All Packages8-Day Gorillas, Chimps, Lake Kivu Boat Transfer & Akagera Safari
Starting from
$5,458.00
per person
Trip Overview
This outstanding 8-day Rwanda safari is the country's ultimate
primate and wildlife combination. Journey from Kigali to the ancient Nyungwe
Forest for chimpanzee trekking amidst one of Africa's most biodiverse
rainforests. Transfer across the breathtaking Lake Kivu by boat — a scenic
experience in itself — to reach Gisenyi. Continue to Volcanoes National Park
for the deeply moving encounter with mountain gorillas in their Virunga
homeland. Visit a Rwandan cultural village and the scenic Twin Lakes of Burera
and Ruhondo. The final leg delivers you to Akagera National Park for a lake
boat safari and two days of Big Five game drives, including a thrilling night
game drive. Rwanda's most comprehensive safari in eight extraordinary days.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
After breakfast in Kigali, your driver-guide collects you for the journey south to Nyungwe Forest National Park. En route, visit the historic Nyanza Royal Palace — a beautifully restored symbol of Rwanda's royal heritage — and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to Nyungwe and check into your lodge surrounded by the sounds of the ancient forest, setting the perfect tone for the primate adventures ahead.
What's Included
Included
- • Gorilla trekking permit
- • Chimpanzee trekking permit
- • All park entry fees
- • Accommodation as listed
- • Private 4x4 transport and driver-guide
- • All scheduled activities
- • All meals as indicated
- • Bottled drinking water
- • Airport transfers
Not Included
- • International flights
- • Visa fees
- • Travel insurance
- • Tips (USD $10 per person/day recommended)
- • Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, laundry)
- • Any optional activities not listed
- • Mandatory Travel Insurance – Tanzania & Zanzibar; Adults USD $44 per person, Children (3–17) $22
- • Passengers Facilitation Fee (PFF)/VI-Tax for international air travel USD $90 per person
Tour Route & Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Are both the gorilla and chimpanzee permits included?
Yes. Both the mountain gorilla trekking permit (Volcanoes National Park) and the chimpanzee trekking permit (Nyungwe Forest) are included in the package price.
What is the difference between chimp and gorilla trekking?
Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe is a dynamic, fast-paced experience as chimps travel quickly through the forest canopy. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes is more reflective — you spend an hour with a habituated gorilla family at close range, which is a deeply moving, intimate encounter.
How long is the Lake Kivu boat crossing?
The scenic boat transfer across Lake Kivu from Cyangugu to Gisenyi takes approximately 4–6 hours depending on conditions, with beautiful views throughout the crossing.
Is gorilla trekking physically demanding?
Gorilla trekking requires moderate to good fitness as hikes can take 2–6 hours depending on gorilla family location. Porters are available at the trailhead to assist with bags and provide support on steep terrain.
What age restrictions apply to gorilla trekking?
Visitors must be at least 15 years old to participate in gorilla trekking in Rwanda. All participants require a valid gorilla trekking permit.
What to Pack
Clothing & Accessories
- Lightweight khaki shirts
- Wide-brimmed sun hat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Morning jacket
- Long trousers
- Cotton socks
- Swimwear
Photography Gear
- DSLR with telephoto lens
- Extra memory cards
- Universal adapter
- Binoculars
- Cleaning kit
- Power bank
Personal Items
- SPF 30+ Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Personal first aid kit
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Personal medications
- Lip balm
Optional Items
- Travel journal
- Flashlight
- Travel pillow
- Binoculars (high power)
- Multipurpose tool
Gallery
Need Help Planning?
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