10 Day friendly gorilla safaris, Nyungwe and Akagera wildlife
This 10-day adventure takes you from Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee trekking and a canopy walk, to Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey tracking and the gorilla trekking experience. Challenge yourself with a Bisoke volcano hike, explore the beautiful Twin Lakes, and transition into Akagera National Park for a Big Five safari and a boat cruise on Lake Ihema. Conclude this friendly gorilla safari with cultural interactions, guided walks, island explorations, and relaxing beach moments along Lake Kivu, ensuring a perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.
Feel the pleasure of standing just meters away from a mighty silverback, watching as it gazes at you with quiet curiosity. This friendly gorilla safari invites you to trek through Rwanda’s volcanic landscapes in search of its most majestic creatures. From chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe to gorilla in Volcanoes National Park, and wildlife safaris in Akagera, this journey blends adventure with serenity. End your safari with a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Kivu, surrounded by Rwanda’s stunning beauty.
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, city tour and Transfer to Nyungwe
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk
Day 3: Isumo Waterfalls with a Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking and Cultural Tour
Day 5: Bisoke Hike and Visit to Twin Lakes
Day 6: Transfer to Akagera for evening Lake Ihema Boat Cruise
Day 7: Big Five Safari and Community visit in akagera
Day 8: Guided Walk and Transfer to Lake Kivu for beach relaxation
Day 9: Boat Safari with visit to Island
Day 10: Return to Kigali for Departure
Price Includes:
- Gorilla tracking permit
- Chimpanzee trekking permits
- Golden monkey permits
- Park fees for all locations visited
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Ground transport in custom 4x4 safari vehicle
- Bottled water during all transfers and game drives
- Full board accommodation as specified in the itinerary
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances and park entry fees
- Boat cruise on lake Ihema
Price Excludes:
- Rwandan Visa (available online or on arrival)
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry services
- Travel and medical insurance
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Tips for staff and guides
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Kigali, city tour and Transfer to Nyungwe
Begin your friendly gorilla safari with a warm welcome in Kigali, followed by a city tour exploring vibrant markets and the Genocide Memorial. After lunch, drive to Nyungwe Forest, home to diverse primates. The drive takes you through Rwanda’s lush hills set the tone for an unforgettable adventure. This friendly gorilla safari immerses you in history, culture, and nature before settling in for a restful night near Nyungwe Forest.
- Day2Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk
Venture into Nyungwe’s dense forest for friendly gorilla safari chimpanzee trekking. Observe these playful primates in their natural habitat, listening to their calls echoing through the trees. Later, experience the renowned canopy walk, offering breathtaking views of Nyungwe’s rich biodiversity. This friendly gorilla safari highlight lets you witness the park’s incredible landscapes while walking above the towering treetops. End the day with relaxation, preparing for more exhilarating wildlife encounters.
- Day3Isumo Waterfalls with a Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Start with a hike to Isumo Waterfalls, a hidden attraction within Nyungwe. The cascading waters and forest serenity make this an unforgettable moment on your friendly gorilla safari. Afterward, travel to Volcanoes National Park, the heart of Rwanda’s gorilla conservation. Arriving in the evening, continue on golden monkey trekking, a rare opportunity to observe these lively primates. This friendly gorilla safari ensures a well-rounded primate experience before settling into your mountain lodge.
- Day4Gorilla Trekking and Cultural Tour
Today is the pinnacle of your friendly gorilla safari tracking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat, observing their social behaviors and interactions. After the trek, engage in a cultural tour, discovering Rwanda’s traditions and stories from local communities. This friendly gorilla safari blends conservation with cultural appreciation, offering a deeply immersive and emotional experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.
- Day5Bisoke Hike and Visit to Twin Lakes
Challenge yourself with a hike up Mount Bisoke, renowned for its Crater Lake and spectacular vistas. This adventure adds an element of endurance to your friendly gorilla safari, rewarding you with panoramic views. In the afternoon, unwind by visiting the Twin Lakes, Burera and Ruhondo, known for their tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings. These moments of relaxation balance the intensity of trekking, making your friendly gorilla safari both amazing and rejuvenating.
- Day6Transfer to Akagera for evening Lake Ihema Boat Cruise
Leave the misty Virungas behind and drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah reserve. Arriving in the afternoon, embark on a Lake Ihema boat cruise, gliding past hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species. The serenity of the water contrasts beautifully with the earlier forest adventures, making this friendly gorilla safari an all-encompassing wildlife experience. This transition from mountainous landscapes to wetlands enhances your appreciation of Rwanda’s biodiversity
- Day7Big Five Safari and Community visit in Akagera
Visit set out for a Big Five safari, spotting lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalos during a morning drive. Akagera’s vast plains provide incredible wildlife sightings, rounding out your friendly gorilla safari experience. In the afternoon, visit local communities to learn about conservation efforts and traditional livelihoods. This friendly gorilla safari component connects you with Rwanda’s people, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable tourism and cultural heritage.
- Day8Guided Walk and Transfer to Lake Kivu for beach relaxation
Explore Akagera further with a guided nature walk, gaining insight into its unique ecosystem. Later, travel to Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake, for a relaxing beachside retreat. This tranquil phase of your friendly gorilla safari invites you to unwind by the water, enjoying beautiful views and refreshing breezes. The shift from adventure to relaxation ensures a well-balanced friendly gorilla safari, catering to both thrill-seekers and leisure travelers.
- Day9Boat Safari with visit to Island
Relax on a boat safari across Lake Kivu, visiting its fascinating islands like the napoleon island. See diverse birdlife, witness fishing communities, and enjoy panoramic lake views. This water adventure enhances your friendly gorilla safari, blending exploration with peaceful reflection. By discovering Lake Kivu’s hidden gems, your journey reaches a new dimension, demonstrating Rwanda’s diversity beyond its gorilla habitats. This friendly gorilla safari ensures every moment is filled with wonder.
- Day10Return to Kigali for Departure
Conclude your friendly gorilla safari with a scenic drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, explore craft markets or enjoy a farewell meal. This trip through Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and cultural insights defines your friendly gorilla safari an unforgettable adventure showcasing the country’s beauty. Depart with memories of gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and enriching cultural exchanges, eager for the next exploration