Recommended period for Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking and chimpanzee trekking are among the most popular tourist activities in Rwanda, drawing visitors year-round. These activities take place primarily in Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe National Park, respectively. When combining these two experiences into one trip, it’s recommended to allocate at least 5 days to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Rwanda’s rainforests.
5-Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda with Iconic Africa Safaris
Itinerary
Your Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda adventure with Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd begins with a pickup from Kigali International Airport. From there, you’ll embark on a journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee trekking and a canopy walk. Subsequently, you’ll head to Volcanoes National Park for the highlight of your trip: gorilla trekking.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The safari package includes accommodation, bottled drinking water, airport transfers, trekking permits for both chimpanzees and gorillas, transportation in a 4×4 vehicle, an English-speaking driver guide, and park entrance fees. However, expenses such as laundry, visas, insurance, premium drinks, personal purchases, tips, and air tickets are not covered.
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be greeted by a friendly guide from Iconic Africa Safaris. After a brief introduction and overview of the itinerary, your journey begins with a stop at the Genocide Memorial Centre in Kigali. Following this visit, you’ll proceed to Nyungwe National Park. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your accommodation and enjoy lunch before exploring the Gisakura Tea Estate. Here, you’ll learn about the coffee production process and savor freshly brewed coffee. Afterward, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk
Start your day early with breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for chimpanzee trekking. After a briefing, you’ll be assigned to a trekking group and set off into the forest. The trek can last between 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzee family. Along the way, keep an eye out for other primates such as colobus monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and baboons. After spending time with the chimpanzees, enjoy a packed lunch in the forest or return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, visit the Uwinka Center for an exhilarating canopy walk, offering breathtaking views of Nyungwe Forest from above. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
On day 3, bid farewell to Nyungwe as you check out of your lodge after breakfast. You’ll then embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch before embarking on a guided walk to the Twin Lakes. Afterward, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay, preparing for the next day’s adventure.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking and Visit to Iby’iwacu Community
After an early breakfast, set off for Volcanoes National Park for the highlight of your trip: gorilla trekking. Following a briefing at the park headquarters, you’ll be assigned to a gorilla family and commence the trek. The duration of the trek can vary, ranging from easy to challenging, depending on the family’s location. Once you locate the gorillas, you’ll spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat. Afterward, return to the headquarters for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’iwacu village for a cultural tour, where you’ll learn about the local community’s efforts in gorilla conservation. Enjoy traditional music, dance performances, and interact with the villagers before returning to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Departure to Kigali
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to Volcanoes National Park as you embark on the journey back to Kigali. Upon arrival, you’ll be dropped off at the airport or your accommodation, marking the end of your unforgettable gorilla and chimpanzee trekking adventure with Iconic Africa Safaris.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an unparalleled wildlife experience, centered around Volcanoes National Park. Home to over 400 gorillas and 15 habituated families, the park offers visitors the chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Trekking Permits
Gorilla trekking permits are essential for gaining access to the gorillas. The cost of permits varies depending on the visitor’s nationality, with discounts available for certain groups such as conference attendees and those who have pre-booked visits to other national parks in Rwanda.
Trekking Experience
The trek itself can last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on factors such as the location of the gorilla family and the pace of the trekking group. Before embarking on the trek, visitors receive a briefing outlining what to expect and the rules to follow while in the presence of the gorillas.
Additional Activities
In addition to gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park offers a range of other activities for visitors to enjoy. These include:
- Visiting the Iby’iwacu village: This community was established to provide alternative livelihoods for former poachers and offers cultural experiences such as traditional music and dance performances.
- Attending the Kwita Izina ceremony: An annual event where baby gorillas are given names, aimed at raising awareness about gorilla conservation efforts.
- Golden monkey trekking and birdwatching: Visitors can also embark on golden monkey treks and enjoy birdwatching opportunities within the park.
