch at a scenic spot in the park, you will head towards Lake Ihema for an afternoon boat cruise. Lake Ihema is the second-largest lake in Rwanda and is known for its abundant aquatic life. During the boat ride, expect to encounter hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of waterbirds including the iconic African fish eagle and the elusive shoebill stork. This tranquil experience offers a unique perspective of the park and allows for some of the best photographic opportunities.

After the boat cruise, you’ll return to the lodge for an evening at leisure. Share stories around the campfire or enjoy the sunset from your private veranda. This day perfectly captures the thrill of African safaris combined with the serenity of Rwanda’s natural beauty.

Following breakfast, you will check out from Akagera and embark on a road journey back to Kigali. The return trip provides another chance to admire Rwanda’s scenic landscapes. Upon arrival in Kigali, you will check into your hotel and freshen up before setting out for an afternoon city tour.

Kigali is not only the political capital of Rwanda but also its cultural and historical heart. The city tour includes a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, a sobering yet essential site that documents the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi and honors the memory of its victims. The 9-Day Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari experience offers deep insight into Rwanda’s painful past and its remarkable recovery and unity since then.

You will also explore local markets, art galleries, and craft centers where you can purchase handmade souvenirs such as baskets, beaded jewelry, and traditional fabrics. For those interested in Rwanda’s modern transformation, a drive through the city’s bustling neighborhoods and modern infrastructure will show the country’s dynamic spirit. The day ends with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant or back at the hotel.

After an early breakfast, begin your journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwestern Rwanda. This scenic drive, lasting about 5–6 hours, winds through lush hills, tea plantations, and charming villages. As one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, Nyungwe is a biodiversity hotspot and a key attraction for primate lovers.

Upon arrival, check in at your lodge located near the forest and enjoy a warm lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the nearby Kanyaru Coffee Plantation. This excursion introduces you to Rwanda’s thriving coffee industry, known globally for its high-quality Arabica beans. During the tour, you’ll learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup, participate in harvesting and roasting demonstrations, and enjoy tasting freshly brewed coffee.

This cultural immersion offers a unique connection to local livelihoods and sustainable agriculture practices. Afterward, return to your lodge for relaxation. As you settle in for the night, the sounds of the forest create a magical ambiance, setting the stage for your chimpanzee tracking adventure the following day.

Chimpanzee Tracking Experience in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Today, embark on one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences in Africa—chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Nyungwe is a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to over 13 species of primates, but the highlight of this day is tracking the chimpanzees. Accompanied by an expert 9-Day Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari guide, you’ll venture deep into the dense forest, following the signs of these remarkable creatures. The park is one of the last strongholds for wild chimpanzees in Rwanda and offers some of the most pristine natural environments for these intelligent, social creatures.

Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe is an immersive experience. As you hike through the lush forest, your 9-Day Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari guide will share fascinating insights about the ecology of the park and the behaviors of the chimpanzees. Once you find the chimps, you’ll observe them in their natural habitat—climbing trees, foraging for food, and communicating with one another. The encounter will leave you in awe of the chimpanzees’ human-like behavior and social structure.

The chimpanzee tracking is usually a half-day activity, but the moments spent in the presence of these incredible primates are truly unforgettable. Expect an exciting, yet peaceful experience as you connect with nature and witness the beauty of the forest and its inhabitants.

Afternoon Relaxation and Scenic Views

After the exhilarating chimpanzee tracking, enjoy some well-deserved relaxation back at your lodge. Take in the breathtaking views of the Nyungwe Forest and unwind from your adventure. You can enjoy a delicious local meal, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and reflect on the morning’s experience. For those with a bit of extra energy, a leisurely walk around the lodge or a visit to one of the forest’s scenic viewpoints will further enhance the day’s journey.

Road Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

This morning, embark on a scenic road transfer to Volcanoes National Park, a prime destination for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. The journey takes you through rolling hills, verdant landscapes, and small villages that provide a glimpse into rural Rwandan life. The peaceful drive gives you time to reflect on your previous adventures and prepare for the upcoming gorilla trekking experience.

Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund: A Tribute to Conservation

Upon arriving in Volcanoes National Park, you will have the opportunity to visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, an iconic institution dedicated to the conservation of mountain gorillas. The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, founded by the late Dr. Dian Fossey, is renowned for its groundbreaking research on gorilla behavior and its vital conservation efforts.

Here, you will learn about Dr. Fossey’s tireless work, which helped save the mountain gorillas from the brink of extinction. The center offers valuable insights into the history of gorilla conservation in Rwanda, and it provides an interactive experience with educational exhibits that highlight the challenges faced by gorillas and other wildlife in the region.

You will also have the chance to hear from conservationists who continue Fossey’s work, ensuring that gorilla populations thrive. The visit is both educational and inspiring, making it an essential part of your 9-Day Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari journey through Rwanda’s wildlife heritage.

An Unforgettable Gorilla Trekking Experience

Today, embark on a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure—gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Early in the morning, you will be escorted by a guide to the park’s headquarters, where you will be assigned to one of the habituated gorilla families. The mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park are some of the last remaining wild mountain gorillas, and trekking to observe them is a powerful, humbling experience.

The trek through the dense bamboo and alpine forest can vary in difficulty, but the reward at the end is unparalleled. Standing just meters away from these gentle giants, you will witness them interact with their family members, forage for food, or simply rest. The sight of these magnificent creatures is breathtaking, as they share over 98% of our DNA.

A gorilla trek can last from a few hours to a full day, but once you come face to face with these incredible animals, time will seem to stand still. The expert guides and rangers ensure that your safety and comfort are prioritized, while respecting the gorillas’ natural behaviors and habitat. This moment will undoubtedly be one of the most profound encounters with wildlife you’ll ever have.

Afternoon Relaxation and Reflection

After the exhilarating trek, you’ll return to your lodge for a peaceful afternoon. Reflect on the experience and savor the memories of spending time with these endangered creatures. In the evening, enjoy a sumptuous meal and take in the scenic beauty of the Virunga Volcanoes surrounding the park.

Morning Golden Monkey Tracking

On the final day of your 9-Day Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari, you’ll venture out for golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park. These vibrant, rare primates are known for their playful behavior and striking golden fur. While not as famous as gorillas, golden monkeys offer a unique tracking experience. They are agile and social, often found in large groups in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park.

Golden monkey tracking is less strenuous than gorilla trekking, but it still offers an exciting adventure. You’ll follow expert trackers into the forest, where you can observe these lively creatures as they leap through the trees, foraging for food, or socializing with each other. The golden monkeys are a lesser-known treasure of Rwanda’s primate world, and spending time with them is an enriching way to conclude your 9-Day Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari.

Afternoon Transfer to Kigali and Departure

After the golden monkey experience, you will transfer back to Kigali for your departure. Depending on your flight time, you may have some leisure time to explore the capital city or visit a local market for souvenirs. Upon arrival at Kigali Airport, your Rwanda Great Primate Expedition Safari comes to a close as you catch your flight back home, with unforgettable memories of Rwanda’s incredible primate species and wildlife.