Rwanda·September 20 - 26 2024

Rwanda's Treasures: Gorillas, Rainforests & Culture

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Rwanda

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Overview

What makes Rwanda Special? Referred to as the Land of a Thousand Hills, Rwanda is best known for its Mountain gorillas, the most endangered of all the gorilla species, which live on the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains in the country's Volcanoes National Park. The Virungas extend through Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo as well, but fortunately for Rwanda, half of the remaining populations of Mountain gorillas live within its borders. Volcanoes National Park is easily accessible from Kigali, the capital, in just three hours by car. These factors, along with Rwanda's competent and organized handling of wildlife conservation and tourism overall, makes gorilla trekking in Rwanda a popular choice. Rwanda has much to offer besides Mountain gorillas. Nyungwe Forest is the largest untouched montane forest (an ecosystem found in mountains) left in Africa. With winding trails and waterfalls it makes for a wonderful place to hike, bird watch, and encounter other primates such as Colobus monkeys and chimpanzees. The source of the Nile is found in Nyungwe Forest too. Part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, Rwanda’s largest lake and sixth largest lake in Africa, Lake Kivu’s emerald-green waters are surrounded by mountains which are sculptured into terraced plots. The scenery is magnificent. This itinerary follows the Lake Kivu scenic route between Nyungwe Forest and Volcanoes National Parks. So summon your inner Dian Fossey (remember the film Gorillas in the Mist) and join us in Rwanda!

Highlights

Discover the beauty of Volcanoes National Park

Discover the beauty of Volcanoes National Park

See iconic wildlife including rare mountain gorillas and golden monkeys

See iconic wildlife including rare mountain gorillas and golden monkeys

Get to know the warmth of the Rwanda people

Get to know the warmth of the Rwanda people

Have a life-altering experience trekking with gorillas in their natural habitat

Have a life-altering experience trekking with gorillas in their natural habitat

Explore one of Africa's oldest rainforests, famous for its rich primate species

Explore one of Africa's oldest rainforests, famous for its rich primate species

Traverse the famous canopy walkway of Nyungwe Forest National Park

Traverse the famous canopy walkway of Nyungwe Forest National Park

Learn about Rwanda's conservation programs at Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, Gorilla Doctors, and community-owned non-profit SACOLA

Learn about Rwanda's conservation programs at Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, Gorilla Doctors, and community-owned non-profit SACOLA

Itinerary

Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip.

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Day 1: Friday, September 20th, 2024

We begin our journey in Rwanda with an arrival at Kigali International Airport, where we'll be met and transferred to the elegant Kigali Serena Hotel where we will check in and settle in. 

After some well-deserved relaxation, we will gather for a refreshing welcome drink to kick off our adventure in Rwanda, followed by a delicious dinner to satisfy our taste buds right at the hotel.

Included

Airport Transfer

Dinner

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Day 2: Saturday, September 21st, 2024

We'll begin our day with an early breakfast as we eagerly await the arrival of our private 4x4 vehicle, ready to set out on an adventure in nature. Today, we'll be exploring Rwanda's stunning landscape and stopping along the way to check out the breathtaking views and take in the natural beauty.

Our journey will take us to Nyungwe Forest National Park where we'll drive through picturesque scenery. Along the way, we'll make a stop at the Royal Palace and Museum for a tasty lunch break.

Our next stop will be at Nyungwe's famous canopy walkway, where we'll take in the panoramic views of the ancient treetops and wildlife. After an exhilarating day, we'll arrive at Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel to a warm welcome.

Relax and take in the stunning views from your room and unwind before we gather for a delicious dinner to share our experiences of the day and prepare for tomorrow's adventure.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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Day 3: Sunday, September 22nd, 2024

We will start our day early with an exhilarating chimpanzee trek in the Nyungwe Forest National Park

With over 400 chimps in the park, we will be rewarded with the chance to interact with these amazing primates enjoying their playful antics. Tracking them requires a good level of fitness, but it's a once in a lifetime experience. During our trek, we might also spot blue, mona, silver, and l’hoest monkeys in their habitat.

After lunch, we'll visit the Gisakura Tea Plantation where we'll learn about the cultivation and processing of tea in Rwanda. 

As the day comes to an end, we'll return to our accommodation at Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel. After a long day out in nature, a warm welcome and perhaps a cocktail awaits us. We'll have dinner together before retiring to our rooms to rest up for another day of adventure. 

It will be hard to resist falling in love with Rwanda's incredible landscapes and unique wildlife!

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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Day 4: Monday, September 23rd, 2024

Today after check-out we'll begin our thrilling nature-filled adventure, exploring Rwanda by vehicle for most of the day with various stops to take in our stunning surroundings. Our first stop will be at the picturesque Lake Kivu, where we'll enjoy a break to soak in the breathtaking waterside views.

Afterwards, we'll head to Musanze-Kinigi, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, where we'll check into the luxurious Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel and settle in for the night.

In the afternoon, we'll have a scheduled visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund for a rewarding experience, known as Silverback Sundowners Tour because it comes with refreshments. 

