We hope your flight is scheduled for an early landing at Kigali Airport. Upon arrival, a Private Trip representative guide/driver will pick you up from the airport or hotel if already in Kigali and welcome you to Rwanda, have a briefing on your safari, and visit the Genocide Memorial Centre before departing for Akagera National Park, the only Savannah park in Rwanda. You have the opportunity to spot multitudes of animals in Akagera including the Big 5. Proceed to the lodge to check-in.

Later, go for the afternoon game drive where you will see a lot of Big games including Rhinos, waterbucks, elephants  Lions, leopards, antelopes, topi and other small animals.

After morning breakfast, embark on a thrilling game drive along Lake Ihema sector where you will spot animals drinking water at the water’s edge. The park is comprised of several lakes and wetlands and over 450 bird species have been recorded. Return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation.

Following early morning breakfast, drive to Nyungwe Forest, lunch enroute and proceed to the lodge. You will pass through rural areas with small villages, surrounded by hills, and farmlands, which give spectacular views.  The major highlights of Nyungwe NP are its chimpanzees and other rare primates including the Black and White Colobus Monkeys. The forest has approximately 500 chimpanzee individuals and two troops have been habituated for chimpanzee trekking adventures in Nyungwe National Park. For birders Over 300 bird species have been recorded in Nyungwe.

In the afternoon, you have the option to visit the local community and tea plantation or relax at the lodge. Meals and overnight accommodation at Nyungwe Tophill View Lodge

Have an early morning breakfast, then head out to the park headquarters for briefing and start searching for chimpanzees. The experience of spending time with man’s closest living relatives in their natural habitat is unique and unforgettable. Meet a happy chimpanzee family, take photos, and watch them as they interact. Later, return to the lodge for lunch and some rest.

In the afternoon, you have the option to have a canopy walk where you can have an aerial view of the entire flora and fauna or look for the beautiful Colobus Black and White Monkeys

Following morning breakfast, drive to Kigali with several stops at places of interest for stretching and coffee. The road from Nyungwe to Kigali offers breathtaking views of the Rwandan countryside, with lush green hills, tea plantations, and small villages. Lunch enroute and proceed to the hotel for relaxation.  Accommodation at Serena Hotel or similar hotel.

Have an early breakfast and then hit the road for Volcanoes National Park. Volcanoes National Park, situated in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda, is renowned for its exceptional mountain gorilla conservation efforts. The park boasts diverse flora and fauna, including golden monkeys and various bird species, amidst stunning landscapes characterized by volcanic peaks and lush greenery. Notable features include active and dormant volcanoes like Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. Apart from its natural wonders, the park offers cultural experiences and holds historical significance as the base for Dian Fossey’s pioneering work on mountain gorillas. You will arrive at the lodge in time for lunch.

In the afternoon visit Ibyiwacu cultural village  – an organized community that showcases Rwanda’s traditions and Culture.

The excitement builds as you receive briefings on gorilla behavior and the rules of engagement to ensure a respectful and safe encounter. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a captivating adventure, taking you through misty mountains and dense bamboo forests in Rwanda.

Guided by passionate experts, who share detailed information on the volcanoes and the flora and fauna, the journey builds anticipation until you encounter a family of majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Witnessing their gentle interactions and striking similarities to humans is an overwhelming and privileged experience. As you descend, the profound connection to these incredible creatures lingers, leaving you with a deep appreciation for conservation and the beauty of the gorillas’ natural environment. After finding the gorilla family, you will be allowed one hour in their presence taking photos and learning their behavior. No doubt, an hour spent with the Gorillas is an unrivaled experience.

Have an early breakfast and head to the ranger’s post for a briefing about the golden monkeys, the rules to follow during the trek, and the importance of conservation efforts.

The trek to find the golden monkeys takes place in the lush and scenic Virunga Mountains. The park guides will lead you through dense bamboo forests, majestic landscapes, and picturesque scenery. The trek can vary in difficulty and duration, depending on the location of the golden monkey groups.

Adjacent to the Volcanoes National Park is the Karisoke Research Center, founded by the renowned primatologist Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas. A visit to Dian Fossey’s grave is a poignant and educational experience:

Have breakfast and embark on a captivating two-hour Lake Kivu Boat Trip, where nature’s beauty unfolds in a mesmerizing dance. As the boat cruises along, soak in the breathtaking views of the lush shoreline, accompanied by the soothing sounds of nature. Encounter the unique flora and fauna that call Lake Kivu home. Keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of elusive waterfowl and the occasional playful ripple of fish beneath the surface creating a vivid tapestry of colors and life.

Visit the heart of a local lakeside community, where warm smiles and genuine hospitality await. Interact with the vibrant culture, explore markets, sample local treats, and connect with the locals through traditional dances an experience that will linger in your mind for a lifetime.

After breakfast drive to Kigali city with stops at places of interest. Proceed to the airport arriving in time for your onward international flight optional drop off at your hotel in Kigali. We hope to see you (or any referral) when next, you visit next, and thanks for choosing Private Trip Uganda!