Rwanda Primates Safari in Nyungwe & Volcanoes

If you get an early start today there will be time to visit the Genocide Memorial in town before setting off to Nyungwe Forest. The Genocide Memorial is a place of commemoration for the 250,000 victims buried in mass graves in the area and an important remembrance of the unfathomable brutality of the 1994 genocide. The exhibit is an intensely emotional experience but also an educational one, where you will learn about the darkest hour in Rwanda’s recent history.

On your drive out west today, you will be passing through the town of Butare, about 135km from Kigali. Here you can visit Butare National Museum displaying a range of ethnographic objects that will give you an insight into the rich traditional life and culture of the country.

At the end of the day you will reach Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of the world’s oldest and arguably Africa’s most beautiful rainforest. The forest is incredibly biodiverse with 13 known primate species in residence, from colobus monkeys, mangabeys, blue monkeys and, of course, our nearest relatives, the chimpanzees.

Nyungwe Forest is also famous among the birding community who come to spot some of the 310 bird species recorded here, 26 of which are endemic to Rwanda.

You will have plenty of time to explore the interior of the forest tomorrow.

Accommodation: Top View Hill hotel
Meal Plan: Full Board

Today you will venture deep into Nyungwe Forest National Park in search of the chimpanzees.

On a Chimpanzee Tracking experience in Nyungwe Forest you will have the opportunity to follow an experienced guide into the forest to observe these fascinating creatures at a close range. Watching them interact with each other and go about their daily routine of grooming, playing and foraging is an incredible experience.

While your chances of encountering chimpanzees are high during your tracking excursion, it is never 100% guaranteed. These are, after all, wild animals with wills and minds of their own!

From the trails below the foliage, you will now head up high into the forest canopy on one of East Africa’s first canopy walks. The network of suspension bridges will lead you on a 1.5 hour walk over a deep gorge, through beautiful and lush vegetation and difference animal habitats.

The canopy walk is an optional activity. Should you want to spend your afternoon enjoying the luxurious comforts of the lodge or doing one of the complimentary activities on offer there, just let your guide know in advance.

Accommodation: Top View Hill hotel
Meal Plan: Full Board

Prepare to have your breath stolen as you swap the emerald embrace of Nyungwe for the awe-inspiring majesty of Volcanoes National Park. Nestled amidst the Virunga mountain range, this park isn't just one of Africa's most scenic wonders, it's also the gateway to an unforgettable encounter with the iconic mountain gorillas.

As you bid farewell to the emerald haven of Nyungwe, let the Rwandan landscape unfold its diverse splendor during your scenic journey to Volcanoes National Park. Wind through rolling hills adorned with tea plantations, marvel at vibrant villages buzzing with life, and breathe in the crisp mountain air that promises an adventure unlike any other.

Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The crisp mountain air crackles with anticipation as you embark on a life-changing adventure – tracking the legendary mountain gorillas. Imagine yourself, guided by an experienced ranger, venturing into the verdant embrace of Volcanoes National Park. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled light on a tapestry of forested slopes, tangled vines, and vibrant green bamboo. Each rustle in the leaves, each snapped twig, fuels your excitement as you follow the tell-tale signs of gorillas - dung, nests, and chewed bamboo shoots.

The trek can be challenging, with muddy paths and dense vegetation testing your endurance. But as you overcome each obstacle, the anticipation builds. Then, a hushed whisper from your ranger - the gorillas have been found!

Prepare to be awestruck. A family of magnificent creatures emerges from the foliage, their intelligent eyes reflecting the wisdom of ancient forests. Observe their gentle interactions, playful young ones swinging from branches, mothers cradling their babies with tenderness. You'll be captivated by their remarkable resemblance to us, a constant reminder of our shared connection with nature.

This hour spent in their presence is a gift, a humbling experience that etches itself onto your soul. You'll leave with memories that linger long after your journey ends, carrying a newfound respect for these gentle giants and a burning desire to protect their fragile world.

Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy your last morning in the rainforest today. After an early lunch your guide will drive you back to Kigali for your departure flight.

Accommodation: None
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch