7-Day Volcanoes, Nyungwe & Lake Kivu Primates Safari.

Day 1: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

Your journey begins with a morning pickup in Kigali, followed by a scenic drive north toward the breathtaking Virunga volcano chain. As the rolling city hills give way to terraced countryside and vibrant rural communities, the volcanic silhouettes rise sharply on the horizon. Upon arrival in Musanze, you check into a lodge surrounded by bamboo forests, lush gardens, and sweeping mountain views. The rest of the day unfolds at leisure, with time to enjoy the cool climate and prepare for the next day’s gorilla encounter.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Daybreak brings a sense of excitement as you head to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for your trekking briefing. Rangers share insights about the gorilla families before leading you onto the forest trails. The hike meanders through bamboo zones and dense Hagenia woodlands until you reach your assigned gorilla family.

The encounter is emotional and unforgettable. You watch a powerful silverback surveying his surroundings, juveniles tumbling with wild curiosity, and mothers nurturing their infants with tenderness. The hour spent in their presence is humbling—a moment of deep connection with one of the world’s most endangered and remarkable species. After returning to your lodge, the rest of the day is spent relaxing among the volcanic landscapes.

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking or Cultural Experience

This morning offers a choice of adventure. You may return to Volcanoes National Park for a golden monkey trek—an uplifting experience where these lively, golden-furred primates leap through bamboo trees with incredible agility. Their playful nature and bright facial expressions create a joyful contrast to the solemn grace of the gorillas.

Alternatively, you may explore the cultural heritage of the region with a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village (Gorilla Guardians Centre), where traditional dance, storytelling, and community conservation efforts come to life. Later, you relax at your lodge before preparing for the journey to Nyungwe.

Day 4: Transfer from Volcanoes to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, you begin the long but breathtaking drive south toward Nyungwe Forest National Park. The route winds through Rwanda’s iconic countryside—terraced hillsides, tea plantations glowing in the sun, and emerald valleys stretching as far as the eye can see. A stop at the ethnographic or historical sites in Huye (Butare) enriches your understanding of Rwanda’s cultural past. By late afternoon, you arrive at your lodge near the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe, where cool mountain breezes and dense canopy views welcome you.

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

The day begins before sunrise as you head into the vast expanse of Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa’s oldest and most biologically rich ecosystems. As dawn breaks, the forest awakens with distant whoops and hoots—vocal signatures of the chimpanzee communities. Rangers guide you through thick foliage until you locate a troop, offering a rare glimpse into their dynamic world. Their speed, energy, and expressive behaviour create a thrilling encounter that contrasts beautifully with the quiet stillness of gorillas.

Later, you may relax at your lodge or enjoy optional nature walks that reveal Nyungwe’s wealth of birds, plants, and smaller primates.

Day 6: Canopy Walk & Transfer to Lake Kivu

After breakfast, you experience one of Nyungwe’s most unique attractions: the canopy walkway. Suspended high above the forest floor, this elevated bridge offers breathtaking views of treetops, valleys, and wildlife that glide through the canopy. The perspective is extraordinary—Nyungwe stretches endlessly in all directions, alive with birdsong and rustling leaves.

After the canopy walk, you begin the scenic drive to Lake Kivu, following winding mountain roads that reveal Rwanda’s dramatic landscapes. By late afternoon, you arrive at your lakeside lodge, where the calm blue waters and gentle breezes of Lake Kivu offer pure relaxation.

Day 7: Lakeside Relaxation & Return to Kigali

The final day unfolds peacefully as you enjoy the serene shores of Lake Kivu. You may take a gentle boat ride, explore nearby islands, or simply relax with views of fishermen paddling traditional wooden canoes across the water. The atmosphere is calm, restorative, and the perfect contrast to days of forest trekking.

Later, you begin the drive back to Kigali, passing through Rwanda’s scenic southern and western provinces. By afternoon or early evening, you arrive in the city with unforgettable memories of gorillas, golden monkeys, chimpanzees, and the lush landscapes that define Rwanda’s primate kingdom.