How to Combine Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda with a Masai Mara Adventure
Combining a chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda with a Masai Mara safari lets you see both countries’ special animals and places. You’ll see Rwanda’s lush forests in Nyungwe Forest National Park and Kenya’s iconic savannahs in the Masai Mara. This trip gives you a good mix of seeing monkeys, learning about cultures, and going on classic safaris. Remember to book your chimpanzee trek permits early because they can sell out quickly.
Suggested Itinerary
Days 1-3: Arrival in Rwanda
When you arrive in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, take some time to explore. You can visit the Genocide Memorial, check out local markets, and see cultural sites. On the second day, head to Volcanoes National Park, where Rwanda’s chimpanzees live. Stay at a lodge near the park. Spend a day trekking to see and learn about chimpanzees in their home. In the evenings, relax at your lodge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Days 4-6: Masai Mara Safari
Fly from Kigali to Nairobi, Kenya, and then take another flight to the Masai Mara. Check into your safari lodge or tented camp when you arrive. Spend the next few days exploring the Masai Mara Reserve. You can go on game drives, guided walks, and even take optional hot air balloon safaris. If you’re there during the migration season (usually July to October), you might see the famous wildebeest migration. Keep an eye out for the Big Five animals and other wildlife in the Mara.
Days 7-8: Explore Masai Mara
Keep exploring the Masai Mara by visiting different parts of the reserve for different wildlife sightings. Take a trip to a local Maasai village to learn about their way of life. Enjoy watching the sunset over the plains of the Mara with evening drinks.
Day 9: Departure
Depending on when your flight leaves, you might have time for one last morning game drive. Head back to Nairobi and catch your international flight home or continue with your travel plans.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Seeing Chimps in Nyungwe Forest
Chimpanzee trekking means visiting chimpanzees in their natural home in the forest. The chimps are used to people and are called habituated. In Rwanda, you can do chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park. The treks start in the morning and are done in small groups of up to eight people, just like gorilla trekking. Many tourists visit Nyungwe Forest National Park each year to spend time with the chimpanzees. It’s an incredible experience to watch them play, eat, and move around. Nyungwe Forest National Park is also a good place to add a chimpanzee trek to your gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park without having to travel far. Chimpanzee trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll love in Africa’s oldest forest.
Chances of Seeing Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park
If you’re planning a trip to Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda, you might be wondering about your chances of seeing chimpanzees. Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe starts from three reception centers: Uwinka, Kitabi, and Gisakura. Tourists gather early in the morning at these centers to meet park rangers before heading into the forest.
Chimpanzees build nests every night, so trackers go ahead of the trekking group to find them. They communicate with ranger guides to lead tourists to where the chimpanzees are. Once you’re with the chimps, you’re allowed to spend only one hour observing them up close. It’s an amazing opportunity to see these creatures, our closest relatives with 98.7% DNA similarity, going about their lives. Chimpanzees communicate with loud screams, hoots, and by hitting tree barks. It’s an unforgettable experience to witness their behavior in their natural habitat.
To participate in chimpanzee trekking, you’ll need a permit, which costs $300 per person per trek. This fee includes park entrance and the services of a ranger and guide. The Rwanda Development Board issues these permits, and they’re in high demand, so it’s essential to book in advance. You can contact the Rwanda Development Board directly or through Iconic Africa Safaris, a local tour operator based in Uganda. They can help you secure permits and provide other services for your trip.
Accommodation in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Whether you’re looking for luxury or more budget-friendly options, there’s something for everyone. Some recommended accommodations include:
- One & Only Nyungwe House: This luxury facility offers rates ranging from $750 to $2000 per person per night.
- Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel: Rates here start from $300 per person per night.
- Nyungwe Forest Lodge and Gisakura Guest House: These options range from $200 per person per night.
It’s recommended to stay in Nyungwe for at least two nights to fully experience the park and its surroundings. Iconic Africa Safaris can assist you in booking accommodation that suits your preferences and budget.
Why Book a Trip with Iconic Africa Safaris
Iconic Africa Safaris is a local tour operator based in Uganda. We specialize in providing life-changing experiences and sustainable tours to all East African countries. As a company registered by the Uganda Tourism Board, we have a good working relationship with the Rwanda Development Board.
Iconic Africa Safaris makes it easy to book chimpanzee permits and other services for your trip to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Our service fees are affordable and reasonable. Contact us to book your safari combining chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda with a Masai Mara safari for an unforgettable experience.
