6 Days Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park & Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest

Tour Overview

Experience the thrill of Rwanda on this all-encompassing 6-day Rwanda safari adventure, designed to showcase the very best of primate trekking, conservation, and immersive rainforest exploration. Journey through Rwanda’s lush tropical forests and volcanic landscapes for unforgettable encounters with chimpanzees, endangered mountain gorillas, and other rare wildlife species in their natural habitats.

This immersive East Africa safari experience includes chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda’s forest ecosystems and the world-renowned gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park, where you will observe mountain gorillas up close in one of Africa’s most protected conservation areas. Gain deeper insight into wildlife protection and scientific research with a visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a leading center dedicated to gorilla conservation, habitat preservation, and community engagement.

Blending adventure, education, and cultural discovery, this journey highlights Rwanda’s commitment to eco-tourism and sustainable travel, offering an inspiring experience for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and conservation-minded travelers.

Tour Package Includes

  • Mountain Gorilla Tracking Permit ($1500)
  • Transportation Costs
  • Meals & Accommodations
  • Bottled Drinking Water
  • Professional Driver-Guide, and Fuel

Travel Days Plan

Day 1:

Arrival in Kigali

Your Rwanda safari journey begins upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, where you are welcomed by a VIP Meet & Greet service team who will assist with fast-track immigration, visa processing, and luggage handling for a seamless arrival experience. After meeting your professional driver-guide, who will accompany you throughout your East Africa safari, you will receive a warm introduction and an overview of the exciting adventure ahead, including primate trekking and cultural experiences across Rwanda. Following your arrival formalities, transfer to The Retreat by Heaven, one of Kigali’s premier luxury boutique hotels known for its elegant design, personalized service, and commitment to sustainable hospitality. Check in to your Superior King Room and take time to unwind after your journey, enjoying the comfort and tranquility of your surroundings. Spend your evening relaxing at leisure as you prepare for the adventures ahead, including gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking experiences, and immersive encounters with Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage. This first night marks the beginning of an unforgettable luxury Rwanda safari experience.

Day 2:

From Kigali to Nyungwe National Park – Discover the Forest on a Canopy Walk

After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic journey from Kigali to Nyungwe National Park, one of Rwanda’s most spectacular rainforest destinations. This 5–6 hour drive offers breathtaking views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and lush countryside, or you may opt for a 35-minute chartered helicopter flight to Nyungwe House’s private helipad (available at an additional cost), providing unforgettable aerial views of the “Land of a Thousand Hills” (subject to passenger and luggage weight limits). En route, stop along Rwanda’s Cultural Heritage Corridor to explore the King’s Palace Museum and the Ethnographic Museum. These cultural landmarks offer a fascinating insight into Rwanda’s royal history, traditional architecture, and rich cultural heritage, deepening your understanding of the country before entering the rainforest. Nyungwe Forest National Park spans over 1,000 square kilometers and is among the oldest and most biodiverse montane rainforests in Africa. Home to chimpanzees, over 300 bird species, and approximately 75 mammal species, it is a premier destination for primate trekking, birdwatching, and nature exploration in East Africa. Upon arrival at One&Only Nyungwe House, check in and take time to relax while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding tea plantations and forested hills. In the afternoon, set out with a local ranger for an exhilarating canopy walk experience across the park’s iconic 60-meter-high suspended walkway, offering a unique perspective over the rainforest canopy and its incredible biodiversity. Return to the lodge in the evening for a refined dinner experience and overnight stay in your Nyungwe King Room, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the rainforest. This marks a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and immersive eco-tourism in one of Rwanda’s most pristine natural environments.

