11 Day Gorilla Trekking Rwanda (10 Nights)
RWANDA ON THE SPOT
Get ready to make a great decision that will lead you to one of the most extraordinary experiences of your life! This 11 day gorilla trekking Rwanda and safari tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the incredible wildlife of Rwanda, from the majestic mountain gorillas and golden monkeys to the captivating chimpanzees. As you journey through stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences, you’ll feel the thrill of adventure at every turn. This is not just a trip; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that promises unforgettable moments, breathtaking views, and deep connections with nature and local communities. Seize the chance to create memories that will last a lifetime on this incredible journey! Amahoro Tours is here to take your through our wonderful 11 day Rwanda expedition now.
11 Days (10 Nights) Gorilla Trekking Rwanda Tour
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Rwanda, where you'll experience the thrill of encountering some of the world's most remarkable primates. From the awe-inspiring gorillas of Volcanoes National Park to the playful golden monkeys and the intriguing chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park, each day promises extraordinary wildlife encounters. As you traverse lush forests and savannas, prepare for heart-pounding moments and serene connections with these magnificent creatures. Coupled with stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences, this tour offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant ecosystems of Rwanda, making it a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of nature. Amahoro Tours is the epitome of responsible tourism and eco-tourism in Rwanda. The best Rwanda tour with gorillas, chimpanzees and more. Learn more about the incredible 11 day Gorilla trekking itinerary in Rwanda now.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL AT KIGALI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your Amahoro Tours driver/guide and transferred to your hotel in Kigali, where you’ll spend the night, enjoying bed and breakfast accommodations. The anticipation of the best 11 day gorilla trekking tour in Rwanda is about to begin!
Driving distance: 30 Minutes
Activity: 0
Overnight: Value – Ubumwe Grande Hotel | Midrange – Mille Collins Hotel | Luxury – Governor’s Residence
Meal Plan: Bed & breakfast
DAY 2: DEPARTURE FOR NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK + THE KING’S PALACE TOUR
After an early breakfast, set off for Nyungwe National Park, stopping en route in Butare for lunch and a visit to the Nyanza Museum. This museum features a reconstruction of the traditional royal residence—an intricately crafted, beehive-shaped thatched dwelling known as the King’s Palace. Historically, Nyanza was the heart of Rwanda, chosen as the monarchy’s settled home due to its strategic significance and eventually growing to house thousands of inhabitants.
Behind the palace, you'll encounter the regal Inyambo cattle, descendants of the king’s herd, whose caretakers preserve the tradition of singing to them. These elegant, long-horned cattle, part of the Ankole breed, once played a ceremonial role, adorned in jewelry and trained to follow their handlers in a stately parade to honor the king. Though Rwanda’s monarchy ended with independence in 1962, this unique tradition of breeding and grooming Inyambo cattle continues under the Rwanda Agriculture Board. Later, continue to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Driving distance: 5 ½ hours
Activity: King’s Palace Tour
Overnight: Value - Chimpanzee Lodge | Midrange - Nyungwe Top View Hotel | Luxury - One & Only Nyungwe House
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, dinner, Bed & breakfast
DAY 3: CHIMPANZEE TREKKING RWANDA & CANOPY WALK TOUR
Start your day with an early breakfast and, with packed lunch in tow, drive to Nyungwe National Park for the start of your chimpanzee trek. Two species of chimpanzees inhabit Africa: the Bonobo and the Common Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes). The largest remaining populations of Common Chimpanzees are found in central Africa, particularly in Gabon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Cameroon. Rwanda’s population, however, is critically endangered, with only around 400 individuals remaining. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, as chimpanzees can cover great distances in a single day, the experience of trekking through Nyungwe—East and Central Africa’s largest block of montane forest—is truly rewarding, given its incredible biodiversity.
Afterward, embark on the park’s famous canopy walk, which stands 50 meters above the forest floor and spans 150 meters. As the first canopy walkway in East Africa and the third on the continent, it offers a unique perspective from above the trees, bringing you eye-to-eye with birds and monkeys in the forest canopy. Conclude this adventurous day with a return to your hotel or lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Driving distance:
Activity: Chimpanzee Trekking + Canopy walk
Overnight: Value - Chimpanzee Lodge | Midrange - Nyungwe Top View Hotel | Luxury - One & Only Nyungwe House
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, dinner, Bed & breakfast
DAY 4: NATURE WALK + DEPART FOR KIBUYE
After breakfast, head back to Nyungwe National Park for a nature walk to the enchanting Kamiranzovu Waterfall. The forest is a sensory delight, boasting over 200 tree species, more than 280 bird species, and an array of over 100 colorful butterfly species, making it a true haven for nature enthusiasts.
