Gorillas & Chimps of Rwanda

Day 1  Fly to Kigali

Day 2  Kigali
Transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you might like to add a tour of the city and its sombre but worthwhile Genocide Memorial, remembering an important chapter in Rwanda’s history.

Day 3  Kigali to Nyungwe Forest NP
Today it’s a full day’s drive southwest towards Nyungwe. Stop en route at Nyanza, the former royal capital also known as Nyabisindu, to visit a replica of the mwami’s (king’s) palace. Continue to Huye and visit the excellent Ethnographic Museum, housing one of Africa’s finest ethnographic collections, before arriving at your lodge in the late afternoon.

Day 4  Nyungwe Forest NP
This morning, start your small group trek in search of chimpanzees in the scenic surroundings of Nyungwe Forest National Park. As well as these fascinating primates, the rainforest is home to the Ruwenzori colobus, L’Hoest’s monkey and over 300 different species of birds. Return to your lodge to unwind in the afternoon.

Day 5  Nyungwe Forest NP to Gisenyi
Drive north along the eastern shore of Lake Kivu towards Gisenyi, stopping for a picnic lunch on the way. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to relax by the pool in your lakeside hotel or soak up the views on the sandy shore.

Day 6  Gisenyi to Volcanoes NP
After a free morning at your hotel, drive towards the dramatic scenery of the Virunga Mountains, arriving at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 7  Volcanoes NP
Set off early for your group trek in search of the magnificent mountain gorillas. You will be briefed on trekking etiquette before walking for up to six hours depending on where the gorillas are located. After a memorable hour in their company, return to your lodge to relax. If time allows, why not add an extra day to experience the magic of a second gorilla trek?

Days 8-9  Transfer to Kigali and fly home