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Tour Overview
The 7 Days Rwanda Primates & Wilderness Expedition offers an unforgettable journey through Rwanda’s lush landscapes, rich biodiversity, and remarkable primate encounters.
| Price From | Number of People | Min Age |
|---|---|---|
| $5,800.00 | 14 | 5+ |
This immersive safari combines gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, and a scenic wildlife experience in Akagera National Park.
From dense tropical rainforests to open savannahs, this expedition is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to connect with Rwanda’s unique environment and conservation success stories.
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Trip Highlights
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, home to the rare mountain gorillas
- Chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks in Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Classic game drives in Akagera National Park with chances to see elephants, lions, and giraffes
- Scenic drives through Rwanda’s rolling hills and rural countryside
- Cultural experiences with local communities and guided nature walks
- Comfortable accommodations throughout the trip with stunning natural views
What to Expect on the 7 Days Rwanda Primates & Wilderness Expedition
Your adventure begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital. After a short briefing, you'll head to Nyungwe Forest, a biodiverse haven for chimpanzees and other primates. Enjoy guided treks through the forest, a canopy walk above the trees, and encounters with rare bird species.
Next, continue to Volcanoes National Park for the highlight of your expedition—gorilla trekking. Hike through misty forests with expert guides to observe a gorilla family in its natural habitat, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is both humbling and awe-inspiring.
Finally, explore Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park. Here, you’ll enjoy classic game drives and boat safaris along Lake Ihema, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife.
Why Choose the This Expedition?
This well-rounded itinerary combines Rwanda’s top attractions into one seamless journey. Whether it’s the thrill of tracking mountain gorillas, walking through ancient forests, or photographing wildlife on the plains, the 7 Days Rwanda Primates & Wilderness Expedition offers a deep and diverse safari experience you’ll never forget.
Itineraries
Day 1
Arrival in Kigali – City Tour & Genocide Memorial
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed by our professional guide and transferred to your hotel in the city. After a short rest, embark on a guided Kigali city tour, where you'll visit key landmarks including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to Rwanda’s past. You’ll also explore local markets and cultural sites depending on time and interest. This introductory day offers insight into Rwanda’s rich history and modern-day transformation.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kigali
Meals: Dinner
Day 2
Transfer to Akagera National Park – Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, depart Kigali for Akagera National Park, a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour drive through Rwanda’s countryside. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge, have lunch, and prepare for an afternoon game drive. Explore the park’s savannah plains and encounter wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, elephants, and possibly lions. Akagera is the only Big Five park in Rwanda, making this drive a thrilling introduction to Rwandan wilderness.
Accommodation: Lodge inside Akagera National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Morning Game Drive & Boat Safari on Lake Ihema
Rise early for a morning game drive to catch predators and herbivores at their most active time. You'll explore new areas of the park and potentially spot leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species along the water’s edge. The contrast of land and water wildlife makes today a diverse and exciting experience.
Accommodation: Lodge inside Akagera National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Scenic Drive to Musanze
After breakfast, bid farewell to Akagera and journey northwest to Musanze, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. This drive takes you through lush green hills and beautiful terraced landscapes. Upon arrival, relax at your lodge or enjoy an optional community walk or visit to a local cultural center. Prepare for the highlight of your journey—gorilla trekking.
Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the ultimate adventure—gorilla trekking! After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing, then head into the dense forest in search of a mountain gorilla family. The trek can take 2 to 6 hours depending on the group location, but the encounter is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Spend a magical hour with the gorillas, observing their behavior in their natural habitat. Return to your lodge to relax and reflect on this rare experience.
Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Twin Lakes & Musanze Caves – Return to Kigali
This morning, explore the stunning Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera, set against a breathtaking backdrop of volcanic mountains. Then, visit the Musanze Caves—an underground marvel rich in geology and local lore. After lunch, begin your journey back to Kigali. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy your final evening in Rwanda.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kigali
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Departure – Optional Shopping or Cultural Visit
Depending on your flight time, you may enjoy optional activities such as visiting local craft markets or cultural centers for last-minute shopping. Afterward, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your incredible Rwandan adventure.
Accommodation: Not included (dayroom on request)
Meals: Breakfast
- Â Airport transfers
- Â Private 4x4 safari vehicle and English-speaking driver-guide
- Â All park entrance fees and permits (including gorilla trekking permit)
- Â Accommodation as listed in itinerary
- Â Meals as specified per day
- Â Bottled water during safari
- Â Guided Kigali city tour and genocide memorial visit
- Â Boat safari on Lake Ihema
- Â All listed activities and excursions
- Â International flights
- Â Rwanda Tourist Visa
- Â Personal travel insurance
- Â Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff
- Â Alcoholic drinks and beverages not mentioned
- Â Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Â Personal expenses such as souvenirs, phone calls, laundry, etc.
Yes. Most travelers require a visa to enter Rwanda. You can apply for a Rwanda Tourist Visa online (e-visa) or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. The East Africa Tourist Visa is also available and allows travel between Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.
The local currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). US Dollars are also widely accepted in tourism businesses. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants.
Absolutely! All our Rwanda tours can be tailored to suit your interests, time frame, and budget — from luxury to budget travel options.
Kinyarwanda is the national language. English and French are also official languages and widely spoken, especially in tourism areas.
No. The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is 15 years old.
You can observe mountain gorillas from a distance of about 7 meters (21 feet), but sometimes they may come closer. The trekking experience includes one hour with the gorillas once located.
Yes, if specified. All our gorilla trekking tours include permits in the total cost. A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs $1,500 per person per trek.
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. You can tip your guide, porter, or lodge staff based on the service provided. A general guideline is $10–20 per day for guides.
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