Afterward, drive to Gisenyi, arriving just in time for check-in and lunch at your hotel. From there, continue your journey to Kibuye, located on the eastern tip of Lake Kivu and often celebrated for its stunning lake views. The winding unpaved road from Gisenyi to Cyangugu takes you through hills and mountains adorned with eucalyptus trees and banana terraces. The warm smiles and waves from villagers along the way make you feel like royalty. Arrive at the Cormoran Lodge, check in, and enjoy lunch before settling in for dinner and an overnight stay.
Driving distance:
Activity: Nature walk
Overnight: Cormoran Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast
Day 5: FULL DAY BOAT TOUR SAILING TO GISENYI (SPEED BOAT)
After breakfast, you will have an enjoyable speed-boat trip to Gisenyi. The trip is not only an encounter with local people; fishermen, fishing villages but also with the residents of Idjwi Island (DR Congo) who are rowing long distances in their dugout canoes to visit the Rwanda markets. Ride on to Lake Kivu where we find a picturesque coastline with traditional fishing boats ply the azure waters and lush, verdant hills reach up around us. Enjoy a gentle pace whist enjoying the silence of the open water and watch for the many birds that dart in and out of bushes along the shoreline. Continue to Gisenyi, Rwanda, the largest port on Lake Kivu arriving in time for check in and later lunch at your hotel. Take a swim in this lake that is one of the African Great Lakes. It lies on the border between the Congo and Rwanda; or simply explores the town, enjoying the hustle and bustle of the local market or wander through the leafy streets admiring the old colonial buildings .Later stay for dinner and overnight at your hotel.
Driving distance:
Activity: 3 Hour boat ride
Overnight: Value - Kivu Paradise Resort | Midrange/Luxury - Kivu Serena Hotel
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast
DAY 6: DEPARTURE FOR VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK + KARISOKE RESEARCH CENTER
After breakfast, set off for Musanze, Rwanda’s second-largest town, nestled against the stunning backdrop of the five volcanic precipices of the Virunga Mountains. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely lunch and take in the majestic views.
In the afternoon, visit the renowned Karisoke Research Center, now known as the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Founded by Dr. Dian Fossey in 1967, Karisoke has played a pivotal role in pioneering research on gorilla culture and gorilla conservation. Today, it stands as the world’s longest-running gorilla research site, where cutting-edge science continues to contribute to the preservation of these incredible animals and their habitat.
After this insightful visit, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening with dinner and an overnight stay.
Driving distance:
Activities: Karisoke Research Center tour
Overnight: Value - Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Midrange – Tiloreza Eco Lodge | Luxury - Bisate Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast
DAY 7: GOLDEN MONKEY TREKKING + INTERCULTURAL EXCHANGE
Today is all about the exhilarating experience of tracking golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. You'll venture into lush bamboo forests, where sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a magical atmosphere as you head deep into the monkeys' habitat. Guided by experienced trackers, you’ll seek out groups of ‘habituated’ golden monkeys, who have become accustomed to human visitors. Although viewing time is limited to one hour, this unique opportunity allows you to observe these charming primates as they frolic, feed on tender bamboo shoots, and leap gracefully from branch to branch. You'll also witness mothers caring for their young, completely at ease in your presence.
After an unforgettable morning with the monkeys, return to your lodge for a delicious lunch. Later, visit the Red Rocks Intercultural Exchange Center, where you can engage with local brew makers and learn about the traditional art of brewing banana beer. If you’re interested, you can join local women in the process of squeezing fresh banana juice, and even sample a glass for yourself. You'll discover how this juice transforms into a local brew with the addition of sorghum flour.
In addition to brewing, you’ll have the chance to see artisans at work weaving beautiful baskets, helping support the local community. After this enriching cultural experience, you’ll return to your hotel for dinner and a restful overnight stay. Definitely one of the highlights of the 11 day gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda.
Driving distance: 45 minutes
Activities: 1 Golden Monkey Trek + Intercultural Exchange
Overnight: Value -Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Midrange – Tiloreza Eco Lodge | Luxury -Bisate Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast
DAY 8: GORILLA TRACKING TOUR IN VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK (RW)
After an early breakfast, the excitement builds as you head to the Kinigi National Park headquarters to meet your primate tour guides for the day. Your 1 day gorilla trek is about to begin! Once you complete the park formalities, get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure tracking mountain gorillas! The thrill of knowing you’re about to come face-to-face with these magnificent creatures is exhilarating.
As you trek through the enchanting light mountain forest on the slopes of the Virungas, your heart races with anticipation. The moment you spot the gorillas, an indescribable connection forms; you’ll have the incredible opportunity to spend an hour observing your closest long-lost cousins. This is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking wildlife experiences on Earth! The sheer awe of being within mere meters of these gentle giants, who are among the rarest animals on the planet—fewer than 700 remain in the wild—is overwhelming. You may find yourselves locked in a silent gaze, both species unsure of who should break the spell first.
While the trek can be physically demanding, lasting up to six hours at high altitudes, the experience is worth every effort. Rest assured, many participants aged 70 and older have successfully completed this adventure; if you need a more manageable route, just inform your driver-guide, and they'll arrange a shorter trek for you.
Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and long trousers, and bring gloves for protection against stinging nettles. Don’t forget snacks (for yourself, not the gorillas!) and plenty of water to stay hydrated in the humid rainforest. Your hour with the gorillas will be a memory etched in your heart forever. After this unforgettable experience, return to the lodge for a leisurely lunch and afternoon, followed by dinner and an overnight stay. You will now have the wonderful memories of your 11 day gorilla trekking day in Rwanda forever.
Driving distance: 45 minutes
Activities: 1 Gorilla Trek
Overnight: Value - Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Midrange – Tiloreza Eco Lodge | Luxury - Bisate Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast
DAY 9: DEPARTURE FOR AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
After an early breakfast, you’ll set off for Akagera National Park, a stunning gem along Rwanda’s eastern border where the lush, hilly landscape transitions into the expansive savannas of the Great Rift Valley. This unique ecosystem, marked by shimmering lakes, marshes, and wetlands, is home to an incredible array of wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. As you arrive at your lodge for lunch, the anticipation of the adventures ahead begins to build. The Big 5 is just right around the corner!
In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating boat tour on Lake Ihema, where nature reveals itself in vibrant hues and sounds. Here, you’ll witness the playful antics of large hippos lounging in the water, their heads bobbing like periscopes. Keep your eyes peeled for the enormous Nile crocodiles basking on the banks, their powerful bodies perfectly camouflaged against the shoreline. For birdwatchers, this park is a paradise; you’ll be surrounded by a dazzling variety of birds, from colorful kingfishers to graceful herons, making it a delight for your senses.
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, prepare for a thrilling night game drive starting around 5:30 PM. This unique experience allows you to explore the park under the cover of darkness, revealing the secret life of its nocturnal inhabitants. With the aid of your authorized park guide, you’ll have the chance to encounter animals that come alive at night, such as leopards and bush babies, as well as listen to the calls of various bird species, including the elusive nightjars. The park transforms into a different world, filled with the sounds of rustling leaves and distant animal calls, making this safari experience truly unforgettable.
After a captivating evening of wildlife observation, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, reflecting on the incredible animals and moments you've encountered throughout the day.
Driving distance: 3 hours
Activities: 1 Hour Boat Exploration + Night Game drive
Overnight: Value – Akagera Game Lodge | Midrange – Ruzizi Tented Camp | Luxury – Wilderness Magashi Camp
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast
DAY 10: AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK RWANDA
After breakfast leave the lodge by 07:00 Hrs. to engage on a full day game drive and your exploration starts with a visit to the giraffe valley. Akagera National Park is characterized by woodland, swamps, low mountains and savannah. The varied terrain shelters wildlife including zebras, giraffes, elephants, lions and hundreds of bird species, such as the rare shoebill stork. In the southern part of the park, vast Lake Ihema is home to hippos and crocodiles. Later drive back to your hotel at around 16:00 Hrs. for the evening at leisure then later dinner and overnight.
Driving distance:
Activity: Full day Game drive
Overnight: Value – Akagera Game Lodge | Midrange – Ruzizi Tented Camp | Luxury – Wilderness Magashi Camp
Meal Plan: Full board – Lunch, Dinner, bed & breakfast
DAY 11: DEPARTURE + THE KIGALI CITY TOUR
After an early breakfast, depart for Kigali, where an exciting city tour awaits. Established in 1907 by Dr. Richard Kandt, the first colonial resident governor of Rwanda, Kigali is beautifully nestled among verdant hills, earning its reputation as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” During your visit, you’ll explore captivating sites, including the vibrant craft market, the poignant Gisozi Genocide Memorial, and the informative Kigali Museum. Enjoy lunch in the city, then take advantage of your time for some last-minute shopping in one of Africa's most welcoming capitals. Finally, head to the airport for your onward international flight back home, carrying with you cherished memories of this incredible journey. This is the end of your 11 day gorilla trek Rwanda loves!
End of service
Driving distance: 4 hours
Activities: Kigali City Tour
Overnight: Own arrangement
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Book Your 11 Day (10 Night) Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour Now
Imagine the once-in-a-lifetime memories waiting to be created on this exhilarating 11 day Rwanda gorilla safari tour. From the thrill of tracking majestic mountain gorillas and playful golden monkeys to the awe-inspiring landscapes and vibrant culture, every moment promises to be unforgettable. Don’t miss your chance to experience this extraordinary journey that will enrich your life and ignite your spirit of adventure. Amahoro Tours can't wait to learn more about you and anything you may need for the 11 day gorilla trekking tour. We are happy to answer any and all questions about your Rwanda tour. The time to act is now—book your tour today and step into a world where nature's wonders and incredible wildlife await you! Book now or contact us today!