8 Days Rwanda’s Nyungwe, Lake Kivu & Gorillas Safari

Embark on an 8-day journey through Rwanda, a captivating destination known as ‘The Land of a Thousand Hills’ in East Africa. Rwanda’s stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and extraordinary wildlife experiences create an unforgettable journey.

Your journey kicks off in Kigali, a lively city that often serves as the gateway to remarkable chimp trekking and thrilling gorilla encounters. Following your initial night, you will journey into the core of Nyungwe National Park, a true tropical rainforest, enveloped by misty hills and alive with the melodies of birds and the unique calls of chimps. Your days will be filled with exhilarating chimp trekking, observing these lively beings in their wild surroundings, followed by enchanting evenings at the One & Only Nyungwe House, a true embodiment of secluded luxury.

Your expedition leads you to Lake Kivu, where you will relish a night in a serene resort before venturing to the famous Volcanoes National Park. This is a place where a significant portion of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas thrive amidst their breathtaking high-altitude cloud forests. Your final days will be focused on discovering the terrain and enjoying one of the globe’s most coveted wildlife encounters.

Day 1: Urban Exploration | 1 Night

Kigali, a vibrant city in Rwanda

Upon landing at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted and taken to your first hotel for check-in. Your afternoon promises to be an exciting journey as you unwind and get settled into the Kigali Serena Hotel.

The Kigali Serena Hotel embodies sophistication, nestled on a vibrant boulevard in the heart of the city. The hotel showcases breathtaking Rwandan artworks that immerse guests in the lively spirit of Rwandan culture.

Days 2-3: Chimpanzee Trekking | 2 Nights

Nyungwe, Rwanda is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.

After breakfast, you will embark on a journey to Butare, the vibrant cultural heart of Rwanda. Your journey will take you to the Butare National Museum, where you will encounter an intriguing collection of traditional garments, maps, photographs, and historical artifacts waiting to be explored. Following a delightful lunch at a charming local eatery, your journey will lead you to the captivating Nyungwe National Park.

For the next two nights, you will immerse yourself in the opulence of One & Only Nyungwe House, nestled deep within the forest on a thriving plantation. Here, away from the hustle and bustle, you will embrace the untamed spirit of the jungle as your own. This national park stands as one of the ancient rainforests in Africa, brimming with unique primates, reptiles, orchids, and vibrant exotic birds.

On your third day, you will embark on a thrilling trek through the jungle in pursuit of chimpanzee communities. You’ll spot them as they peer down from fig trees or come across them in groups leaping from one treetop to another. No trek is ever identical, and these enchanting beings astonish and bring joy to everyone who journeys along their timeless rainforest trail.

Your stay will be at One & Only Nyungwe House for 2 nights, nestled within a tea plantation on the brink of Nyungwe Forest National Park – a lush rainforest 150 miles west of Kigali, renowned for its diverse array of 13 primate species, including chimpanzees. On day 3, you’ll embark on an exhilarating journey to witness these stunning primates in their wild environment during your chimpanzee trekking experience.

Day 4: Martha’s Vineyard of Rwanda | 1 Night

Lake Kivu, Rwanda is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.

After breakfast, you will set off with a picnic lunch box and be driven along the stunning shores of Lake Kivu to Gisenyi, a picturesque lakeside town featuring a breathtaking shoreline and charming colonial-style hotels.

Lake Kivu is a remarkable freshwater lake in Rwanda, featuring a hidden inland beach adorned with leaning palms and surrounded by lush terraced hills. The remainder of the day is yours to explore before settling in for the night at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel.

The hotel exudes a vibrant atmosphere with stunning views of the lake, featuring a refreshing swimming pool, tennis courts, and a well-equipped gym. Imagine a day filled with fishing, jet-skiing, or gliding along the lake in a canoe, fully immersed in the enchanting beauty of the landscape.

Days 5-6: Extraordinary Encounters with Gorillas | 2 Nights

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.

After breakfast, the morning unfolds before you, inviting you to savor every moment before your journey to Volcanoes National Park begins. This national park offers an exhilarating backdrop where elusive mountain gorillas and vibrant golden monkeys thrive.

Your next two nights will be at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, a captivating forest retreat crafted from stone and adorned with terracotta tiled roofs. Delight in the sights of mist dancing from your private veranda and the crackling log fires that warm the evenings.

There are few experiences as enchanting as wandering through the lush slopes of the Virungas to encounter Africa’s gorillas. Some gorilla families are elusive, and tracking them can take a full day, especially when it is wet and muddy. However, the experience of witnessing these primates in their natural habitat makes it all worthwhile. You’ll embark on an hour-long journey with them before returning to base for a well-deserved lunch.

Day 7: Encountering More Gorillas

A new exhilarating day awaits, filled with the chance to explore and trek in search of gorillas and the enchanting golden monkeys that call this breathtaking landscape home. You will return to the lodge for lunch before making your way back to Kigali, the starting point of your thrilling journey through Rwanda.

Your final evening will be enjoyed at Kigali Serena Hotel, a perfect conclusion to your journey.

Day 8: Goodbye, Rwanda

After your last breakfast, you will set off on an exciting city tour of Kigali, which includes a visit to the Genocide Memorial. Following this, you will enjoy lunch before being transferred to the airport for your journey to the next destination or back home.

End of tour 

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