Day 3:

Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

Today’s adventure begins early with breakfast at dawn before heading to the park headquarters for an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking experience in Nyungwe National Park. After a detailed briefing from experienced rangers, journey through lush, rolling tea plantations before entering the dense montane rainforest, one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse ecosystems. Nyungwe Forest is home to more than 13 primate species, hundreds of bird species, countless butterflies, and even elusive forest dwellers such as chameleons and other rare wildlife. As you trek through the thick vegetation, the sounds of the forest come alive, and you are likely to hear chimpanzees before you see them an exciting prelude to the encounter ahead. The trek may last between one and four hours depending on the movement of the chimpanzee troops. Once located, spend a magical hour observing these intelligent primates as they interact, play, groom, and communicate in their natural habitat an extraordinary highlight of any Rwanda safari and primate trekking experience. After returning to One&Only Nyungwe House for lunch, enjoy a relaxed afternoon at leisure or take part in optional lodge activities, such as guided nature walks or tea plantation experiences. Later, savor a refined dinner and unwind for another peaceful night in your King Room, surrounded by the serene beauty of Nyungwe Forest. This immersive experience perfectly blends wildlife adventure, rainforest exploration, and luxury eco-tourism in one of East Africa’s most remarkable destinations.

Day 4:

Road Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus

After breakfast, depart Nyungwe National Park and begin your scenic journey north toward Volcanoes National Park, passing through Rwanda’s iconic rolling hills, tea plantations, and rural countryside landscapes. En route, stop for lunch at Cleo Hotel (at your own expense), a convenient break to relax and refresh before continuing your journey into Rwanda’s northern highlands. Continue to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a world-class conservation and research center dedicated to the protection of mountain gorillas and their habitat. Here, you will learn about ongoing gorilla conservation efforts across Africa, scientific research programs, and community-based initiatives that support both wildlife protection and local livelihoods. The facility also plays a key role in training future conservationists, making it a cornerstone of Rwanda’s eco-tourism and conservation tourism model. After your visit, proceed to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, an exclusive luxury safari lodge nestled in the eucalyptus forest at the foothills of the Virunga Mountains. Check into your Forest Lodge King Room, beautifully designed with a king-sized bed, cozy fireplace, and a private viewing deck overlooking the tranquil forest surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a refined dinner at the lodge and unwind in complete serenity. Surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the forest, this stay offers a perfect blend of luxury, nature, and anticipation for the upcoming gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park.

Day 5:

Meet the Mountain Silverback Gorillas

Following an early breakfast, proceed to Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a detailed briefing on gorilla trekking etiquette, safety guidelines, and conservation practices. Porter services will be available to assist you along the trail, ensuring a more comfortable and supported trekking experience through the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains. Depending on the location of your assigned mountain gorilla family, the trek may last anywhere from 90 minutes to several hours as you navigate dense vegetation, bamboo forests, and misty mountain terrain. The anticipation builds as you draw closer to one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters in Africa. Once you locate the gorillas, spend a full hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watch as they feed, play, groom, and interact within their family groups, offering an intimate and unforgettable glimpse into their daily lives. Your expert guide will help position you for the best viewing and photography opportunities while ensuring respectful distance and adherence to conservation rules. After the trek, return to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest for a well-deserved lunch and time to relax at leisure. In the afternoon, unwind in the tranquil surroundings of your luxury forest lodge, enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature and the refined comfort of your suite. In the evening, savor a delicious dinner at the lodge and reflect on your remarkable gorilla trekking experience. Spend another night immersed in the serenity of the forest, surrounded by the beauty of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.

Day 6:

Golden Monkey Trekking – Return to Kigali – Departure from Rwanda

On your final day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest before checking out of the lodge. Proceed to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey trekking, where experienced rangers will prepare you for your final primate tracking experience in Rwanda. Set out into the lush bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains in search of the playful golden monkeys. Known for their striking bright orange fur and energetic behavior, these rare primates are a delight to observe as they leap through the forest canopy. This golden monkey tracking experience offers a lighter yet equally rewarding finale to your Rwanda safari adventure. After your trek, enjoy lunch in Musanze before beginning your scenic drive back to Kigali International Airport, a journey of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours through Rwanda’s iconic rolling hills and countryside landscapes. Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, check in for your departing flight to Nairobi, marking the conclusion of an unforgettable East Africa safari filled with gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and immersive wildlife and cultural experiences across Rwanda.

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