15-Day Rwanda Gorilla safaris , Chimps, Wildlife & Hiking Tour.
Introduction: Set on an extraordinary 15-day Rwanda safari, a journey that takes you through the country’s most breathtaking destinations. From gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park to chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, an exhilarating Big Five safari in Akagera National Park, and adventure-filled hikes, this tour is the ultimate way to experience the Land of a Thousand Hills. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a cultural traveler, this itinerary offers the best of Rwanda’s natural beauty, wildlife, and rich heritage.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & City Exploration
Your safari begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, explore bustling local markets, and savor traditional Rwandan cuisine. This city tour offers a perfect introduction to Rwanda’s history and culture.
Day 2: Journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and exotic bird species. En route, stop at the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza and the Ethnographic Museum in Huye for a cultural experience.
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk in Nyungwe
Venture into the dense forests for an exciting chimpanzee trekking adventure, where you’ll observe these playful primates in their natural habitat. Later, embark on the breathtaking Nyungwe Canopy Walk, a suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the rainforest.
Day 4: Nature Walk & Community Experience
Explore Nyungwe’s trails on a guided nature walk, discovering the diverse flora and fauna. In the afternoon, visit a nearby community to learn about local traditions and conservation efforts.
Day 5: Transfer to Lake Kivu
Travel to the scenic shores of Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake. Relax on the sandy beaches, take a refreshing swim, or explore the lake’s islands on a boat ride.
Day 6: Lake Kivu Adventure – Boat Cruise & Coffee Tour
Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Kivu, visit hot springs, and experience a coffee plantation tour, where you’ll learn about Rwanda’s world-renowned coffee production.
Day 7: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Head to Volcanoes National Park, the prime destination for mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Enjoy scenic views of the Virunga Mountains as you prepare for the ultimate primate encounter.
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Embark on an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience, where you’ll hike through lush jungles to meet a habituated gorilla family. Witness their behaviors up close and capture breathtaking photos of these majestic primates.
Day 9: Golden Monkey Trekking & Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Visit
Track the rare and playful golden monkeys, an endemic species found in Volcanoes National Park. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for an immersive Rwandan cultural experience.
Day 10: Mount Bisoke Hike
Hike the stunning Mount Bisoke, a volcano featuring a beautiful crater lake at its summit. This challenging yet rewarding trek offers incredible views of the Virunga range.
Day 11: Transfer to Akagera National Park
Journey to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah reserve. Upon arrival, relax and prepare for an exciting wildlife safari.
Day 12: Full-Day Game Drive in Akagera National Park
Embark on a thrilling game drive in search of the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. The park also hosts giraffes, zebras, hippos, and a variety of antelope species.
Day 13: Boat Safari on Lake Ihema & Evening Game Drive
Enjoy a peaceful boat safari on Lake Ihema, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and rare bird species. Later, take an evening game drive for a chance to witness nocturnal wildlife in action.
Day 14: Return to Kigali & Leisure Time
Drive back to Kigali, where you can spend the day shopping for souvenirs, visiting local art galleries, or simply unwinding before departure.
Day 15: Departure
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a final Kigali city tour or relax before your airport transfer, marking the end of your unforgettable 15-day Rwanda safari.
Conclusion: This 15-day Rwanda safari itinerary blends wildlife encounters, primate trekking, cultural experiences, and adventure activities, ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Rwanda’s most spectacular landscapes.
Book your Rwanda safari today and experience the beauty of the Land of a Thousand Hills!