Fly-in Safari to Nyungwe Forest National Park – Rwanda
Rwanda is a premier destination for chimpanzee trekking in East Africa. South of Kigali, the country’s capital, lies Nyungwe Forest National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, especially chimpanzees, and rich birdlife. Our 4-day Fly-in Safari to Nyungwe offers an exciting adventure, allowing you to explore the park’s wildlife and take a scenic flight from Kigali to Kamembe, located just an hour’s drive from the park. Depending on your flight schedule, there may be additional activities in the park to enhance your experience.
Safari Highlights:
- Scenic domestic flight from Kigali to Kamembe
- One-hour encounter with chimpanzees
- Guided tour of Kigali City
- Visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial
Detailed Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Lodge
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, a representative will meet you for transfer to your lodge. This day is primarily for relaxation after your journey, but depending on your arrival time, you will receive a full briefing about your upcoming safari. Enjoy an overnight stay at your lodge in Kigali, preparing for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Domestic Flight to Kamembe and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kigali Airport to catch your domestic flight to Kamembe, a short but scenic journey offering beautiful views of Rwanda’s lush landscape. Upon arrival at Kamembe Airport, a safari guide will welcome you and escort you on the one-hour drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Once at the park, you’ll check in at your lodge and relax, preparing for your early start the next day.
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
The highlight of the safari begins early with a hearty breakfast before heading to the Gisakura park headquarters. There, you’ll meet your ranger guide for a briefing on the chimpanzee trekking experience, including important guidelines on how to interact with the chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The trek starts in Cyamudongo Forest, a dense and remote section of Nyungwe known for its thriving chimpanzee population. Accompanied by experienced trackers, you’ll walk through the forest in search of the chimpanzees. Once they are located, you’ll have a magical one-hour encounter, observing their behavior and social interactions in the wild. Afterward, you’ll return to the lodge to relax and reflect on the unforgettable experience.
Day 4: Drive Back to Kigali and City Tour
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic drive back to Kigali. Upon arrival, you will check in to a day room for a quick rest and lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll set off for a guided city tour of Kigali, which includes a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a poignant and deeply moving experience that honors the victims of the 1994 genocide. You will also visit the Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial, which pays tribute to the UN soldiers killed during the conflict. After the city tour, you’ll return to the lodge for refreshments before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.
