5-Day Rwanda Uganda Gorilla and Chimps Trekking Circuit from Nyungwe
This 5-day gorilla and chimps trekking circuit takes you through Rwanda’s Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks before crossing into Uganda’s Kibale Forest. Travelers track mountain gorillas, trek chimpanzees, walk across forest canopies, and explore cultural sites, offering a balanced mix of wildlife and local experiences. Designed for those seeking efficient and meaningful primate trekking, this itinerary provides deep insights into conservation, ensuring a rewarding adventure across two biodiverse countries.
Have you ever wondered how to combine gorilla and chimps trekking across Rwanda and Uganda efficiently? This five-day circuit takes you through Nyungwe, Volcanoes, and Kibale National Parks, offering primate tracking, cultural experiences, and rainforest hikes. You’ll start with chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe, followed by a canopy walk high above the forest floor, then move to Volcanoes National Park to meet gorillas and visit conservation sites. The trip continues into Uganda’s Kibale Forest, where expert guides lead you to chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Along the way, local villages and wetland walks provide additional perspectives, making this itinerary about more than just trekking. If you’re looking for an engaging and well-structured gorilla and chimps trekking experience, this five-day route ensures you see the best of both countries without wasting time
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
Day 2: Chimps Trekking and Canopy Walk with a Waterfall Hike
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park for Cultural Tour
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking with a Transfer to Kibale National Park and Bigodi Wetland Walk
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking and Return to Kigali for City Tour and Airport Drop-Off
Price Includes:
- Gorilla tracking permit
- Chimpanzee tracking permit
- 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
Price Excludes:
- Rwandan Visa (available online or on arrival)
- Uganda Visa (available online or on arrival)
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses and gratuitie
- 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 and Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
Start the gorilla and chimps trekking adventure with a drive from Kigali to Nyungwe National Park, known for its dense rainforest and rich primate population. The route passes tea plantations and rolling hills, offering a glimpse of Rwanda’s natural beauty. Nyungwe is home to 13 primate species, making it a perfect introduction to gorilla and chimps trekking. Arriving in the afternoon, settle in at the lodge, preparing for an early start to explore chimpanzee habitats and rainforest trails the next day
- Day2Chimps Trekking and Canopy Walk with a Waterfall Hike
Begin the day with gorilla and chimps trekking in Nyungwe Forest, searching for lively chimpanzees that vocalize and swing through the treetops. This trek can take 2-5 hours, depending on their location. Later, take a canopy walk, crossing a suspended bridge that offers sweeping views of the forest below. A guided waterfall hike rounds off the day, allowing a closer look at Nyungwe’s biodiversity. This balanced mix of activities adds depth to the gorilla and chimps trekking experience
- Day3Transfer to Volcanoes National Park for Cultural Tour
Travel to Volcanoes National Park, a central point for gorilla and chimps trekking and rich cultural heritage. Along the way, stop at villages to learn about Rwandan traditions, including drumming, dancing, and storytelling. In the afternoon, visit the Gorilla Guardian Village, where former poachers now work as conservationists, and teaching visitors about wildlife protection. These interactions deepen the gorilla and chimps trekking experience by connecting travelers with Rwanda’s communities, reinforcing the role of conservation in everyday life
- Day4Gorilla Trekking with a Transfer to Kibale National Park and Bigodi Wetland Walk
Start early with gorilla and chimps trekking in Volcanoes National Park, heading into the forest to track a gorilla family. Guides share insights on their behaviors, making the experience educational. After the trek, cross into Uganda and continue to Kibale National Park. In the evening, explore Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, famous for birdlife and primates. This wetland adds a unique perspective to gorilla and chimps trekking, showing how smaller ecosystems contribute to conservation efforts
- Day5Chimpanzee Trekking and Return to Kigali for City Tour with Airport Drop-Off
Conclude the gorilla and chimps trekking circuit with an early morning trek in Kibale Forest, where chimpanzees are known for their complex social structures. This trek provides a close look at how chimps communicate and interact. Afterward, return to Kigali, stopping for a short city tour to explore landmarks like the Genocide Memorial. This final day ensures the gorilla and chimps trekking experience is well-rounded, blending wildlife, conservation, and cultural insights before departure