5-Day Itinerary: Nyungwe National Park & Volcanoes National Park

Tour Overview

This exciting 5-day adventure takes you through two of Rwanda’s premier national parks.
Experience the rich biodiversity of Nyungwe National Park that’s known for its stunning landscapes and diverse bird species and explore Volcanoes National Park, home to the majestic mountain gorillas.
This itinerary includes primate trekking, guided nature trails, canopy walks, and more, ensuring a memorable journey through Rwanda’s natural beauty.

Tour Highlights

Bird Watching in Nyungwe National Park: Discover over 300 bird species, including endemic and migratory birds.
Guided Nature Trail Hiking: Explore the park’s lush forests and diverse ecosystems with experienced guides.
Canopy Walk: Experience a thrilling walk suspended high above the forest floor, offering stunning views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Visit to Tropical Waterfalls: Enjoy the beauty of cascading waterfalls within the park.
Primate Trekking: Encounter various primate species, including colobus monkeys and chimpanzees.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park: A highlight of your trip, observing the rare mountain gorillas.
Golden Monkey Trekking: Spot these playful primates in their natural habitat.
Visit to Dian Fossey’s Grave: Pay homage to the legendary conservationist in the mountains.
Mountain Hiking: Hike one of the stunning volcanoes in the area.
Camping: Experience the great outdoors by camping in or near the parks.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Nyungwe National Park

Morning
Arrive at Kigali International Airport. A company representative will greet you and transfer you to Nyungwe National Park (approximately 5 hours).
Afternoon
Check in at your lodge or campsite near Nyungwe National Park. Recommended places include Nyungwe Top View Hotel or Gisakura Guesthouse.
Evening
Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. If time allows, take a short walk around the lodge to enjoy the surroundings.
Accommodation.
LUXURY. One & only Nyungwe house
MID-RANGE. Nyungwe top view hotel
BUDGET. Gisakura guest hotel

Day 2: Bird Watching & Guided Nature Trail Hiking.

After breakfast, embark on a guided bird watching tour in Nyungwe National Park. Look for species such as the Rwenzori turaco and the endemic Albertine Rift birds. Enjoy a packed lunch in the park.
Join a guided nature trail hike through the lush forests, exploring the flora and fauna. Look for primates, butterflies, and unique plants.
Return to your lodge/campsite for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation;
LUXURY. One & only Nyungwe house
MID-RANGE. Nyungwe top view hotel
BUDGET. Gisakura guest hotel

Day 3: Canopy Walk & Waterfall Visit

After breakfast, experience the canopy walk, a thrilling walk suspended above the forest, offering stunning views and potential wildlife sightings.
Visit one of Nyungwe’s beautiful tropical waterfalls. Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while having a picnic lunch.
If time permits, go on a short nature hike to further explore the park then later return to your lodge/campsite for dinner and relax by a campfire if camping.
Accommodation.
LUXURY. One & only Nyungwe house
MID-RANGE. Nyungwe top view hotel
BUDGET. Gisakura guest hotel

Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park & Gorilla Trekking

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Volcanoes National Park (approximately 5 hours).
Arrive at your lodge in the Volcanoes region (e.g. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge or Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel) and check in and Prepare for your gorilla trekking experience. A guide will brief you on the next day’s activities.
Relax and enjoy dinner at your lodge. If you’re interested, you can participate in an evening cultural activity, such as traditional dance performances.
Accommodation.
Luxury. Sabyinyo silverback lodge.
Mid-range. Five volcanoes boutique hotel
Budget. Le bamboo gorilla lodge

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking, Golden Monkey Trekking & Dian Fossey’s Grave

After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for your gorilla trekking experience. Your guide will take you through the forest to see the mountain gorillas. Spend one hour with them after the trek.
Return to the lodge for some relaxation.
Afternoon Options:

Option 1: After lunch, embark on a golden monkey trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park.

Option 2: Alternatively, take a hike to visit Dian Fossey’s grave, learning about her incredible work and contributions to gorilla conservation.

After your activities, you can transfer back to Kigali (approximately 2-3 hours) for your departure or overnight stay.

END OF YOUR SAFARI

Tour Includes & Excludes

TOUR INCLUDES

  • Transportation
  • A professional tour guide
  • Entry and trekking fees plus permits
  • All activities unless labeled optional
  • Drinking water
  • Accommodation and meals
  • Airport transfers

 

TOUR EXCLUDES

  • Visa
  • International flights
  • Gratuity (tip)
  • Laundry services
  • Beverages
  • Souvenirs
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