How does Rwanda gorilla trekking differ from Uganda?

Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park is a short two-to-three-hour drive from Kigali and treks tend to be gentler, while permits cost more than Uganda's. Many travellers combine both countries; we advise on the right fit for your budget and time.

Mountain gorillas in their forest habitat in Rwanda

8 days · Rwanda · Medium

8-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Chimps Safari

An eight-day Rwanda journey that pairs chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe with gorilla trekking in the Volcanoes, alongside Lake Kivu and cultural stops. It runs from Kigali across the south and northwest of the country.

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Length: 8 days
Country: Rwanda
Pace: Medium
Experiences: Chimpanzee Tracking · Gorilla Tracking · Boat Ride

Along this route

The world this journey moves through

Representative photography of the landscapes and wildlife on this route — tap any photo to view it full screen.

The route

How this journey unfolds, 5 stops in 8 days

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Destination guides:Nyungwe Forest Lake Kivu Volcanoes National Park Kigali

Day by day

The journey, morning by morning

Arrival in Kigali and transfer to Nyungwe
Meet your guide for a welcome briefing, then drive south through tea plantations with a stop at Kamegeri's Rock.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe
Set out early with guides to track chimpanzees in the forest.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Transfer to Kibuye and Lake Kivu
Travel to Kibuye and explore Lake Kivu, including Napoleon Island and Amahoro Island, with time to swim or relax by the water.
Lake Kivu
Transfer to Ruhengeri via the Twin Lakes
A scenic drive north with a stop at the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Trek early to spend an hour with a gorilla family, followed by a Batwa dance performance.
Volcanoes National Park
Beer production and transfer to Gisenyi
Visit a farm to see traditional banana and sorghum beer production, watch a fishing village, and relax at the hot springs.
Gisenyi
Transfer to Kigali and farewell dinner
Return to Kigali for craft shopping at the Caplaki market and a farewell dinner.
Kigali
Departure from Kigali
Enjoy a relaxed morning before your transfer to the airport.
Kigali

What the price covers

Included and not included

Included

Your gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking permits — arranged and secured as soon as your booking is confirmed, because daily numbers are strictly limited; we confirm in writing whether they sit inside your package price or are quoted separately
All ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
Full-board accommodation throughout the safari
Services of an English-speaking driver-guide
All park entrance fees
Game drives, boat cruises and activities listed in the itinerary
Drinking water in the vehicle
Airport pick-up and drop-off

Not included

International flights
Visas
Travel and medical insurance
Tips and gratuities
Drinks and meals not listed in the itinerary
Items of a personal nature, such as laundry and souvenirs

Provisional — this list is being confirmed with the operator and may change before booking.

Good to know

Questions travellers ask about this trip

How does Rwanda gorilla trekking differ from Uganda?: Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park is a short two-to-three-hour drive from Kigali and treks tend to be gentler, while permits cost more than Uganda's. Many travellers combine both countries; we advise on the right fit for your budget and time.

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