Private/Group Tour Highlights
- Arrive in Kigali and enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey.
- Explore Kigali’s highlights, including the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial.
- Journey to Nyungwe National Park with a scenic drive and visit to a local tea plantation.
- Experience a thrilling Chimpanzee Trek through Nyungwe’s lush rainforest and meet fascinating primates.
- Walk high above the trees on the Canopy Walk, offering stunning views of Nyungwe’s diverse ecosystem.
- Transfer to Volcanoes National Park and relax amidst the breathtaking volcanic landscapes.
- Trek to meet the world-famous mountain gorillas in their natural habitat and visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
- End your adventure with Golden Monkey Trekking before heading back to Kigali for your flight home.
Tour Overview
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Rwanda with this extraordinary journey through the land of a thousand hills. Begin in Kigali, a city blending vibrant culture with a poignant history, where highlights include a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Travel to Nyungwe National Park, home to one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, for thrilling chimpanzee trekking and a breathtaking canopy walk high above the treetops. Along the way, enjoy scenic drives, a visit to a local tea plantation, and accommodations that offer luxurious comfort and authentic Rwandan charm.
The adventure continues in Volcanoes National Park, renowned for its majestic volcanic landscapes and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Trek through dense forests to meet mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in their natural habitats, and visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn about ongoing conservation efforts. With awe-inspiring landscapes, intimate primate experiences, and enriching cultural insights, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery in one of Africa’s most captivating destinations.
Inclusions
- Accommodations, Meals, Activities:
- Visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Canopy Walk in Nyungwe National Park
- Visit to a local tea plantation
- Visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
- Reusable metal water bottle for drinking water in the safari vehicle
- AMREF Flying Doctor emergency evacuation insurance for the duration of the trip
- 24/7 service support from our regional office
- Government taxes and VAT where applicable
Exclusions
- Medical and travel insurance
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
- Deviations from the itinerary or optional activities
- Items of a personal nature
- Drinks and laundry service unless noted
- Gratuities and tipping
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
Welcome to Rwanda
Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where a warm welcome awaits.
You’ll be assisted through entry formalities and, once outside the airport, introduced to your dedicated driver/guide. Sit back and enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey ahead.
Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where a warm welcome awaits.
You’ll be assisted through entry formalities and, once outside the airport, introduced to your dedicated driver/guide. Sit back and enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey ahead.
Exploring Kigali
Spend read more...
Spend the day exploring Kigali on a City Tour with optional activities, including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and lunch at Heaven Restaurant.
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is the final resting place for over 250,000 victims of the 1994 genocide. It features permanent exhibitions that detail the horrors of the genocide, the history of Rwandan society, and stories of survival. Visitors can walk through the gardens of reflection, visit the mass graves, and explore the children’s memorial. Guided tours or a digital guide provide insights into the memorial's poignant history.
Overnight in Kigali. ...read less
Journey to Nyungwe National Park
Embark read more...
Embark on a scenic road transfer to Nyungwe National Park (approximately 5-6 hours), with a lunch stop along the way and a visit to a local tea plantation.
Nyungwe, one of Africa's oldest rainforests, spans 1,019 km² of diverse habitats, including dense forests, bamboo slopes, grasslands, and wetlands. It's home to over 1,100 plant species, 345 bird species, and 85 mammal species, including chimpanzees and the rare Ruwenzori black-and-white colobus. A successful partnership with the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks aims to restore and protect the park’s rich biodiversity while supporting the surrounding communities.
After arriving in the region, enjoy dinner and overnight at your hotel. ...read less
Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk
After read more...
After a morning transfer to Nyungwe Park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing, embark on an unforgettable Chimpanzee Trek.
This three to four-hour trek takes you through Nyungwe's dense forests, guided by trackers who help locate chimpanzee communities. Spend an hour observing these fascinating primates in their natural habitat as they swing through the trees.
Later, enjoy a Canopy Walk suspended high above a ravine, offering breathtaking views of the rainforest and treetops. This two-hour walk takes you through lush terrain, where you may spot vibrant birdlife, butterflies, and even the region’s resident primates.
Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay. ...read less
Volcanoes National Park
Transfer read more...
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park (approximately 5-6 hours). Upon arrival, check in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Volcanoes National Park, located just a three-hour drive from Kigali, covers 160 km² of lush montane ecosystems, including evergreen and bamboo forests. The park is home to five of the eight Virunga Mountains, with Karisimbi standing tall at 4,507 meters. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, it offers one of the world’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences: encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Nearly half of the world’s wild population of mountain gorillas resides here, and the park is also famous as the backdrop for Gorillas in the Mist, the story of Dian Fossey's pioneering research on gorilla conservation.
