Rwanda Exploration Option B

Welcome to Rwanda. Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay. This allows you time to settle in and prepare for the adventures ahead.

This morning we travel from Kigali to Akagera National Park, arriving in time for lunch. In the afternoon, we embark on a shared game drive through the park, offering opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. After the game drive, we return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay in Akagera.

Today, we explore Akagera National Park with morning and afternoon game drives, offering excellent opportunities to spot the park’s diverse wildlife. Between drives, we take a boat ride on Lake Ihema, where you can observe the variety of waterfowl that inhabit the lake. We return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay in Akagera.

This morning, we travel to Butare, pausing in Nyanza to visit the ancient palace of Mwami, a former Rwandan king. After an included lunch at a local restaurant in Butare, we continue to Nyungwe National Park. Here, you meet your private vehicle and driver-guide to complete the journey through the forest, arriving late afternoon. Dinner and overnight are at the lodge within Nyungwe National Park.

Today, we trek through Nyungwe Forest in search of chimpanzees, guided by our expert team. The afternoon is free for you to relax at the lodge. Alternatively, you may choose to join one of the optional activities: the canopy walk, which offers a unique perspective above the forest with opportunities to spot colourful birds and enjoy nearby waterfalls; or a bird walk through scenic tea plantations and dense forest, where you can observe over 100 butterfly species and occasionally spot a chameleon. Dinner and overnight are at Nyungwe National Park.

You have a leisurely morning to relax before departing mid-morning with a picnic lunch for the journey to Gisenyi. Enjoy spectacular views along the way as you travel to your hotel on the shores of Lake Kivu. Dinner and overnight are at the hotel. In the morning, you may choose to explore optional activities such as the canopy walk—East Africa’s only one—offering views of diverse birdlife and tranquil waterfalls, or a bird walk through tea plantations and lush forest, where you can spot over 100 butterfly species and occasional chameleons. Overnight at Lake Kivu.

Today is a day at leisure to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Lake Kivu. You can spend time by the water, take a gentle stroll along the shore, or simply unwind at your hotel. Overnight accommodation is at Lake Kivu.

We depart early for Ruhengeri, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park and gorilla trekking. Upon arrival, we attend a briefing to prepare for the trek before setting out on foot to locate our assigned gorilla group. Once found, we spend an hour observing their behaviour and social interactions—note that children under 15 are not permitted to participate in the trek. After the encounter, we return on foot to the park gate, where your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to the lodge for lunch. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in Ruhengeri.

You have a relaxed morning in Ruhengeri with the option to embark on a second gorilla trek or take a Golden Monkey trek, both requiring additional permits. After returning, we have lunch at the lodge, followed by free time in the afternoon to unwind or explore at your own pace. Overnight is spent in Ruhengeri.

After breakfast, we transfer you to Kigali Airport for your onward flight. Please ensure your departure flight is scheduled for after midday to allow sufficient time for the transfer.