7 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda and Primates

Embark on an exhilarating adventure with the 7 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda and Primates safari, a journey through Rwanda’s rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. This tour offers a unique opportunity to trek mountain gorillas and observe diverse primates in their natural habitats. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time safari-goer, this experience promises to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Discover Rwanda’s National Parks(7 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda and Primates)

Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is home to several national parks, each offering unique wildlife experiences and breathtaking scenery. This tour takes you through some of the country’s most renowned parks, including Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, and Akagera National Park. These parks are known for their rich biodiversity, including a variety of primates, birds, and other wildlife.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your adventure begins with your arrival at Kigali International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by your safari guide. After a brief introduction, you will embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park. The journey covers approximately 120 kilometers and takes about 2-3 hours by road. Along the way, you’ll pass through the beautiful Rwandan countryside, witnessing the rolling hills and local villages.

Arrival at Volcanoes National Park

Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, you’ll check in at your lodge and have the rest of the evening to relax and prepare for the gorilla trekking adventure. The lodges in the park offer comfortable accommodation, delicious meals, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

The second day of your safari is dedicated to the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

Early Morning Briefing and Trekking

Your day begins with an early breakfast at the lodge before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing by the park rangers. The briefing includes important information about the trekking procedures, safety guidelines, and what to expect during the trek. You’ll be assigned to a gorilla family group and introduced to your guides and trackers. It’s essential to wear appropriate trekking gear, including sturdy walking boots, long-sleeved clothing, and a rain jacket. Carrying a small backpack with water, snacks, and a camera is also recommended.

The Gorilla Trekking Experience

Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, you’ll embark on the trek into the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park. The duration of the trek can vary from a few hours to most of the day, depending on the location of the gorilla family. The trek can be challenging, involving hiking through thick vegetation, steep slopes, and sometimes muddy trails. However, the effort is rewarded when you finally encounter the gorillas. Observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, watching their interactions, and hearing their vocalizations is a profound and unforgettable experience.

Return to Lodge and Relaxation

After the exhilarating gorilla trekking experience, you’ll return to your lodge to relax and reflect on the day’s adventure. The evening can be spent enjoying the serene surroundings, sharing stories with fellow trekkers, or simply unwinding with a good book.

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

The third day of your safari offers another thrilling primate encounter with golden monkey trekking, followed by a transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Golden Monkey Trekking

Your day begins with an early breakfast at the lodge before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey trekking. These playful and endangered primates are found in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. The trek to find the golden monkeys is typically shorter and less strenuous than gorilla trekking, offering a delightful experience as you observe these active and curious creatures in their natural habitat.

Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After the golden monkey trekking, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park. The journey covers approximately 220 kilometers and takes about 5-6 hours by road. Along the way, you’ll pass through the beautiful Rwandan countryside, with its terraced hills and vibrant tea plantations. Upon arrival at Nyungwe Forest, you’ll check in at your lodge and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

The fourth day of your safari is dedicated to exploring the rich biodiversity of Nyungwe Forest National Park, including chimpanzee trekking and a canopy walk.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Your day begins with an early breakfast at the lodge before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee trekking. Nyungwe Forest is home to a significant population of chimpanzees, and the trek to find them takes you through lush forests and steep terrain. Observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat, watching their social interactions, and listening to their vocalizations is an awe-inspiring experience.

Canopy Walk Adventure

After the chimpanzee trekking, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a canopy walk, one of the highlights of Nyungwe Forest National Park. The canopy walkway is suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, offering stunning views of the treetops and the chance to spot various bird species and other wildlife. This unique perspective of the forest provides an exhilarating experience for nature enthusiasts.

Day 5: Transfer to Akagera National Park

On the fifth day of your safari, you’ll travel to Akagera National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Scenic Drive to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda. The journey covers approximately 300 kilometers and takes about 6-7 hours by road. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, lakes, and savannahs. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at your lodge and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.

Day 6: Game Drives in Akagera National Park

The sixth day of your safari is dedicated to exploring Akagera National Park, with morning and afternoon game drives.

Morning Game Drive

Your day begins with an early breakfast at the lodge before heading out for a morning game drive. Akagera National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and numerous antelope species. The morning game drive offers a chance to see these animals in the cool morning light and provides excellent opportunities for photography.

Lunch and Leisure Time

After the morning game drive, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation. The lodge offers various amenities, including a pool and beautiful views of the park, ensuring a pleasant and relaxing experience.

Afternoon Game Drive

In the late afternoon, you’ll embark on another game drive, exploring different areas of the park. Akagera’s diverse ecosystems, including savannahs, wetlands, and woodlands, support a wide range of wildlife and bird species. The afternoon game drive provides another opportunity to see the park’s wildlife and enjoy the stunning landscapes.

Day 7: Boat Safari on Lake Ihema and Departure

The final day of your safari includes a morning boat safari on Lake Ihema, followed by a return to Kigali and departure.

Morning Boat Safari on Lake Ihema

After breakfast, you’ll head to Lake Ihema for a boat safari. The lake is home to a variety of aquatic wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. The boat safari offers a unique perspective of the park and provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

Return to Kigali and Departure(7 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda and primates)

Following the boat safari, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch and then embark on the journey back to Kigali. The drive covers approximately 135 kilometers and takes about 2-3 hours by road. Upon arrival in Kigali, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the city’s key attractions, such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and cultural sites. Reflecting on the incredible wildlife encounters and the awe-inspiring beauty of Rwanda’s national parks, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your 7 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda and Primates safari.

The 7 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda and Primates safari offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of trekking mountain gorillas, the thrill of observing golden monkeys and chimpanzees, or the awe-inspiring beauty of Rwanda’s national parks, this safari promises a unique and unforgettable experience. Take the plunge and immerse yourself in the wonders of Rwanda – an adventure that awaits your discovery.