9 Days Congo Nile Trail and Nyungwe Forest Safari

Embarking on a 9-day adventure in Rwanda along the Congo Nile Trail and through Nyungwe National Park promises a unique blend of rugged nature, rich cultural experiences, and intimate encounters with East Africa’s wildlife. This itinerary includes a mix of hiking, community immersion, and chimpanzee trekking experiences, providing a comprehensive experience of Rwanda’s landscape and heritage.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

The journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Renowned for its safety, cleanliness, and thriving art scene, Kigali offers travelers a glimpse of modern-day Rwanda. After settling into a comfortable hotel, visitors can spend the evening exploring local markets, trying traditional Rwandan cuisine, and visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial to gain insight into the country’s history and resilience.

Accommodation: Hotel des Mille Collines,

Meal plan: Dinner

Day 2: Drive to Gisenyi – Start of the Congo Nile Trail

Rise early for morning breakfast and the guide will take you to Gisenyi, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Kivu. This is the starting point of the famed Congo Nile Trail, a 227-kilometer route that stretches along the lake’s shores. In the afternoon, enjoy an easy first hike along the trail, where lush greenery meets the serene waters of the lake. Overnight accommodations are arranged in a local guesthouse, providing an introduction to the warm hospitality of Rwanda’s lakeside communities.

Days 3-6: Hiking along the Congo Nile Trail

The following days are dedicated to exploring the Congo Nile Trail, a trek that meanders through banana plantations, coffee farms, and small fishing villages. Each day offers a fresh perspective on the Rwandan countryside, with opportunities to interact with local communities and learn about traditional lifestyles. Hikers can participate in activities like coffee roasting, basket weaving, and fishing techniques that have been passed down through generations. Nights are spent in community-run guesthouses or camps, deepening cultural immersion and supporting local eco-tourism efforts.

One highlight includes a visit to Kibuye, a lively lakeside town where you will have an opportunity to relax on the beach or take a boat trip to nearby islands. This midpoint provides a chance to rest and enjoy the beauty of the trail before continuing the journey.

Day 7: Arrival in Nyungwe National Park

After the Congo Nile trail, you will pack up and transfer to Nyungwe National Park, home to one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a biodiversity hotspot. Covering over 1,000 square kilometers, Nyungwe is particularly known for its chimpanzee population. On arrival at the park, you will drive and check in to the lodge as you prepare for the chimpanzee trekking the following day.

Accommodation options: Mantis Kivu (luxury), Nyungwe Hill top (Mid-range), Ear Ken Barham guest house (Budget).

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner

Day 8: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk

An early start is essential for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe, as the chimps are most active in the morning. Guided by experienced trackers, the trek navigates through the dense forest trails until the playful sounds of chimpanzees signal their presence. Observing these primates in their natural habitat, interacting and foraging, is undoubtedly an exhilarating experience. You will spend one hour with them. Afterward, you will exit the forest and return to the lodge for lunch and rest.

In the afternoon, adventurers embark on Nyungwe’s famous canopy walkway. Suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, this walkway offers breathtaking views and a unique perspective of the rainforest. Rich in birdlife, the canopy walk allows for sightings of some of the 300 bird species that inhabit the park. Visitors can also expect to see various monkeys, including the rare Angolan colobus and other animals walking below them. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.

Accommodation options: Mantis Kivu (luxury), Nyungwe Hill top (Mid-range), Ear Ken Barham guest house (Budget).

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner

Day 9: Nature Hike and Departure

On the final day, a relaxing nature hike through the forest offers a last immersion into Nyungwe’s flora and fauna. This tranquil experience allows visitors to appreciate the quieter beauty of the forest, from its towering mahogany trees to hidden waterfalls. After the hike, check out of the lodge and return to Kigali, have lunch followed a drop-off at the airport for your flight or at your preferred drop-off point.

End of tour 

Fill in and send the safari request form, we shall respond as soon as we receive your message.
You can also reach us on Whats-app Number: +256753750983 for urgent requests.