Signature Safari

5 Day of Rwanda adventures and relaxation with Gorillas and Lake Kivu

The Experience

This 5-day Rwanda safari covers primate trekking, cultural immersion, and lakeside relaxation into a balanced journey. On Day 1, arrival in Kigali leads to a scenic transfer to Volcanoes National Park, with time to rest at your lodge. Day 2 features golden monkey trekking in bamboo forests and an afternoon cultural village visit. The highlight comes on Day 3 with gorilla trekking, followed by relaxation and canoeing at Lake Kivu. Day 4 offers a choice between community walks or hiking the Congo Nile Trail, adding cultural and scenic depth. Finally, Day 5 includes a Kigali city tour with visits to the Genocide Memorial and craft markets before departure. This itinerary balances wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and leisure, creating a comprehensive Rwanda adventure in just five days

Duration5Day/4Nignts

Price00

DestinationsRwanda

Ideal ForCouples, Wildlife Fans

Overview

The Journey

Day by Day

Day01

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Volcanoes

On arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your driver-guide and transferred to Volcanoes National Park, about 2.5 hours away. The drive takes you through Rwanda’s rolling hills and small towns, giving you a first impression of the country’s landscape and culture. Once in Musanze, the nearest town to the park, you will check into your lodge where you can relax and prepare for the days ahead. Dinner is served at the lodge, and your guide will brief you on the trekking activities planned. This day is kept light to allow you to rest after your flight while positioning you close to the park headquarters for the next morning’s activities

Accommodationlodge near Volcanoes

Day02

Day 2: Golden Monkey Trekking and Cultural Experience

After breakfast, you head to Kinigi Park Headquarters for a briefing before starting your golden monkey trek. These endangered primates live in bamboo forests and are known for their playful behavior, making them fascinating to watch. The trek is shorter and less demanding than gorilla trekking, suitable for all fitness levels. After spending time with the monkeys, you return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you visit a local cultural village where you learn about traditional Rwandan practices, music, and dance. This experience connects you with the community and provides insight into daily life. Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge complete the day

AccommodationLodges near Volcanoes

Day03

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking and Evening at Lake Kivu with Canoeing

This is the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, you report to Kinigi for a briefing and then set off with guides to track one of the gorilla families. The trek can take between one to four hours depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, you spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat. After trekking, you drive to Lake Kivu, arriving in the afternoon. Here, you can relax by the lakeside or take a canoe ride to enjoy the calm waters and surrounding views. The evening is spent at a lakeside lodge where you can unwind after the trek, with dinner served overlooking the lake.

Accommodationlodge Near lake Kivu

Day04

Day 4: Community Walks or Hike Congo Nile Trail

Today offers a choice between a guided community walk or hiking part of the Congo Nile Trail. The community walk introduces you to local farmers, artisans, and schools, giving you a chance to see how tourism supports livelihoods. Alternatively, the Congo Nile Trail hike provides a mix of lake views, rolling hills, and village paths, suitable for those who enjoy outdoor activity. Both options are rewarding and provide cultural depth to your safari. Lunch is served locally or back at your lodge, and the afternoon is free for relaxation. Dinner and overnight stay at Lake Kivu ensure you end the day in comfort

AccommodationLodge Near Lake Kivu

Day05

Day 5: Kigali City Tour and Departure

After breakfast, you drive back to Kigali for a city tour before your departure. The tour includes visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which provides important historical context, and the Kigali Craft Market where you can shop for souvenirs. Depending on time, you may also visit the Presidential Museum or enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Your driver ensures you arrive at Kigali International Airport in time for your flight. This final day balances cultural learning with practical travel arrangements, giving you a complete Rwanda safari experience from gorillas to Lake Kivu before heading home.

What's Included

Gorilla permit ($1500 per person)

Golden monkey permits

Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 4

Ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle

English-speaking professional driver-guide

Accommodation

Meals as specified (full board: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Bottled drinking water in the vehicle

All relevant government taxes and fees

Not Included

International flights to/from Kigali

Rwanda visa

Travel insurance (medical and evacuation coverage mandatory)

Domestic flight from Kigali to Volcanoes (if chosen instead of road)

Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff

Alcoholic and soft drinks

Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls)

Optional activities not listed in the itinerary

Any meals not explicitly stated as included

Begin Your Adventure

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