Overnight in Volcanoes National Park. ...read less
Gorilla Trekking and Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Visit
Start read more...
Start with an early transfer to park headquarters, followed by a trek to encounter one of the habituated gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park.
Spend an hour with the gorillas before returning to your vehicle. Afterward, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn about conservation efforts and Dian Fossey's legacy.
Optionally, participate in the Beyond The Trek session, an hour-long interactive discussion with gorilla experts about conservation, behaviors, and the community’s role in protecting the gorillas.
After the tour, you will be transferred back to your lodge for your overnight stay. ...read less
Golden Monkey Trekking - Flight Home
In the morning, transfer to the park headquarters for an unforgettable Golden Monkey Trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park.
Afterward, enjoy a packed lunch as you begin your scenic drive back to Kigali (approximately 2.5-3 hours). Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight home.
In the morning, transfer to the park headquarters for an unforgettable Golden Monkey Trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park.
Afterward, enjoy a packed lunch as you begin your scenic drive back to Kigali (approximately 2.5-3 hours). Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight home.
Kigali, Rwanda
Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park, Ruhengeri, Rwanda
Places You'll See
-
Kigali
Spread across a hilly region, the populous city of Kigali is a modern feat of Rwanda. Visit the Ivuka Arts center and other museums and appreciate the thriving culture in this emerging city and Capital of Rwanda. Enjoy some locally grown coffee just before hiking up Mount Kigali for its spectacular views, or take a taxi ride on the back of a motor bike at sunset.
-
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a beautiful and expansive rain forest filled with diverse species to be seen. From primates to hundreds of species of birds, Nyungwe is the animal enthusiasts dream destination. Enjoy activites such as Hiking and tracking animals or experiencing the canopy walk.
-
Rwanda Volcanoes National Park
Known as a haven for mountain gorillas, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is the prime habitat to spot these majestic primates. This mountain range stands high with five volcanoes covered in rich vegetation that feeds an assortment of wildlife that can be spotted while trekking the area. Along with visiting these magnificent creatures, Pay respects to the eminent primatologist Dian Fossey at her resting place.
Media Gallery
Hotel Options
5 Star Properties
Kigali : The Retreat By Heaven
The Retreat By Heaven
Kigali , RWANDA
Nestled in the heart of Kigali, this luxury boutique hotel and spa provides seamless access to one of the cleanest, safest cities in Africa. The Retreat blends tranquility, Rwandan charm, and vibrant urban energy. Whether savoring Fusion’s exotic cuisine, luxuriating in a spa treatment or immersing in onsite cultural activities, guests enjoy this tropical oasis and the staff’s warm, authentic Rwandan hospitality.
From suites to luxury pool villas with private saltwater plunge pools, The Retreat is the destination in Kigali for travelers going on to luxury safari in Rwanda. From elegantly designed rooms to private pool villas, every space exudes sophistication and comfort. Perched beside the glorious saltwater pool, rock gardens, and native plantings, Fusion is the most elegant spot in Kigali to explore farm-to-table cuisine and experience first-class hospitality. Unwind and rejuvenate with spa experiences in their unique indoor-outdoor spa spaces.
Experiences & Activities
Engage in an array of activities such as exploring the vibrant Rwandan artwork, delving into the tradition of banana beer making, mastering the art of mixology with cocktail-making experiences, and partaking in an interactive traditional Rwandan cooking class featuring quality ingredients sourced from local farmers and an onsite organic garden.
Kigali Serena Hotel
Kigali , RWANDA
On an enchanting boulevard in the heart of Kigali, Rwanda, in a secure location just a five-minute walk from the CBD, lies Kigali Serena Hotel. A distinctively rich blend of Rwandan heritage, art and culture with contemporary 5-star comfort in 148 sophisticated rooms and suites, Serena Kigali hotel provides a private and peaceful retreat like no other for discerning international diplomats and executives. The hotel is renowned for going above and beyond and has a unique sense of place with restaurants, a health spa, and a tropically landscaped swimming pool.
Nyungwe National Park : Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel
Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel
Nyungwe National Park , RWANDA
Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel offers a resort lifestyle in the Rusizi District of the Western Province of Rwanda. This luxury hotel is located in close proximity of Lake Kivu and Nyungwe National Park in the western region of the country and is located just 1km from Kamembe Airport in Cyangugu. It’s designed to accommodate a convention center, a lake view swimming pool, and a luxurious health spa.
