6 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari

he 6 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari offers a remarkable journey through the �Land of a Thousand Hills.� This well-crafted itinerary blends thrilling gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, scenic drives across Rwanda�s lush landscapes, and rich cultural experiences in Kigali and local communities.

Whether you�re a primate enthusiast, a nature lover, or a cultural traveler, this Rwanda safari provides a perfect balance of adventure and education while showcasing the country�s conservation success.

Safari Highlights

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Chimpanzee tracking and canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Kigali city tour and Genocide Memorial visit
Cultural visit to Iby�Iwacu Village
Scenic drive along Lake Kivu
Guided forest and nature walks

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali � City Tour & Genocide Memorial Visit

Your 6-day adventure begins with your arrival in Kigali, Rwanda�s clean and vibrant capital. Depending on your arrival time, you�ll enjoy a guided city tour, including:

Kigali Genocide Memorial � a moving tribute to the 1994 tragedy
Kimironko Market � for local crafts, food, and cultural interaction
Inema Arts Centre or the Campaign Against Genocide Museum (optional)

Later, transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Overnight: Hotel in Kigali (e.g., Heaven Boutique Hotel, Hotel des Mille Collines)

Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park � Scenic Drive via Nyanza & Butare

After breakfast, set off for Nyungwe Forest, located in southwestern Rwanda. This journey offers some of the most scenic drives in the country, with views of terraced hills, valleys, and tea plantations.

En route, enjoy cultural and historical stops including:

Nyanza King�s Palace Museum � the former residence of Rwanda�s last kings
National Museum in Huye (Butare) � showcasing Rwandan traditions and heritage

Arrive in Nyungwe in the evening and check in at your lodge nestled near the rainforest.

Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel or One&Only Nyungwe House

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

Rise early for an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking experience in Nyungwe Forest, home to over 500 chimpanzees and 13 other primate species.

Your expert guide will lead you through dense rainforest trails to locate the chimps. Once spotted, you�ll observe their playful behavior and social interactions for up to one hour.

After lunch, embark on the famous canopy walk, a 60-meter-long suspended bridge offering panoramic views above the treetops and a chance to spot birds, monkeys, and lush vegetation from above.

Overnight: Same lodge in Nyungwe

Day 4: Drive to Volcanoes National Park � Via Lake Kivu

After breakfast, drive northwards along the scenic Lake Kivu shoreline, passing through rolling hills and charming villages. Stop in Kibuye or Gisenyi for lunch and photo opportunities.

Later, arrive at Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas and a part of the greater Virunga Conservation Area.

Check into your lodge and relax as you prepare for tomorrow�s gorilla trekking adventure.

Overnight: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, or Bisate Lodge

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park � Visit Iby�Iwacu Cultural Village

Today is the highlight of your 6 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari. After an early breakfast, transfer to the Kinigi park headquarters for briefing and allocation into gorilla trekking groups.

Trek through the bamboo-covered slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. The trek can take 2�6 hours depending on the gorilla group’s location, but the reward is priceless�watching these gentle giants in their natural habitat for one magical hour.

After your trek, return to the lodge for lunch and a rest.

In the afternoon, visit the Iby�Iwacu Cultural Village for a glimpse into Rwandan traditions, dances, and ways of life.

Overnight: Same lodge in Volcanoes

Day 6: Return to Kigali � Optional Gift Shopping & Departure

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and check out of your lodge. Begin your drive back to Kigali with scenic views of the Virunga Mountains along the way.

Depending on your flight schedule, stop at local craft markets for souvenir shopping or enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Kigali before your transfer to the Kigali International Airport.

This marks the end of your 6 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari.

What to Pack for Rwanda Gorilla Safari

Waterproof hiking boots and gaiters
Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing (green, brown, or neutral colors)
Rain jacket or poncho
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Reusable water bottle and snacks
Camera with zoom lens (no flash)
Backpack for day items
Gloves for trekking and muddy terrain

Best Time for Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda is a year-round destination, but the dry seasons (June�September and December�February) offer the best trekking conditions with less slippery trails.

The wet seasons (March�May and October�November) are greener and excellent for photography and birdwatching, though trekking may be more challenging.

Accommodation Options

Rwanda offers a wide range of high-quality safari lodges and hotels:

In Kigali:

Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat
Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel
Budget: Step Town Motel

In Nyungwe:

Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House
Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Budget: Gisakura Guest House

In Volcanoes National Park:

Luxury: Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda
Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Budget: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Why Choose the 6 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari?

Includes two primate tracking adventures: gorillas and chimpanzees
Ideal for travelers who want an in-depth Rwanda experience
Features both wildlife and culture
Great for photographers, nature lovers, and responsible tourism advocates
Customizable to add golden monkey trekking or Lake Kivu boat rides

Frequently Asked Questions

Is gorilla trekking hard?
It can be moderately strenuous, depending on the gorilla family’s location. Trekking can last from 2 to 6 hours. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.

Can I do golden monkey trekking instead of chimp tracking?
Yes, it�s possible to customize the itinerary to include golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes NP.

Is this safari family-friendly?
Yes, but gorilla and chimpanzee trekking have a minimum age requirement of 15 years.

Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. It�s highly recommended to have insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and adventure activities.

Book Your 6 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari Today

The 6 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with Africa�s most iconic primates in their natural habitats. From the misty rainforests of Nyungwe to the volcanic slopes of Virunga, every moment on this journey is designed to inspire, educate, and connect you with the soul of Rwanda.