7 Days, 6 Nights; Rwanda’s Primate Connect Tour

Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park Adventure

Begin the day with a delicious morning breakfast, followed by a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, situated in southwestern Rwanda. Explore the Park’s Exceptional Biodiversity

Discover the park’s lush rainforests, home to:

– Rwanda’s sole remaining chimpanzee population

– 85 additional mammal species

– 43 reptile species

– Nearly 300 bird species

– Over 1000 plant species

Cultural Encounters.

– Visit the King’s Palace, a traditional royal residence with a rich history

– Stop for lunch at Strafford Restaurant

– Explore the Ethnographic Museum, showcasing Rwanda’s customs and traditions before European arrival.

Driving Time: 6 hrs. Helicopter flight; 45 minutes.

Overnight:

 Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel – Mid-Luxury

https://www.mantiscollection.com/hotel/mantis-kivu-marina-bay-hotel/?y_source=1_MTUzNTg3MDktNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D

 Top View Hill Hotel – Mid Range.  

https://nyungwehotel.com/

 Ear Ken Barham Guest House – Standard 

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk Adventure

Start your day with a delicious morning breakfast, then set out on a thrilling Chimpanzee Trekking adventure. Guided by expert trackers, navigate the lush forests of Nyungwe National Park in search of Rwanda’s fascinating chimpanzees. Witness the captivating behavior of these intelligent primates as they swing through trees, forage for food, and interact with each other. After a captivating morning with the chimps, return to the lodge to unwind and relax, reliving the excitement of your unforgettable encounter.

Afternoon Canopy Walk

Experience the thrill of the Canopy Walk in Nyungwe National Park on an unforgettable afternoon adventure. Suspended 200 meters above the ground, the 200-meter-long walkway offers breathtaking views of the lush canopy and surrounding landscape. As you walk along the steel bridge, spot exotic birds, monkeys, and other wildlife, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest. Afterward, transfer to your lodge for a relaxing evening, unwinding with tales of your treetop adventure amidst the serene beauty of Rwanda’s natural surroundings.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Overnight:

 Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel – Mid-Luxury

https://www.mantiscollection.com/hotel/mantis-kivu-marina-bay-hotel/?y_source=1_MTUzNTg3MDktNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D

Top View Hill Hotel – Mid Range.  

https://nyungwehotel.com/

 Ear Ken Barham Guest House – Standard 

 Isumo Waterfall Visit and Transfer to Kibuye for sunset cruise

Hike to the Majestic Isumo Waterfall

Following a delicious early morning breakfast at the lodge, embark on an exhilarating hike to the breathtaking Isumo Waterfall in Nyungwe National Park. As you trek through the lush forest, the sounds of the waterfall grow louder, and the scenery becomes increasingly stunning. Finally, arrive at the base of the majestic waterfall, where you can marvel at its sheer power and beauty. After a refreshing morning hike, drive back to the lodge for a relaxing afternoon, where you can unwind and recharge amidst the serene surroundings.

Sunset Boat Cruise: A Breathtaking Kibuye Experience

As the day unwinds, embark on a serene Sunset Boat Cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu in Kibuye. As the sky transforms into a kaleidoscope of warm hues, glide across the lake, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the distant sounds of local fishermen. With the golden sun dipping into the horizon, the atmosphere becomes even more enchanting. After a relaxing and picturesque cruise, return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.

Driving Time: 2.30 hrs.

Overnight:

Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel – Luxury

https://cleohotel.rw/

Lake Kivu Serena – Mid Range

https://www.serenahotels.com/lake-kivu

Paradis Kivu Resort. – Standard

https://www.paradisekivu.com/

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Transfer to Volcanoes National Park & Visit Ellen DeGeneres Campus

Begin the day with a delicious morning breakfast, followed by a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, situated on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains. Volcanoes National Park is a haven for the rare and majestic mountain gorillas. This protected area is situated on the jungle-covered slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains, bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Upon arrival, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus, a pioneering initiative dedicated to uniting stakeholders in conservation efforts. This innovative campus brings together:

– Scientists

– Tourists

– Conservation partners

– Students

– Local community members around Volcanoes National Park, fostering collaboration and advancing the shared goal of protecting mountain gorillas and the planet.

Driving Time: 3 hrs.

Overnight:

 Amarembo By Touch Down – Luxury

https://www.amarembogorilla.co.za/

 Sambora Lodge – Mid Range

https://samborakinigi.com/

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge – Standard 

https://3bhotels.com/branches/mountain-gorilla-view-lodge/

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Morning Gorilla trekking, & Afternoon Visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village.

Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Volcanoes National Park

Begin the day with an early morning breakfast at the lodge, followed by an exhilarating gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park.

Gorilla Trekking Highlights:

– Discover 10 habituated gorilla families within the park

– Enjoy a pre-trek coffee and briefing

– Guided trek with trained guides and scouts

– Groups limited to 8 people, based on physical ability

– Trek duration varies, from 30 minutes to a full day

– Enjoy an unparalleled 60-minute experience, eye-to-eye with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

– After an exhilarating experience with the mountain gorillas, return to the lodge for a delicious lunch and a relaxing afternoon at your leisure. Unwind and recharge, for your evening culture village experience.

Afternoon Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Experience

Immerse yourself in traditional Rwandan culture with a visit to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, nestled near Parc National des Volcans.

Cultural Village Highlights:

– Experience rural Rwandan life, living alongside mountain gorillas

– Engage with local communities, learning about their traditions and beliefs

– Enjoy a homestay experience, becoming part of the community’s family

– Participate in cultural activities, creating lifelong memories

– Back to lodge to unwind and recharge, taking in the serene surroundings & reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the day.

Overnight:

Amarembo By Touch Down – Luxury

https://www.amarembogorilla.co.za/

Sambora Lodge – Mid Range

https://samborakinigi.com/

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge – Standard 

https://3bhotels.com/branches/mountain-gorilla-view-lodge/

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Golden Monkey Trekking & Departure

Begin the day with a delicious morning breakfast, followed by an exciting adventure:

Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Embark on a unique journey to catch a glimpse of the endangered Golden Monkey. This striking primate, with its vibrant orange fur, is a photographer’s dream amidst the lush green rainforests of the Virunga Mountains.

Highlights of the Golden Monkey Experience:

– Witness the energetic demeanor of these rare primates

– Observe sizable troupes of up to 30 individuals

– Enjoy a rare opportunity to spot the Golden Monkey, found in limited locations outside the park

After the trek, depart for Kigali International Airport, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure with en – route lunch.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, & Lunch.

Driving Time: 2.30 hrs.