Skip to content This unforgettable 8-day Rwanda gorilla holiday tour offers an immersive wildlife and primate experience across Rwanda’s most iconic national parks. Highlights include gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking and birdwatching in Nyungwe Forest, and wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park. Complemented by scenic drives, cultural visits, and serene relaxation at Lake Kivu, this tour showcases the best of the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional guide. Depending on your arrival time, embark on a scenic drive northwards to Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri. Enjoy panoramic views of Rwanda’s iconic rolling hills, beautifully arranged in a descending order across lush green landscapes. Arrive at your lodge in time for dinner and an overnight stay.
Lodging Options: Mount Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury), Lebambou Lodge (Mid-range), Kinigi Guest House (Budget)
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before embarking on a life-changing gorilla trekking adventure. The trek can take 2–6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, and you’ll spend a magical one hour observing a habituated family in their natural habitat. The experience is both emotional and humbling. In the evening, enjoy local cultural performances back at your lodge.
Lodging Options: Mount Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury), Lebambou Lodge (Mid-range), Kinigi Guest House (Budget)
Today, you’ll transfer to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, nestled along the Rwanda-DR Congo border. Spend the day relaxing by the lake shores, swimming, canoeing, or enjoying a boat ride that offers sightings of various bird species and aquatic wildlife. This tranquil retreat is the perfect way to unwind after the gorilla trek.
Lodging Options: Kivu Serena Hotel (Luxury), Paradise Hotel Deluxe (Mid-range), Paradise Hotel Standard (Budget)
After breakfast, drive southwards to Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to 13 species of primates and rich in biodiversity. Enjoy a scenic drive with a stopover for lunch en route. Upon arrival, relax at your lodge as you prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Lodging Options: One&Only Nyungwe House (Luxury), Nyungwe Top View Hotel (Mid-range), Nyungwe Guest House (Budget)
Start the day early with a guided chimpanzee tracking expedition deep in Nyungwe Forest. The forest is teeming with wildlife, including red-tailed monkeys and the striking black-and-white colobus monkeys. Later in the afternoon, enjoy birdwatching, Nyungwe is one of the best birding spots in Rwanda, with species like the great blue turaco and black-and-white-casqued hornbill.
Lodging Options: One&Only Nyungwe House (Luxury), Nyungwe Top View Hotel (Mid-range), Nyungwe Guest House (Budget)
After breakfast, begin your journey to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah wildlife reserve. En route, visit the Rwanda National Museum in Huye and stop at Nyanza Cultural Village, offering insights into traditional Rwandan culture and royal history. Arrive in Akagera in time for dinner and overnight.
Lodging Options: Ruzizi Tented Lodge (Luxury), Akagera Game Lodge (Mid-range/Budget)
Enjoy a morning game drive through Akagera’s scenic savannah, woodlands, and wetlands. Look out for elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, antelopes, and predators like lions and leopards. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Ihema, where you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds.
Lodging Options: Ruzizi Tented Lodge (Luxury), Akagera Game Lodge (Mid-range/Budget)
After breakfast, drive back to Kigali for a brief city tour. Visit local markets, craft shops, and cultural centers to purchase souvenirs. Depending on your flight time, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward journey.
Gorilla trekking permit (Volcanoes National Park)
Chimpanzee tracking permit (Nyungwe Forest)
All park entry fees (Volcanoes, Nyungwe & Akagera)
Boat rides on Lake Kivu & Lake Ihema
Kigali city tour and cultural visits
Guided nature walks in Nyungwe Forest
Accommodation for 7 nights (Luxury, Mid-range or Budget)
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Ground transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Bottled water during drives
Professional English-speaking driver/guide
Gorilla tracking and chimp trekking certificates
International airfare & visa fees
Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
Optional activities not included in the itinerary
Laundry and personal expenses
Tips and gratuities
Freundlich Safaris Uganda is a premier tour operator dedicated to providing exceptional safari experiences in the heart of Uganda.
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