One Week in Rwanda – Gorillas, Chimps and Local Life
One week in Rwanda offers a real adventure packed with nature and culture. You will meet gorillas, walk with chimps, and learn about daily life in Rwanda. The trip takes you from the busy streets of Kigali to the quiet hills of Volcanoes National Park. You will visit peaceful Lake Kivu and then head into Nyungwe Forest. Along the way, you will enjoy guided treks, scenic drives, and personal encounters with wildlife. Every stop adds a new layer to your experience. This guide breaks the week into simple steps for a full and active Rwandan safari.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by a local guide from Iconic Africa Safaris who will transfer you to your hotel. You’ll settle into your hotel and have some time to relax before starting your adventure. In the afternoon, take a guided city tour of Kigali. Visit historical sites such as the Genocide Memorial, where you can learn about Rwanda’s past and the journey to recovery. Walk through the city’s bustling streets and markets, where you’ll see Rwandan culture and daily life. This day offers a gentle introduction to the country’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Preparation
After breakfast, your journey takes you north to Volcanoes National Park, located about two and a half hours from Kigali. As you drive through scenic landscapes, you’ll get a glimpse of Rwanda’s beautiful hills and farmland. Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, you’ll check into your lodge and prepare for the early morning gorilla trekking experience.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking Adventure
On this day, you will go on an exciting gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters, to attend a briefing session which starts at 7:00am where park rangers will explain the rules and safety precautions for trekking. This will ensure that you are well-prepared for your encounter with the mountain gorillas. The trekking guides will lead you through the lush forests and up the volcanic slopes. This trek can last from a few hours to a whole day, depending on where the gorillas are located. Once you find the gorillas, you will spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watching these incredible creatures interact with each other is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. After your trek, return to your lodge and relax.
Day 4: Golden Monkey Trekking and Lake Kivu Transfer
On Day 4, you will wake up early for golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Golden monkeys are endangered species, and tracking them through the forest is both exciting and rewarding. This experience offers a chance to see another rare species in the wild. After your golden monkey trek, enjoy a scenic drive to Lake Kivu, one of Rwanda’s most beautiful lakes. The drive will take around four hours, but the stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills will make it worthwhile. Upon arrival at Lake Kivu, check into your accommodation, relax, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the lake.
Day 5: Lake Kivu Exploration
Spend a peaceful day exploring the beauty of Lake Kivu. This lake is famous for its clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can take a boat cruise across the lake and visit some of the lakeside villages. A boat tour is a great way to relax and take in the picturesque landscapes. If you enjoy swimming, the calm waters offer a perfect opportunity to cool off. You may also visit one of the local fishing villages to see how the community relies on the lake for their livelihood. This day allows you to unwind and enjoy nature.
Day 6: Chimpanzee Tracking and Canopy Walk
After breakfast, you will drive to Nyungwe National Park, a lush rainforest located in the southwest of Rwanda. Nyungwe is famous for its biodiversity and is home to many species of primates, including chimpanzees. Upon arrival, you will take part in a chimpanzee tracking experience. A local guide will lead you into the forest, where you will search for a group of chimps in their natural environment. Once found, you’ll observe them as they play and interact with each other. After your chimpanzee tracking, enjoy a canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest. This walk offers a unique perspective of the forest, with incredible views from above the treetops. It’s a thrilling way to experience the rainforest and its rich biodiversity.
Day 7: Return to Kigali and Departure
On your final day, you will drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight time, you may have a chance to stop at the Caplaki Craft Village, where local artisans sell handmade souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up a unique memento of your trip to Rwanda. If you have more time, you may explore Kigali further or enjoy a final meal in one of the city’s top restaurants. When it’s time to head to the airport, your guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your flight home.
