Safari Overview

Experience the Land of a Thousand Hills on this 6-day Rwanda Budget Safari, designed to showcase the country’s premier wildlife and cultural landmarks without the luxury price tag. This journey balances the adrenaline of Gorilla Trekking in the misty Volcanoes National Park with the ancient wonders of Nyungwe Forest, one of the oldest mountain rainforests in Africa.

From the vibrant streets of Kigali and the historic King’s Palace in Nyanza to the tranquil, methane-rich waters of Lake Kivu, this safari offers a comprehensive look at Rwanda’s stunning scenery, unique primate species, and resilient culture.

 

Safari Highlights

• Primate Encounters: Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe and Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
• Golden Monkey Expedition: A lively encounter with these rare, bamboo-loving primates.
• Lake Kivu Relaxation: Unwind on the shores of one of Africa’s Great Lakes.
• Cultural Heritage: Tours of the King’s Palace, botanical gardens, and Kigali’s local markets.

 

Detailed Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali Cultural Tour & Transfer to Nyungwe Forest

Your guide will pick you up from your residence in Kigali for a scenic journey south.

Travel Note: This is a 5-hour journey. To ensure a comfortable experience, we include several stop-overs: a visit to the Traditional King’s Palace in Nyanza and the National Museum in Butare. These stops provide deep insights into Rwanda’s monarchical history before you arrive at the edge of the Nyungwe rainforest.

• Accommodation: Gisakura Guest House (Standard)
• Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking & Colobus Monkey Walk

Rise early for a guided Chimpanzee walk in Nyungwe Forest. This pristine jungle is home to 13 primate species and over 300 bird species, including the stunning Rwenzori Turaco. In the afternoon, embark on a walk to locate massive troops of Angolan Colobus monkeys, which often travel in groups of up to 400 individuals.

• Accommodation: Gisakura Guest House (Standard)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 3: Nyungwe Forest to the Shores of Lake Kivu

Travel through the lush countryside to Kibuye, arguably the most beautiful resort town on Lake Kivu.

Travel Note: After the humidity of the forest, the lakeside breeze is a welcome change. Enjoy a boat excursion to explore the nearby islands or swim in the refreshing, bilharzia-free waters. Learn about the unique methane extraction pilot station that provides an inexhaustible energy source for Rwanda’s future.

• Accommodation: Bethanie Guest House (Standard)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 4: Scenic Drive to Volcanoes National Park

Drive north through the rolling hills and agricultural valleys of Gisenyi toward Ruhengeri.

Travel Note: This 6-hour journey follows the shoreline of Lake Kivu and climbs into the gorilla highlands. We include stops in local villages and scenic viewpoints to break up the drive, ensuring you arrive at the park headquarters of Kinigi feeling refreshed.

• Accommodation: Kinigi Guest House (Standard)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Parc National des Volcans

Today is the cornerstone of your Rwanda adventure. Following a briefing at the Kinigi headquarters, you will enter the forest in search of a Mountain Gorilla family. While the trek through bamboo slopes and swamps can be arduous (taking 2 to 8 hours), the one hour spent in the presence of these majestic primates is a globally bucket-listed experience.

• Accommodation: Kinigi Guest House (Standard)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking & Departure to Kigali

Conclude your primate odyssey with a morning trek to find the Golden Monkeys, known for their playful nature and striking orange coats. After lunch, enjoy a final scenic 2-hour drive back to Kigali for your transfer to the airport.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

 

Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

Category	Inclusions (What is Included)	Exclusions (What is NOT Included)
Permits	1 Gorilla Permit & 1 Chimp Permit	International Airfares
Transport	4×4 Safari Vehicle (Pop-up roof) & Fuel	Rwanda/Uganda Entry Visas
Staff	Professional English-speaking Guide	Tips and Gratuities (Guides, Rangers, Staff)
Accommodation	Full Board (Standard/Budget Guest Houses)	Porter for Gorilla Tracking
Entrance Fees	All National Park entrance fees	Personal Travel/Medical Insurance
Activities	All itinerary activities (Kigali, Kivu, Monkeys)	Expenses of a personal nature (Laundry, Drinks)
Refreshments	Drinking water throughout the safari	Meals not specified in the itinerary

 

Quick Facts

• Destination: Nyungwe Forest, Lake Kivu, and Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.
• Key Species: Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Golden Monkeys, Rwenzori Turaco.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry seasons (June–September) for easier trekking conditions.
• Budget Strategy: By utilizing well-regarded guest houses like Gisakura and Bethanie, this safari prioritizes wildlife access and authentic experiences over luxury lodge costs.
• Pro tip: Rwanda’s infrastructure allows for a seamless Primate Circuit that is shorter in distance than neighboring Uganda, making it perfect for 6-day itineraries.