Your Rwandan adventure begins as you arrive at Kigali International Airport (KGL). Our Apes of Africa representative will warmly greet you, facilitating a seamless private transfer to The Retreat, your luxurious haven in the capital. Settle into your exquisite surroundings before enjoying a gourmet dinner, preparing you for the remarkable days ahead.
After a leisurely breakfast, delve into the soul of Kigali with a comprehensive city tour. You will visit the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial Site, gaining deep insights into Rwanda’s history and extraordinary path to reconciliation. Depending on your preferences, explore vibrant local markets and diverse museums that illuminate the country’s rich heritage and contemporary life.
Enjoy breakfast before setting off towards Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s captivating savannah gem nestled along the Tanzanian border. Upon arrival, savor a delicious lunch at your lodge. In the afternoon, embark on a tranquil boat ride on Lake Ihema, Rwanda’s second-largest lake, offering intimate encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and an incredible array of birdlife. Conclude your day with a short evening game drive as you head to your lodge, witnessing the park’s early evening activity.
Rise early for a full day of exhilarating game drives across Akagera’s expansive plains. This is your prime opportunity to spot Africa’s magnificent Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—alongside a rich diversity of other wildlife. A thoughtfully prepared picnic lunch will be enjoyed amidst the wilderness. Return to your lodge as the sun sets, reflecting on a day filled with incredible sightings.
After breakfast, embark on a final game drive through Akagera, further exploring its beauty as you make your way towards the park exit. Enjoy lunch en route as you journey westward towards Volcanoes National Park, nestled in the dramatic Virunga Mountains in the northwestern part of the country. Arrive and settle into the refined comfort of Amakoro Songa Lodge, your base for iconic primate encounters.
After an early breakfast, proceed to the Park headquarters for a vital briefing. Then, embark on an unforgettable Mountain Gorilla Trekking experience into the lush rainforest. Witnessing a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat is a profound, humbling encounter that transcends words. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Rwandan heritage with a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village in Kinigi, sharing moments with locals and learning about their vibrant traditions and artifacts.
Begin your day with another captivating primate encounter: Golden Monkey Trekking in the tropical rainforests of Volcanoes National Park, observing these playful and vibrant primates. After the activity, return to your lodge for a leisurely lunch. Later, transfer to Gisenyi, situated on the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, offering a picturesque setting for relaxation.
Savor the morning with a delightful boat excursion on Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake, gliding across its calm waters and soaking in the stunning scenery. You can also relax at a scenic public beach. After lunch at your hotel, embark on a picturesque journey south to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a vast and ancient montane rainforest.
Rise early for an intimate Chimpanzee Trekking experience in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Led by expert guides, you will delve into the forest to observe these intelligent primates in their dynamic natural environment. After lunch at your hotel, immerse yourself in the local landscape with a walk through the beautiful Gisakura Tea Estate, gaining fascinating insights into Rwanda’s renowned tea production.
Today offers a precious opportunity to personalize your forest experience. You may choose to relax at your exquisite lodge, enjoying its serene amenities, or opt for an additional guided forest walk, exploring more of Nyungwe’s intricate trails and hidden wonders at your own pace.
Enjoy a relaxed morning at your lodge before beginning your journey back towards Kigali. Lunch will be provided en route. Make significant stopovers to delve deeper into Rwanda’s history and culture. Visit the National Museum of Rwanda in Butare, offering comprehensive exhibits on the country’s heritage. Continue to Nyanza to explore the Royal Palace, gaining insights into the lives and reign of Rwandan kings.
Savor a full morning at leisure at your Kigali hotel, allowing for ultimate relaxation and reflection on your incredible journey. Enjoy a final lunch at the hotel. In the afternoon, depending on your flight schedule, you may choose to visit a local market for last-minute souvenir shopping, taking a piece of Rwanda’s vibrant artistry home. Finally, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport (KGL) for your evening departure, carrying cherished memories of Rwanda’s captivating beauty and spirit.