Later, we'll gather for a delicious dinner back at our boutique hotel and reflect on our amazing day. We can relax and enjoy the evening in comfort at the hotel, anticipating the adventures that await us in the coming days.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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Day 5: Tuesday, September 24th, 2024

After savoring an early breakfast, we will embark on an exciting golden monkey trekking adventure at the park headquarters. These speedy primates, a subspecies of the blue monkey, are a sight to behold, living in social groups of up to 100 individuals.

After the trek, we will have the rest of the afternoon to relax and enjoy the lodge's amenities at our leisure. There will be time for an optional spa treatment or a refreshing dip in the pool. 

In the evening, we will attend an informative presentation by the Gorilla Doctors before our sumptuous dinner.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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Day 6: Wednesday, September 25th, 2024

Today we finally come to the highlight of our trip - Mountain gorilla trekking! 

After an early breakfast, our driver will collect us and transfer us to park headquarters. We'll be going on a guided hike through dense rainforest to spend time with a specific gorilla troop in their natural environment. Visiting these enigmatic and beautiful creatures is a life-changing experience. 

After the trek, we can have the afternoon at leisure back at the lodge. 

For those who are interested, a community walking tour will be possible in the afternoon sponsored by the NGO SACOLA.

Back alt the lodge we'll enjoy a late lunch and some well-deserved rest. 

In the evening, we will savor a delicious dinner at the lodge, sharing stories and memories from our unforgettable day.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

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Day 7: Thursday, September 26th, 2024

After breakfast at our accommodation in Volcanoes, we will begin our three-hour road transfer back to Kigali. En route, we may have the opportunity to stop at the Genocide Museum and the Kimironko Market where we can purchase souvenirs and explore the local culture.

As we say goodbye to Rwanda and board our flight home, we know that the memories we made on this trip will last a lifetime. We depart with a sense of camaraderie and gratitude for the bonds we formed and the unforgettable moments we shared. 

Rwanda is a special place, with a rich history and culture, and we will feel lucky to have experienced it firsthand. We will never forget the stunning landscapes, the incredible wildlife, and the warm hospitality of the the Rwandan people.

Included

Breakfast

Airport Transfer

You'll Be Staying Here

Kigali Serena Hotel

Kigali Serena Hotel

The 5-star Kigali Serena Hotel is perfectly located at the city’s business and social epicentre.

Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel is built on the top of one of the hills positioning it to have the most beautiful views in the Nyungwe Forest area. Its is the best accommodation and closest to the Forest. 

Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is the perfect starting point to go for different activities that the Volcanoes National Park is offering but also gives you lot of opportunities to rest and to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of their lodges. 

Hosts

Doni Belau

Doni Belau

Doni Belau is the creator and founder of Girls' Guide to the World. She is an inveterate traveler, having been to nearly 70 countries (and counting). She loves to help other women experience this sensation as she truly feels it helps us see a larger world of possibilities within ourselves. 

Price

Private Room

Private Room

Everyone gets their own fabulous room!

FROM$9,975.00/pp

Discover the Heart of Africa - Karibu Rwanda!!

Experience the Magic of Rwanda

Nestled in the heart of East Africa, Rwanda is a country steeped in natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the lush rainforests of Nyungwe to the misty peaks of Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda's stunning landscapes are home to some of the world's most iconic wildlife.

On our trip to Rwanda, we will embark on an adventure of a lifetime. We will come face-to-face with majestic gorillas, trek through dense rainforests, and witness the fascinating traditions and customs of the Rwandan people.

We'll also have the chance to explore the bustling capital city of Kigali and immerse ourselves in its vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy luxurious lodges with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and experience the warm hospitality of the Rwandan people.

From the wonders of Nyungwe Forest to the lush green hills of Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda offers a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience. Come and join us on this incredible journey of discovery and witness the magic of Rwanda for yourself.

Experience the Magic of Rwanda

What's Included

What's Included

All meals (except where indicated), including beer & wine with dinner.

All in country transportation

Everything specified in the itinerary

A small group experience

Airport transfers

A unique experience at the Dian Fossey foundation

Accommodations at the best hotels Rwanda has on offer

All personal souvenir purchases

Round-trip airfare to Kilgali

Additional wine, beer, and/or spirits beyond what’s offered at meals

Travel and medical insurance (required)

FAQs

The trip officially starts the afternoon of November 1st, but if you’re traveling across an ocean to get to Tanzania you may want to consider arriving a day or two early, so you have time to relax and get acclimated to the local time zone. If you do decide to arrive early, just let us know and we’ll help you with arrangements if you need it. 

Yes, airport transfers are included upon arrival and departure within the dates of the trip. If you choose to come a day early or leave a day late you are responsible for your own transportation. 

We will have a zoom call about 6 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips.

You are going to want to fly into the Arusha Airport (ARK)

In the month of october, maximum temperature is 92°F and minimum temperature is 65°F (for an average temperature of 79°F). The climate is very warm here in the month of october. does not rain (or really exceptionally) during this month. You will be well dry throughout your holidays!

Inquire about this trip

Rwanda's Treasures: Gorillas, Rainforests & Culture

Rwanda· September 20 - 26 2024· 6 nights

FROM$9975/pp