15 Days Best of Rwanda Tour

12 Days of Gorilla Trekking Safari & Wildlife Experiences

August 14, 2024

18 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari

August 15, 2024

15 Days Best of Rwanda Tour

Tour Overview

The 15 Days Best of Rwanda Tour is a comprehensive exploration of Rwanda’s natural wonders, wildlife, and rich culture, designed for travelers seeking a deep and immersive experience. This itinerary features Volcanoes National Park for mountain gorilla trekking and golden monkey encounters, Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks, Akagera National Park for savannah wildlife and the Big Five, and scenic locations such as Lake Kivu for relaxation and cultural interaction.

Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, culture seekers, and adventure travelers, this tour blends primate trekking, Big Five game drives, cultural experiences, and Rwanda’s stunning landscapes, providing a complete picture of the country’s heritage and biodiversity.

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Detailed Itinerary: 15 Days Best of Rwanda Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Arrive at Kigali International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Evening briefing on the 15-day itinerary, safety protocols, and wildlife highlights. Overnight in Kigali.

Day 2: Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Morning city tour explores Kigali’s cultural and historical sites, including local markets, memorials, and art centers. Drive to Volcanoes National Park in the afternoon. Evening relaxation at your lodge in preparation for gorilla trekking. Overnight near the park.

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Early morning briefing followed by trekking into the dense forest to find a habituated gorilla family. Spend one regulated hour observing the gorillas—silverbacks, mothers, and playful juveniles. Return to the lodge for rest. Overnight in Volcanoes National Park.

Day 4: Golden Monkey Trekking

Morning golden monkey trek through bamboo forests to observe these agile and rare primates. Afternoon at leisure to explore the surrounding landscapes or engage in photography. Overnight near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 5: Cultural Visit to Musanze and Local Communities

Visit local Batwa communities and Musanze markets for cultural immersion. Learn traditional practices, handicrafts, and local storytelling. Afternoon nature walks around the park’s scenic trails. Overnight near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 6: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Drive south to Nyungwe Forest, a montane rainforest rich in primates and birds. En route, enjoy scenic stops and local villages. Evening relaxation at the lodge to prepare for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walk adventures. Overnight near Nyungwe.

Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe

Morning chimpanzee trek guided by experienced rangers. Observe the social interactions and behaviors of habituated chimpanzee groups. Afternoon canopy walk across hanging bridges above the rainforest, offering panoramic views and birdwatching opportunities. Overnight near Nyungwe.

Day 8: Birding and Primates Walks in Nyungwe

Full-day guided forest walks focused on birding, primate observation, and photography. Target species include various turacos, sunbirds, and forest monkeys. Optional night walks reveal nocturnal species such as owls and galagos. Overnight near Nyungwe.

Day 9: Transfer to Akagera National Park

Drive east to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah ecosystem and home to the Big Five. Afternoon game drive to spot lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and giraffes. Overnight at a lodge within Akagera.

Day 10: Full-Day Game Drives in Akagera

Morning and afternoon game drives maximize sightings of Big Five and other wildlife, including zebras, antelopes, hippos, and crocodiles along lakes and rivers. Optional boat cruise on Lake Ihema provides opportunities to spot waterbirds and semi-aquatic animals. Overnight in Akagera.

Day 11: Transfer to Lake Kivu

Drive to Lake Kivu for scenic relaxation, lakeside walks, and cultural interactions. Afternoon boat ride on Lake Kivu allows for birdwatching, photography, and scenic exploration. Overnight at a lakeside lodge.

Day 12: Lake Kivu Leisure and Community Visit

Morning cultural visit to lakeside communities, learning about fishing practices, local crafts, and Rwandan traditions. Afternoon leisure for relaxation, swimming, or lakeside photography. Overnight at Lake Kivu.

Day 13: Return to Kigali

Drive back to Kigali with en-route scenic and photographic stops. Evening relaxation and optional city exploration or souvenir shopping. Overnight in Kigali.

Day 14: Kigali Historical and Cultural Tour

Morning visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial and cultural centers to gain insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience. Afternoon at leisure to explore local arts, crafts, or cafes. Farewell dinner with traditional Rwandan cuisine. Overnight in Kigali.

Day 15: Departure from Kigali

Transfer to Kigali International Airport for onward departure, concluding the 15 Days Best of Rwanda Tour.

Tour Includes

Safari Park fees
All Tour activities
All Tour accommodation
A professional driver/guide
All transportation ( To & From )
All Taxes/VAT
Everyday Meals ( As specified )
Drinking water ( On all days )

Tour Excludes

International flights ( From / to home )
Additional Accommodation
Tips
Personal items(Souvenirs, etc.)
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Gov increase of taxes and/or park fees

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What Our Travelers Enjoyed About Primate Safaris

Gorillas "Silverback"

Silverback gorillas are the powerful leaders of their families, guiding movements, protecting members, and maintaining harmony within the group through strength, experience, and calm authority.

Details About The Primate

Golden Monkey "Photogenic"

Golden monkeys are famously photogenic, captivating visitors with their bright golden fur, expressive faces, and playful behavior that creates unforgettable moments in the forest.

Details About The Primate

Chimpanzees "Pant-hoot"

Pant-hoot is the iconic call of chimpanzees, echoing through the forest as a powerful form of language used to gather groups, express excitement, mark territory, and strengthen social bonds.

Details About The Primate

Volcanoes "Real Forest Africa"

Volcanoes rise from the heart of Real Forest Africa, where misty slopes, ancient trees, and rich wildlife create a living landscape shaped by fire, time, and nature’s raw beauty.

Details About The Volcanoes

Safari Tips

What To Expect On Gorilla Safari

Expect an unforgettable gorilla safari in Uganda, where dense misty forests hide majestic mountain gorillas, winding trails lead to intimate wildlife encounters, and every moment immerses you in nature, conservation, and awe-inspiring memories.

Details About A Typical Gorilla Day

Safari Tips

What To Pack For A Gorilla Safari

Pack essentials for a gorilla safari including sturdy hiking boots, lightweight long-sleeve clothing, rain gear, insect repellent, a hat, binoculars, a camera, gloves, and a small backpack to stay comfortable while trekking through misty forests.

Details About Packing For Safari

Popular Short Trips

Uganda Or Rwanda

Congo Or Gabon

Popular Long Trips

Uganda Or Rwanda

Combined Trips

Gorilla Trekking Guide

15 Days Best of Rwanda Tour

Tour Overview

Need expert guidance?

Detailed Itinerary: 15 Days Best of Rwanda Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Day 2: Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Day 4: Golden Monkey Trekking

Day 5: Cultural Visit to Musanze and Local Communities

Day 6: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe

Day 8: Birding and Primates Walks in Nyungwe

Day 9: Transfer to Akagera National Park

Day 10: Full-Day Game Drives in Akagera

Day 11: Transfer to Lake Kivu

Day 12: Lake Kivu Leisure and Community Visit

Day 13: Return to Kigali

Day 14: Kigali Historical and Cultural Tour

Day 15: Departure from Kigali

Tour Includes

Tour Excludes

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What Our Travelers Enjoyed About Primate Safaris

Gorillas "Silverback"

Golden Monkey "Photogenic"

Chimpanzees "Pant-hoot"

Volcanoes "Real Forest Africa"

Safari Tips

What To Expect On Gorilla Safari

Safari Tips

What To Pack For A Gorilla Safari

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