This exceptional travel package allows you to encounter the critically endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, providing an unforgettable experience as you trek through the lush Virunga Mountains.
You will also have the chance to observe playful Chimpanzees and colorful golden monkeys in Nyungwe Forest National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, including ancient tea plantations and mesmerizing hiking trails.
Additionally, explore Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park, which boasts a remarkable array of wildlife, including the Big 5: lions, elephants, rhinoceroses, leopards, and buffalo.
This thoughtfully curated trip by People Link Safaris showcases Rwanda’s most popular destinations and enriching activities, ensuring you make lasting memories as you immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this magnificent country.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and transfer to Akagera National Park.
At your arrival, a People Link Safaris representative will pick you up from the airport or hotel if you are already in Kigali. You will have a briefing on your safari and visit the Genocide Memorial Centre before starting for Akagera National Park, the only Savannah Park in Rwanda. You can spot multitudes of animals in Akagera, including the Big 5. Proceed to the lodge, arriving in time for lunch.
Later, go for the afternoon game drive, where you will see a lot of big games, including Rhinos, waterbucks, elephants, Lions, leopards, antelopes, topi, and other small animals.
Meals and overnight accommodation at Akagera Game Lodge
Day 2: Morning and evening Game drives in Akagera Game Park.
After breakfast, embark on a thrilling game drive along the Lake Ihema sector, where you will spot animals drinking water at the water’s edge. The park comprises several lakes and wetlands, and over 450 bird species have been recorded. Return to the lodge for meals and accommodation.
Accommodation at Akagera Game Lodge.
Day 3: Transfer from Akagera to Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Following an early morning breakfast, drive to Nyungwe Forest, lunch en route, and proceed to the lodge. Nyungwe is home to chimpanzees and other rare primates, including the Black and White Colobus Monkeys. Over 300 bird species have been recorded in Nyungwe. In the afternoon, you can visit the local community and tea plantation or relax at the lodge.
Dinner and overnight at One & Only Nyungwe House
Day 4: Chimpanzees Tracking.
It takes between 2 and 3 hours. After an early morning breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing and start searching for chimpanzees. Spending time with man’s closest living relatives in their natural habitat is unique and unforgettable. You will meet a happy chimpanzee family, take photos, and watch them interact. Later, you will follow in your footsteps back to the lodge.
In the afternoon, you have the option of a canopy walk, where you can get an aerial view of the entire flora and fauna or look for the beautiful Colobus Black and White Monkeys.
Dinner and overnight at One & Only Nyungwe House
Day 5: Transfer from Nyungwe to Kigali City.
After breakfast, drive to Kigali, which has several stops at places of interest for stretching and coffee. Lunch en route, and proceed to the hotel for relaxation—accommodation at Serena Hotel or similar on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
Accommodation: Serena Hotel Kigali
Day 6: Kigali – Volcanoes National Park.
Meet your Jewel Safaris driver and start for Volcanoes National Park. For most of the journey, keep your head out for evergreen plantations and trees. Drive to the lodge, arriving in time for lunch.
In the afternoon, visit the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village, an organized community that showcases Rwanda’s traditions and Culture.
Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Day 7: Gorilla Tracking in the Volcanoes National Park.
Early morning entry into one of Africa’s oldest forests in search of the gentle and peaceful Gorillas. You will be led by knowledgeable rangers who share detailed information on the volcanoes, flora, and fauna. Look out for other primates, including monkey species. Meet the gorillas and watch them as they interact, take photos, and return to the lodge later. No doubt, an hour spent with the Gorillas is an unrivaled experience.
Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Day 8: Second Gorilla Tracking.
You will go for another gorilla tracking experience; this will be a different family. Every Gorilla tracking experience is unique. Alternatively, interact with the enchanting Golden Monkeys OR visit Dian Fossey’s research base and grave.
Meals and accommodation at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel.
Day 9: Volcanoes National Park to Lake Kivu.
Following mid-morning breakfast, drive to Lake Kivu, where you can relax and unwind after eight days of adventure. You will have a two-hour boat trip and later visit the community. Do some last-minute shopping and bargain like a local. Return to the lodge for meals and accommodation.
Meals plus accommodation at Kivu Lodge
Day 10: Transfer from Kivu to Kigali for Departure.
After breakfast, drive to Kigali city, stopping at places of interest. Proceed to the airport, arriving in time for your onward international flight with optional drop-off at your hotel in Kigali. This marks the end of your trip with Gorilla Page Safaris.