7 Days Best of Rwanda: Safari, Chimpanzee Trek in Nyungwe and Lake Kivu

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  • 7 Days, 6 Nights
  • Min Age Chimpanzee : 15
  • Fitness: Difficult
  • Family friendly
  • Gear : Hiking boots

Detail

As one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, Nyungwe National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity and natural beauty. This mountainous region teems with wildlife, offering visitors a chance to observe not only chimpanzees but also 12 other primate species. Among these, you may encounter playful mountain monkeys, curious olive baboons, and the elusive golden monkeys.

Kibuye, Rwanda’s most picturesque destination, offers a tranquil retreat along Lake Kivu’s shores. Known for its magnificent islands and crystal-clear waters, Kibuye provides visitors with a peaceful atmosphere perfect for unwinding amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Activities

  • Chimpanzee Trekking
  • Kayak
  • Tea Plantation
  • Cultural & Farming Experience
  • Boat Cruise
  • Hiking
  • Fishing Experience
  • Photography

Price Includes

  • Chimpanzee Permit
  • 2 Nights Hotel Accomodation
  • Guiding and Transportation
  • Boat Tour

Price Excludes

  • Lunch and dinner
  • Hiking clothing and boots
  • Personal expenses

What to Expect

En route to Nyungwe National Park, we make a significant stop in Nyanza, the traditional seat of Rwanda’s last monarch. Here, visitors have the unique opportunity to explore the King’s Palace Museum, offering a captivating glimpse into the rich history and culture of the ancient Rwandan kingdom.

During this brief yet impactful visit, guests will gain valuable insights into traditional Rwandan architecture, customs, and royal traditions. The museum’s exhibits showcase the opulent lifestyle of the monarchy and provide a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s pre-colonial era.

A highlight of the visit is the chance to explore the King’s farm, where you’ll encounter the majestic Inyambo cows, also known as Ankole cattle. These impressive animals, with their distinctive long horns, hold great cultural significance in Rwandan history. Visitors can learn about the importance of these cattle in traditional Rwandan society and their role in royal ceremonies.

  • View the Tea Plantations
  • Hiking Napoleon Island
  • Chimpanzee tracking
  • Sunset on the cruise

Itinerary

Day 1 - Depart for Nyungwe Park and King's palace Museum

En route to Nyungwe National Park, we stop at Nyanza, the traditional seat of Rwanda’s monarchy. Visitors explore the King’s Palace Museum, gaining insights into the ancient Rwandan kingdom’s history, culture, and royal traditions. A highlight is the King’s farm, showcasing the majestic Inyambo (Ankole) cattle, which hold great cultural significance.

Upon afternoon arrival at Nyungwe National Park, guests are greeted by breathtaking views of lush jungle canopy and verdant tea plantations. This stunning landscape sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure in one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions.

Day 2 - Wake up early for the Chimpanzee tracking adventure!

Your journey begins early the next morning at 5:00 AM. You’ll be transferred to the park entrance for the highly anticipated Chimpanzee experience. This thrilling trek through the forest can last anywhere from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the primates’ location. The anticipation builds as you search for these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

As one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, Nyungwe National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity and natural beauty. This mountainous region teems with wildlife, offering visitors a chance to observe not only chimpanzees but also 12 other primate species. Among these, you may encounter playful mountain monkeys, curious olive baboons, and the elusive golden monkeys.

Following our chimpanzee trekking adventure, we proceed to the picturesque town of Kibuye, nestled along the shores of Lake Kivu.

Day 3 - Boat Cruise on Lake Kivu and Explore Napoleon Island

Kibuye or Karongi (new name) is a picturesque town nestled along the shores of Lake Kivu. Here, guests can indulge in a delightful fishing experience and a scenic boat cruise. As we navigate the tranquil waters, we explore the lake’s stunning islands, including the captivating Napoleon Island, home to a fascinating colony of bats.

Throughout our journey, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, characterized by lush green hills and vibrant banana plantations. This excursion seamlessly blends cultural immersion, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, providing a memorable and diverse experience for our guests.

Day 4 - Hiking in the Volcanoes NP or Twin Lakes Experience

Day 5 - Kigali City Tour

A Kigali city tour combines history, culture, art, and local flavors. Highlights include the Kigali Genocide Memorial and Presidential Palace Museum for historical insights into Rwanda’s past, particularly the 1994 genocide. Culturally, Nyamirambo offers a vibrant mix of traditions, markets, and milk bars, while the Kigali Cultural Village showcases crafts and performances. Art thrives at local arts centers such as Niyo, featuring contemporary works and creative spaces. The Old Town walk through Nyamirambo reveals Kigali’s charm, and a visit to a Women’s Centre, like those in Nyamirambo Women’s Center, highlights empowerment through crafts and skills training. Local food shines with dishes like ugali, grilled goat (brochettes), and fresh milk, enjoyed at markets or eateries.

Day 6 - Depart for Akagera Park and Boat Tour on Lake Ihema

  • Morning Departure (7:00 AM): Leave Kigali for Akagera National Park, approximately a 2.5-hours. Depart early to maximize your day, passing Rwanda’s scenic hills and rural landscapes.
  • Arrival at Akagera (10:00 AM): Check in at your lodging—options include Akagera Game Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, or Karenge Bush Camp—and enjoy a quick refreshment or light lunch (e.g., brochettes or ugali from the lodge menu).
  • Afternoon Exploration (1:00 PM 4:00 PM): Take a short self-guided drive or rest to acclimate to the park’s vast savannah and woodlands. Spot early wildlife like zebras, impalas, or giraffes near the entrance plains.
  • Sunset Boat Tour on Lake Ihema (4:30 PM 6:30 PM): Head to Lake Ihema, Akagera’s largest lake, for a guided boat safari. Depart around 4:30 PM to catch the golden hour and sunset (around 6:00 PM). Expect to see hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks, and abundant birdlife, including African fish eagles and kingfishers. The serene waters and glowing horizon make this a highlight.
  • Evening (7:00 PM): Return to your lodging for dinner—think grilled meats or fish with plantains—and relax under the stars, listening to the park’s nocturnal sounds.

Day 7 - Full Safari Game Drive and Return to Kigali

  • Wake up before dawn (around 5:00 AM) for a full guided game drive, starting at sunrise (approx. 6:00 AM). Depart with a packed breakfast from your lodge (e.g., fruit, mandazi, and coffee). Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems—northern hills, southern plains, and wetlands—covering key areas like the Mutumba Hills for panoramic views and lion sightings, Lake Birengero for elephants and buffalo, and the Giraffe Valley for towering Masai giraffes. With luck, spot leopards, hyenas, or rhinos (reintroduced in recent years). The drive lasts 5–6 hours, offering a comprehensive safari experience.
  • Lunch (12:30 PM): Stop at a scenic picnic spot (e.g., Hippo Beach) or back at the lodge for a quick meal—perhaps goat stew or a vegetarian bean dish.
  • Departure to Kigali (3 PM): Begin the 2.5-hour drive back to Kigali
  • Arrival in Kigali (4:00 PM): End your safari adventure, with time to unwind or explore the city further if desired.
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Safari Adventure and Lake Holiday

From$2,500
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