6-Day Rwanda Primate Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Welcome to Rwanda!

Your adventure begins today! A friendly driver-guide from Kagera Safaris will meet you at Kigali International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. You’ll have time to relax and get ready for the exciting safari ahead.

Drive time: 20 minutes

Meal plan: Dinner (depending on arrival time)

Day 2: Travel to Nyungwe Forest – Cultural Stop in Huye

After breakfast, you’ll head south to Nyungwe Forest National Park. On the way, stop in Huye to visit the Ethnographic Museum, where you’ll learn about Rwanda’s culture and history. Arrive in Nyungwe in the evening and check in to your lodge, surrounded by lush rainforest.

Drive time: 5 hours

Optional: Helicopter transfer (35–45 minutes)

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

Wake up early and head into the forest for an exciting chimpanzee trekking experience. You'll start with a briefing at 6:00 AM and then follow your guide deep into the forest trails. Along the way, spot other primates and birds.

In the afternoon, enjoy the famous canopy walk—an elevated bridge that lets you walk above the treetops with stunning views of the forest and wildlife.

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Colobus Monkey Trek & Travel to Volcanoes National Park

This morning, you’ll go on a guided walk to see the playful Colobus monkeys. After this short trek, set off on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park in the north. Enjoy views of Lake Kivu and Rwanda’s famous "thousand hills" as you travel.

Drive time: 5 hours

Optional: Helicopter transfer (35 minutes)

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking Adventure – Volcanoes National Park

Today is a highlight of your safari! After a morning briefing, head into the misty mountains to track a family of endangered mountain gorillas. The trek may take anywhere from one to several hours, depending on their location.

After spending an unforgettable hour with the gorillas, return to your lodge and later visit the Gorilla Guardians Cultural Village for a taste of traditional Rwandan life.

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Golden Monkey Trekking & Transfer to Akagera National Park

In the morning, go trekking to see the lively and colorful golden monkeys in the forest. After the trek, start your journey east toward Akagera National Park. Enjoy scenic stops along the way for photos and refreshments.

Drive time: 2.5 hours

Optional: Helicopter transfer (30 minutes)

Optional: Night game drive for nocturnal animals

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Full-Day Game Drive & Boat Safari in Akagera National Park

Begin your day with an early morning game drive in the northern part of Akagera. Look out for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, lions, and other wildlife as you drive through open savannah and wooded areas.

In the afternoon, relax on a boat safari along Lake Ihema. Spot hippos, crocodiles, and water birds, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lake.

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: End of Safari – Transfer to Kigali

Your amazing journey comes to an end today. After breakfast, you’ll drive back to Kigali for your flight home. If time allows, you can explore the city or visit local markets.

Drive time: 2.5 hours

Optional: Helicopter transfer (35 minutes)

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch