AAT 021 Rwanda Cultural & Primate Safari: Gorillas, Chimpanzees, and Scenic Exploration

After breakfast, depart for Butare (the intellectual hub of Rwanda), where you will explore the National Museum and the former Mwami’s palace in Nyanza. The palace has been meticulously reconstructed to its 19th-century state, and you’ll also learn about Rwanda’s feudal monarchy. The National Museum is considered one of the best ethnographic museums in East Africa, offering valuable insight into Rwanda’s history and culture. Overnight: Hotel in Butare Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit the Botanical Gardens and the revered hot springs at Rugarama. Later, continue your journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s largest and oldest afro-montane forests. Stop at the Uwinka Visitor Centre to observe the semi-habituated chimpanzee groups and Angolan colobus monkeys in preparation for your upcoming primate treks. Overnight: Lodge in Nyungwe Forest Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake early for an amazing chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe Forest, home to more than 25% of Africa’s primates. The forest is renowned for its large social groups of Angolan colobus monkeys, which are some of the largest groups of any primate species. You’ll also have the chance to see various other species of monkeys and explore the stunning biodiversity of the park. Overnight: Lodge in Nyungwe Forest Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drive through the lush countryside to Kibuye, one of the most picturesque resort towns on Lake Kivu. Here, you can relax by the lake or take a boat tour to explore the beautiful islands. Take in the breathtaking views, enjoy a swim, or stroll around the villages surrounding the lake. Overnight: Hotel in Kibuye Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, travel to Gisenyi, located on the shores of Lake Kivu. Enjoy the local culture, including a visit to Idjwi Island in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Experience the fishermen’s villages and witness the resilience of the local people, especially those affected by the Nyiragongo volcano eruption. You can also visit Ross Carr’s Imbabazi Orphanage, founded by the late Rosamond Halsey Carr, a vital figure in Rwanda’s post-genocide recovery. Overnight: Hotel in Gisenyi Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drive to Kinigi, situated at the base of the Volcanoes National Park, and settle into your accommodation. Visit Ross Carr’s Imbabazi Orphanage to learn about the work it does for the orphans of the 1994 genocide. The orphanage’s mission and history are deeply tied to Rwanda’s resilience. Overnight: Lodge in Ruhengeri Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Prepare for the highlight of your adventure: gorilla trekking in Parc des Volcans. After a briefing from the park ranger, trek the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas. Spending time with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat is a truly life-changing experience. After the trek, enjoy a relaxing lunch and, if time permits, visit the stunning Lake Bulera and Lake Ruhondo. Overnight: Lodge in Ruhengeri Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

For a more adventurous day, you can opt for a hike to the top of Mount Bisoke (3,711 meters) and its scenic crater lake. Alternatively, embark on a trek to observe the Golden Monkeys, an endangered species that calls the Virungas home. You can also visit the grave of Dian Fossey and the former Karisoke Research Center. Overnight: Lodge in Ruhengeri Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, return to Kigali for a city tour. You’ll visit the Genocide Memorial Centre at Gisozi to gain deeper insights into Rwanda’s history, as well as local markets and craft shops. In the evening, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch