10 Day Rwanda Gorilla Tour, Chimpanzee Trekking and Akagera National Park Safari
The Magical Rwanda Safari
Are you ready for one of, if not the best 10 day gorilla tour in Rwanda from Amahoro Tours? Prepare to embark on an exhilarating 10-day journey through the breathtaking beauty of Rwanda, where adventure and culture intertwine! From the moment you land at Kigali International Airport and are greeted by your Amahoro guide, you’ll be on a path filled with unforgettable experiences. Explore Akagera National Park on heart-pounding game drives, encounter the majestic Big Five, and seek out playful chimpanzees in the stunning landscapes of Nyungwe National Park. With thrilling canopy walks, cultural exchanges in Kigali, and serene moments on the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu, this is your chance to take a bold step into the extraordinary and embrace the wild side of life!
10 Days (9 Nights) Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Safari, Cultural Tours and More
Get ready for an extraordinary 10 day gorilla tour in Rwanda with Chimpanzees, Akagera National park and more adventures that immerses you in the breathtaking beauty of Rwanda, where the wonders of the animal kingdom and rich cultural experiences await! Upon landing at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your Amahoro guide, who will ensure your seamless transfer to a welcoming hotel. From there, your thrilling journey begins, taking you through the stunning landscapes of Akagera National Park, where game drives will bring you face-to-face with the magnificent Big Five and other captivating wildlife. You’ll explore the lush trails of Nyungwe National Park, searching for playful chimpanzees and marveling at the stunning biodiversity. Then, experience the exhilarating canopy walk and sail on Lake Kivu, absorbing the vibrant culture in Kigali and participating in unique intercultural exchanges.
DAY 1: YOUR ARRIVAL AT KIGALI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you'll be warmly greeted by your Amahoro driver/guide, who will ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel in the heart of Kigali. As you journey through the vibrant streets of Rwanda's capital, take in the sights and sounds of a city rich in culture and history. Once you reach your hotel, you'll settle in for a restful overnight stay on a bed-and-breakfast basis, allowing you to recharge and prepare for the unforgettable adventures that lie ahead.
Driving distance: 15 Minutes
Activity: 0
Meal Plan: Bed & breakfast
Overnight:
Value - Scheba Hotel
Mid-Range - Hotel Mille Collines
Luxury - Kigali Serena Hotel
DAY 2: DEPART FOR THE NEXT ADVENTURE AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
As dawn breaks, you’ll meet your safari representative at your hotel in Kigali, brimming with anticipation for the adventure that awaits at Akagera National Park. Nestled along Rwanda's eastern border, this park is a breathtaking tapestry of landscapes where the rolling hills transform into the sprawling savannas of the Great Rift Valley. With its shimmering lakes, lush swamps, and vibrant marshlands, Akagera teems with wildlife and natural beauty, offering a unique glimpse into Rwanda’s rich ecosystem.
Upon arrival, the thrill begins with an en-route game drive, setting the stage for a day filled with discovery. Keep an eye out for Rwanda's Big 5! Relish a delightful lunch at the camp, where you can unwind while soaking in panoramic views of the savannah from the poolside. The excitement continues with safari boat tour on Lake Ihema, a prime opportunity to witness massive pods of hippos lounging in the water and formidable Nile crocodiles basking in the sun. Birdwatchers will be in paradise, spotting an incredible array of avian species. As the sun sets over this wild paradise, you’ll return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner and an overnight stay, reflecting on the exhilarating experiences of the day.
Driving distance: 3 hours
Activities: Game Drive + Boat ride
Meal Plan: Full Board- Lunch, Dinner & Breakfast
Overnight:
Value - Akagera Game Lodge
Mid-Range - Ruzizi Tented Camp
Luxury - Wilderness Magashi Camp
DAY 3 : FULL DAY AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK GAME DRIVE
After an early breakfast and with your packed lunch in tow, prepare for an exhilarating day of game drives as you head towards the northern gate. Get ready to witness the raw beauty of the animal kingdom, where you might spot predators feasting on their freshly caught prey, and cheer for the lucky ones that managed to survive the night. This region is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the chance to encounter the magnificent Big Five—elephants, buffaloes, and graceful giraffes—as well as charming warthogs, waterbucks, and various antelope species, including the majestic Roan Antelope and the lightning-fast topi. As you navigate the stunning landscapes, with lakes shimmering like strings of pearls, you’ll have countless opportunities to capture breathtaking photos that immortalize these unforgettable moments. Spend the majority of the day on thrilling game drives, exploring the diverse ecosystems and immersing yourself in the vibrant life of the park, before returning to your camp for a well-deserved overnight stay.
Driving distance: 3 hrs.
Activities: Shared Full day game Drives
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Packed lunch.
Overnight:
Budget - Akagera Game Lodge
Mid-Range- Ruzizi Tented Camp
Luxury - Magashi Tented Camp
DAY 4: MORNING SAFARI GAME DRIVE + DEPART KIGALI CITY
Dive into an exhilarating morning at Akagera National Park, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife await. Explore the rolling hills and shimmering lakes while keeping an eye out for the rare Shoebill bird, a must-see for any birdwatcher. After a memorable morning, return to your lodge for a delightful lunch before setting off for Kigali, enjoying a scenic game drive en route. Arriving in the vibrant capital in the late afternoon, immerse yourself in the city’s culture by visiting art galleries that showcase local creativity and the poignant Genocide Memorial, offering deep insights into Rwanda's history and resilience. This day promises a rich tapestry of experiences that will deepen your appreciation for both the natural wonders and the cultural heart of Rwanda.
Driving distance: 3 hrs
Activity: Afternoon city tour
Meal Plan: Lunch & breakfast
Overnight:
Value - Scheba Hotel
Mid-Range - Hotel Mille Collines
Luxury - Kigali Serena Hotel
DAY 5: DEPARTURE FOR NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK
Get ready for an exciting adventure! After a delicious breakfast, an enthusiastic guide from Amahoro Tours will be waiting to whisk you away to the breathtaking Nyungwe National Park. Buckle up for a thrilling 6½-hour drive that takes you through stunning landscapes and vibrant towns, with an exhilarating stop at the famous National Museum in Butare. This gem, donated by the Belgian government, offers an incredible journey through Rwandan culture, showcasing captivating ethnographic objects that reveal the rich tapestry of daily life. Marvel at exquisite traditional ceramics and basketry, renowned as some of the finest handicrafts in the region, all while absorbing the museum's historical significance that stood strong during the tumultuous times of the 1994 civil war.
After immersing yourself in this cultural treasure, enjoy a delicious lunch in Butare before continuing your journey toward chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park. The anticipation builds as you approach this lush expanse of biodiversity, promising a world of adventure that awaits. Arrive at your hotel in time for dinner and settle in for an overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s rich experiences and the thrilling encounters that lie ahead in the heart of Rwanda’s stunning landscapes!
Driving distance: 6 ½ hours
Activity: Museums
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, dinner, Bed & breakfast
Overnight:
Value/Mid-Range - Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge and Nyungwe Top View Hotel
Luxury - One & Only Nyungwe House
DAY 6: RWANDA CHIMPANZEE TREKKING + NATURE WALK TOUR
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, then pack your lunch and set off for the exhilarating chimpanzee trek. Two fascinating species of chimpanzees inhabit Africa: the Bonobo and the Common Chimpanzee, with the latter known for its robust build and intricate social structures. As you journey to Nyungwe National Park, the largest montane forest in East and Central Africa, the thrill of potentially encountering these remarkable primates heightens your senses. Although the population of chimpanzees in Rwanda is limited to around 400 individuals and sightings can't be guaranteed, the anticipation is palpable as you delve into their territory, ready for an unforgettable experience.
Once you enter the lush embrace of Nyungwe, you'll be surrounded by a vibrant tapestry of life. With over 200 species of trees, 280 species of birds, and more than 100 types of colorful butterflies, this forest is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Every step brings you closer to the chimps, whose lively calls echo through the trees, creating an exhilarating atmosphere. Watching them interact, groom, and play in their natural habitat is a breathtaking experience that captures the heart of the wild. After your adventurous search, enjoy a nature walk to the enchanting Kamiranzovu waterfall, where the cascading water invites tranquility amidst the forest's vibrant energy. Reflect on your day filled with incredible encounters before returning to your hotel for a delightful dinner and a restful overnight stay, inspired by the wonders you've just explored.
Driving distance:
Activity: Chimpanzee Trekking + Nature walk
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, dinner, Bed & breakfast
Overnight:
Value/Mid-Range - Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge and Nyungwe Top View Hotel
Luxury - One & Only Nyungwe House
DAY 7: CANOPY WALK + DEPARTURE FOR GISENYI
After breakfast, prepare for an exhilarating adventure as we journey to the canopy walk, an incredible feat of engineering perched 50 meters above the ground. This 150-meter walkway, the first of its kind in East Africa and the third on the continent, invites you to soar above the forest, offering breathtaking views and an eye-level encounter with the vibrant wildlife that calls this lush ecosystem home. Imagine the thrill of watching monkeys swing playfully through the branches and vibrant birds flitting by, all while surrounded by the rich sounds of the forest—this is a truly wild experience that will leave you in awe!
Following our canopy adventure, we’ll head to Gisenyi, Rwanda's largest port on the stunning shores of Lake Kivu. Arriving in time for check-in and a delicious lunch at your hotel, you’ll have the chance to unwind and refresh with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of one of Africa's Great Lakes. The afternoon is yours to explore this bustling port town, guided by our knowledgeable local guide. You can take a scenic boat ride to one of Lake Kivu’s picturesque islands, immerse yourself in the lively local market, or stroll through the leafy streets, taking in the charming colonial architecture. As the sun sets, you’ll return to your hotel for a delightful dinner and a restful overnight stay, your heart still racing from the day's wild adventures and the vibrant energy of Gisenyi.
Driving distance: 4 ½ Hours
Activity: Canopy walk + boat ride
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast
Overnight:
Value/Mid-Range - Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge and Nyungwe Top View Hotel
Luxury - One & Only Nyungwe House
DAY 8: DEPART FOR RUHENGERI + INTERCULTURAL EXCHANGE
After breakfast, you'll journey to the picturesque Ruhengeri area, Rwanda's second-largest town, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the 5 Virunga volcanoes. Upon arrival, you’ll savor a delightful lunch before visiting the Red Rocks Intercultural Exchange Centre. Here, you'll dive into the captivating process of brewing local strong beer from bananas. If you're eager to participate, you can join the local women in extracting juice from the bananas and enjoy a glass of this refreshing drink—an optional treat!
You'll also witness the beautiful art of basket weaving, which reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the community. This experience not only enhances your understanding of local traditions but also directly supports the families and artisans involved. After immersing yourself in the vibrant culture, you'll head back to your hotel for dinner and a restful overnight stay, cherishing the unique connections and experiences gained throughout the day.
Driving distance: 2 hours
Activities: City Tour + Intercultural Exchange
Overnight:
Value - Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel
Mid-Range - Five Volcanoes Lodge
Luxury - One & Only Gorillas Nest
DAY 9: RWANDAN GORILLA TRACKING
After an early breakfast, your journey begins at the National Park headquarters in Kinigi, where you’ll meet your experienced guides for the day. After completing the necessary park formalities, you’ll dive into the exhilarating experience of tracking mountain gorillas. As you navigate the light mountain forest on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, anticipation builds with each step, knowing you are about to come face to face with some of the world's most magnificent creatures.
Respect and Admiration To The Mountain Gorillas
Once you spot the gorillas, you'll be captivated by the sight of these gentle giants, often just feet away from you. You'll have the rare opportunity to spend an hour in their presence, watching in awe as they go about their daily lives. It's an experience like no other; the moment is serene as you exchange glances, both curious and calm, feeling the breath of the wild around you. At times, a gorilla might accidentally brush against you, reminding you just how intimate this connection is. With fewer than 700 of these incredible primates left in the world, you will treasure this unforgettable hour spent among them.
While the trek can be challenging, lasting up to six hours or more at high altitude, your guides are here to ensure your comfort, tailoring the experience to your fitness level. Don’t forget to wear sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, and gloves for protection against stinging nettles, and pack enough water and snacks to stay energized. The time you spend with these magnificent gorillas will leave a lasting imprint on your heart, creating memories that will stay with you long after you return to your hotel for lunch, dinner, and a restful overnight stay.
Driving distance: 45 minutes
Activities: 1 Gorilla Trek
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast
Overnight:
Budget - Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel
Mid-Range - Five Volcanoes Lodge
Luxury - One & Only Gorillas Nest
DAY 10: GOLDEN MONKEYS TREKKING + DEPARTURE FOR KIGALI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
This day is dedicated to the exhilarating experience of golden monkey tracking in Rwanda. As you venture into the enchanting bamboo forests dotted with open glades, your guides will lead you into the heart of golden monkey territory, where you'll encounter these playful primates up close. You'll visit groups of habituated golden monkeys, who have grown accustomed to human presence, allowing for a rare opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. Although viewing is limited to one hour, it’s a magical time as adult monkeys frolic around, munching on bamboo leaves and gracefully leaping from branch to branch, while females tenderly carry their young in complete comfort among the observers. After this remarkable adventure, you’ll head back to Kigali, where you can explore vibrant markets filled with local crafts and treasures, soaking in the warm atmosphere of one of Africa’s most welcoming capitals before concluding your journey with a flight home.
Driving distance: 2 Hours
Activities: Golden Monkey trek
Overnight: 0
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Book The Best 10 Day Gorilla Tour In Rwanda with Chimpanzees, Safari and More
As you traverse Rwanda’s majestic terrain, each day promises unforgettable moments—whether it's tracking mountain gorillas in their natural habitat or watching golden monkeys swing gracefully among the bamboo. This journey is not just a tour; it's a vibrant tapestry of experiences that connect you to the heart and soul of Rwanda. Don’t miss this chance to create lasting memories in a land of breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife. Book your adventure with Amahoro Tours today and let the excitement unfold!