Rwanda Exploration Option A

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 the chance 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.

We spend the day exploring Akagera National Park with morning and afternoon game drives, offering excellent opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife. Between drives, we take a boat trip on Lake Ihema, where you can observe the diverse waterfowl that inhabit the lake. We return to the lodge for dinner and overnight accommodation.

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 for the remainder of the journey, which is exclusively yours. We drive through the forest, arriving late afternoon for dinner and overnight accommodation within Nyungwe National Park.

Today, we trek through Nyungwe Forest in search of chimpanzees, guided by an expert tracker. The afternoon is free for you to relax or explore independently. Alternatively, you may choose to join one of the optional activities: the canopy walk, which offers a unique perspective above the forest with views of birds and waterfalls, or a bird walk through tea plantations and dense forest, where you can spot over 100 butterfly species and occasionally 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. The drive offers spectacular views along the way. Upon arrival, you settle into your hotel for dinner and overnight. Tomorrow morning, you may choose to explore optional activities such as the canopy walk—East Africa’s only one—where you can spot a variety of birds and enjoy peaceful waterfalls, or a bird walk through tea plantations and lush forest, home to over 100 butterfly species and occasional chameleons. Overnight is at Lake Kivu.

Today is a day at leisure to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Lake Kivu. You can take time to unwind by the water, explore the lakeshore, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Dinner and overnight accommodation are at your hotel by the lake.

We depart early for Ruhengeri, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park and gorilla trekking. Upon arrival, we attend a briefing before setting out on foot to locate your assigned gorilla group. Once found, you have one hour to observe their behaviour and interactions—please note that children under 15 are not permitted to join the trek. After the encounter, we return on foot to the park gate, where your driver will transfer you back to the lodge for lunch. You will spend the evening at the lodge with dinner and overnight in Ruhengeri.

You have a leisurely morning in Ruhengeri with the option to embark on a second gorilla trek or take a Golden Monkey trek instead (permits for these activities are not included and must be purchased separately). After returning, we have lunch at the lodge, followed by a relaxed afternoon to enjoy 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 is scheduled for after midday to allow sufficient time for the transfer.