5-Day Rwanda Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Golden Monkey Safari
5 Days – 4 Nights
5-Day Rwanda Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Golden Monkey Safari
Overview
If you’re dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime primate adventure in the heart of Africa, this 5-Day Rwanda Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Golden Monkey Safari offers an unforgettable journey into the wild. You’ll trek deep into misty forests to observe mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, golden monkeys in the bamboo thickets, and chimpanzees in the ancient montane forests of Nyungwe National Park—all in one expertly planned trip.
This all-inclusive safari starts and ends in Kigali, and is perfect for wildlife lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts eager to see Rwanda’s most iconic primates in their natural habitats. And if you travel between November and May, you’ll benefit from a 30% discount on the gorilla trekking permit, paying $1,050 instead of $1,500—a great value for such a rare experience.
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5 Days/ 4 Nights
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Rwanda
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Guided, Private Safari
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Airport TransfersCar hireServices of an English-speaking guideRefreshments like waterAll accommodation & MealsAll activitiesAll Taxes /VATA professional driver /guideFuelGorilla permitChimpanzee permitDrinking water
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Tips and gratuitiesAll items of personal natureInternational flightsAlcoholic drinks
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide and begin your scenic drive north to Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Rwanda’s famed rolling hills, terraced farms, and rural villages.
This journey gives you a beautiful first impression of Rwanda’s landscapes and culture. Once you arrive near the park, check into your lodge and relax in preparation for your first trek.
Overnight at:
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Budget: Muhabura Hotel
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Mid-range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
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Luxury: Virunga Lodge
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, drive to the Kinigi headquarters for a gorilla trekking briefing. You’ll be assigned a gorilla family and join a group led by expert park rangers. The trek itself can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the group’s location, and it leads through dense forest and rugged terrain.
Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend one magical hour in their presence—watching them feed, rest, and interact. It’s an emotional and life-changing experience that few ever forget.
In the afternoon, if you’re feeling energetic, you can opt for a visit to the nearby Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll learn about traditional Rwandan music, dance, and crafts.
Overnight at:
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Budget: Muhabura Hotel
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Mid-range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
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Luxury: Virunga Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking & Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After Breakfast, you’ll return to Volcanoes National Park for another unique primate experience—golden monkey trekking. These playful and brightly colored monkeys live in the bamboo forests on the lower slopes of the volcanoes. The trek typically lasts about 2–3 hours and offers fantastic photography opportunities.
After your trek, begin your scenic drive south to Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforests. Along the way, stop for photos, lunch, and cultural interactions in small towns.
Nyungwe is home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and vervet monkeys, and also boasts nearly 300 bird species, countless orchids, and a vibrant butterfly population.
Overnight at:
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Budget: Gisakura Guesthouse
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Mid-range: Top Hill View Hotel
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Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe House
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Rise early and head to the park headquarters for a briefing before your chimpanzee tracking expedition. These intelligent, energetic primates are most active in the morning, so early treks give you the best chance of a sighting.
Trekking through Nyungwe’s thick, hilly terrain is a true adventure. In addition to chimpanzees, you may spot black-and-white colobus monkeys, baboons, and a variety of forest birds along the way.
After your trek, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. If you’re up for more exploration, consider an optional guided nature walk, or even visit the famous Canopy Walkway for a thrilling view above the treetops.
Overnight at:
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Budget: Gisakura Guesthouse
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Mid-range: Top Hill View Hotel
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Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe House
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 5: Return to Kigali & Departure
After breakfast, begin your return drive to Kigali. Depending on your flight time, you may enjoy an optional Kigali city tour, with visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, or a stop for lunch at a city café.
Your guide will drop you off at Kigali International Airport, marking the end of your 5-Day Rwanda Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Golden Monkey Trekking Safari.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
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Suggested Rwanda Safari Ideas
The tours featured throughout our website are intended to give you ideas for what’s possible when you travel with us. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created individually by one of our specialists to match your tastes and budget.
