8-Day Rwanda’s Nyungwe, Lake Kivu & Gorillas

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to the Governor’s Residence for check-in. The afternoon is yours to relax at your leisure, settling in and enjoying the hotel’s elegant ambiance. Governor’s Residence is a centrally located hotel adorned with stunning Rwandan artwork, providing you with a vibrant introduction to Rwandan culture.

After breakfast, begin your journey to Nyungwe with a visit to the Nyanza King’s Palace, a historical site showcasing Rwandan culture and the royal heritage of the Kingdom of Rwanda. Afterward, proceed to Butare for a stop at the National Museum of Rwanda, an immersive display of traditional artifacts and history. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Nyungwe National Park.

Upon arrival, embark on the exhilarating Canopy Walk, where you’ll traverse suspended bridges high above the trees for breathtaking views of the rainforest. In the evening, check in to the Nyungwe Hill Top View Hotel, perched on a scenic tea plantation.

Wake up early for an exciting Chimpanzee Trekking adventure. Nyungwe is renowned for its diverse primate species, and today, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Watch as they swing through the forest canopy or observe them on the forest floor, all while guided by expert trackers.

Return to Nyungwe Hill Top View Hotel in the afternoon for some rest and relaxation, surrounded by the tranquil views of the tea plantation.

After breakfast, check out and embark on a scenic drive to the lakeside town of Gisenyi, on the shores of Lake Kivu. This beautiful freshwater lake offers a peaceful retreat with stunning mountain and shoreline views. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, enjoying the resort’s amenities, or take a leisurely stroll by the lakeside.

After a restful morning at Lake Kivu, enjoy breakfast before departing for Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in Rwandan traditions through the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll learn about the local culture, traditional music, and dances, as well as the history of the region.

Check in to Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, your cozy home for the next two nights, offering serene views of the Virunga Mountains.

Prepare for one of the most memorable experiences of your life: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Set out early to track a family of mountain gorillas through the mist-covered slopes of the Virunga Mountains. Spend an awe-inspiring hour with these majestic creatures, observing their behaviors and interactions in their natural environment.

After the trek, return to Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel to unwind and reflect on your experience.

Begin the day with an exciting Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park. These lively and playful monkeys are a delight to observe as they jump through bamboo forests. Afterward, enjoy lunch and then head back to Kigali for your final night at The Governor’s Residence, where you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the city’s comforts.

After breakfast, embark on a Kigali City Tour, including a poignant visit to the Genocide Memorial to learn about Rwanda’s history and resilience. Following a farewell lunch, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your onward journey or return flight home.