Experience & Activities
The Kivu belt offers breathtaking scenery, exquisite weather, and many activities. It is rich with flora and fauna, cultural heritage sites, and nature trails and is a popular tourist destination given its proximity to the Volcanoes National Park, home of the mountain gorillas. Guests can tantalize their senses as they participate in coffee roasting and tasting at the coffee processing project which is accessible by boat. End your day off by watching as the fishermen make their way to the lake, and you may even hear the faint sound of the folk songs they chant to call on good luck for the night’s fishing.
Nyungwe National Park : One&Only Nyungwe House
One&Only Nyungwe House
Nyungwe National Park , RWANDA
In southwest Rwanda, just south of Lake Kivu on the Burundi border, One&Only Nyungwe House is set amongst the rich tea-plantations of Gisakura, on the edge of the iconic Nyungwe National Park. The park itself covers approximately 1020 km² of rainforest, bamboo, grassland, swamps and bogs, and is one of the last mountain rainforest habitats on the planet. Ngungwe Forest National Park is home to over 13 different species of primate and 20% of all the apes in Africa. The lush and diverse habitat is famously home to a large population of chimpanzees and endangered monkeys; including the owl faced monkey and the golden monkey, of which sightings are reported, but unverified.
Volcanoes National Park : Virunga Lodge
Virunga Lodge
Volcanoes National Park , RWANDA
The magnificent Virunga Lodge is perched high on a ridge with stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the Musanze valley to the west, and Lakes Bulera and Ruhondo to the east. The lodge offers some of the finest views in Africa, uniquely decorated rooms in the Rwandese style, fantastic food, and exceptional and personalized service by carefully trained staff.
Experience & Activities
Experiences include tracking mountain gorillas through the dense African forests, tracking golden monkeys, watching Intore dancers, visiting Dian Fossey’s Grave, bird watching, climbing a volcano, a Lake Bulera village walk, and assisting with community projects.
Testimonials
Deborah L.
Traveled December 2017
Thank you so much for making this a unique and very special adventure for us….
We had an outstanding trip, thanks to you!! We both feel that every travel detail was seamlessly handled for us so we did not have to think about anything but enjoying our travels. You did an amazing job for us!!
What was an incredible trip to view and photograph chimpanzees and gorillas also tuned out to be a trip to meet and fall in love with the land and people of Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda! Our guide in Tanzania, Sexton, was delightful and excellent in making sure our experience was exactly what we wanted. Although our time was short with him, we truly enjoyed every minute with him.
We also just couldn’t have had a better guide than, Eric Nodorere, who became a very dear friend and cherished travel companion throughout our extended travels through Rwanda and Uganda. Indeed we have never spent so much concentrated time with anyone except our children and wouldn’t have had it another way. Eric was very observant and sensitive to making sure everything went perfectly without our even noticing which is the definition of “exceeding expectations”! Our lively and open conversations together as we spent hours together only enhanced our experience and lead to a deep understanding for all of us which was very enriching and satisfying.
We truly shared some amazing experiences with Eric who was also astute enough to know that we like to be in charge of our own schedules and frequently like to wander off by ourselves. He graciously supported our requests and gave us space and time to do everything at our own pace. Having the freedom to get out on our own meeting and getting to know people in their own environment is one of the best ways to gain understanding and appreciation of the world and enrich our lives and perhaps the lives of those we encounter.
I will send you a couple of videos in a separate email that gives a glimpse of only some of our experiences. I am now looking forward to getting into my Art Studio and expressing our beautiful time in Africa.
Thank you so much, Stephanie, for making this a unique and very special adventure for us….
Traveled To
Patricia K.
Traveled October 2018
Care, Efficiency, Fun and No Worries in Your Travel!
I have done two extensive trips organized by Yampu Tours. These trips have covered 11 countries – 7 in Africa and 4 in Asia. Without a doubt Yampu has done an excellent job planning for us to see what we wanted and get among the countries comfortably. They are immediately responsive to every question. The itinerary that is sent is complete with details about each hotel, tent, airline and important highlights about each country. The contracted tour agencies in each country also live up to the standard set by Yampu and if you have even a slight problem and contact Yampu, it is taken care of before you even leave that country. We have traveled to 71 countries and used various travel agents. Hands down, Yampu has been the best.
Traveled To
