Primate Encounters – Gorillas & Chimpanzee

6 Days / 5 Nights | Tour Code: RF0601 A-G

Primate Encounters – Gorillas & Chimpanzee is an unforgettable journey through Rwanda’s spectacular landscapes, designed around two of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences. The safari begins in Kigali before travelling north to the dramatic Virunga Mountains for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. The journey then continues through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside to the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe National Park, where guests venture into the forest in search of chimpanzees and other fascinating primates. Combining remarkable wildlife encounters, scenic drives and a choice of accommodation options, this safari offers an exceptional introduction to Rwanda’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Accommodation Notes:

Accommodation in Kigali is on bed and breakfast basis, excluding other meals, drinks and laundry.

Accommodation at Bisate Lodge, Wilderness Sabyinyo, Virunga Lodge, One & Only Nyungwe House, One & Only Gorillas Nest and The Bishop’s House is on an all-inclusive basis, including meals, local drinks such as filtered water, juice, soft drinks, local beer, house wine and non-premium spirits, but excluding premium spirits, bottled wine, champagne and laundry.

Accommodation at Gorilla Mountain View Lodge, Virunga Inn Resort & Spa and Nyungwe Top View Hotel is on a full board basis, excluding laundry and drinks.

Day 1 – Arrival

Arrive at Kigali Airport, where after completion of customs and immigration formalities you will be met by a Primate Safaris representative for a briefing on your journey and an introduction to your safari driver-guide. Thereafter, transfer to your hotel in Kigali. Overnight at your hotel as per selected option on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – Kigali to Ruhengeri

Enjoy a morning tour of Kigali City, including a visit to the Genocide Museum, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. Later, depart on a scenic drive westwards to Ruhengeri, the base for gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park. This lively town, set against a backdrop of magnificent volcanoes, offers a memorable introduction to Rwanda’s northern highlands. Overnight at your lodge as per selected option.

Day 3 – Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking

After an early breakfast, transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for registration and briefing. Park staff allocate each group to a specific gorilla family, with a maximum of eight trekkers per group. Accompanied by expert guides and trackers, set out into the forest in search of these remarkable primates. Trekking duration can vary depending on the gorillas’ movements, but once located, the experience of observing them in their natural habitat is truly unforgettable. Lunch is served back at the lodge, and in the afternoon, time and weather permitting, there is an opportunity to visit the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Overnight at your lodge as per selected option.

Day 4 – Ruhengeri to Nyungwe National Park

After breakfast, travel by road to Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s oldest and most important montane rainforests. The journey passes through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, with lunch in Kibuye en route before continuing to Nyungwe. The forest is renowned for its biodiversity, including hundreds of tree species, orchids and giant lobelias, making it especially rewarding for nature lovers. Overnight at your lodge as per selected option.

Day 5 – Nyungwe National Park – Chimpanzee Trek

Following an early breakfast, head into Nyungwe Forest in search of chimpanzees, one of the park’s most exciting highlights. These intelligent and energetic primates are closely related to humans, and watching them in their natural habitat is a fascinating experience. Nyungwe is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with many endemic and migratory species recorded in the forest. After the trek, return for lunch at the lodge. The afternoon is at leisure, or you may choose from a range of optional activities such as visiting colobus monkeys, enjoying the canopy walk, exploring the Kamiranzovu waterfall or joining another forest excursion at extra cost. Overnight at your lodge as per selected option.

Day 6 – Nyungwe to Kigali and Departure

After breakfast, depart by road back to Kigali, arriving in time for your onward flight. The drive takes approximately five hours, and passengers should report to the airport two to three hours prior to departure. End of services.