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Kigali - Volcanoes National Park - Nyungwe National Park - Kigali
5 Days Rwanda Primate Safari
Introduction
The 5-Day Rwanda Primate Safari is Rwanda's ultimate primate adventure combining gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and chimpanzee trekking across Rwanda's diverse national parks. This safari is ideal for travelers seeking the most comprehensive primate experience in the Land of a Thousand Hills.
Volcanoes National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorilla, while Nyungwe National Park hosts over 13 species of primates including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and L'Hoest's monkeys. Together they represent the finest primate destinations in East Africa.
Your journey begins in Kigali and continues to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking. A domestic flight or scenic drive takes you to Nyungwe for chimpanzee trekking and a canopy walk before returning to Kigali.
Why This Safari?
Three Primate Species
Track gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimpanzees on one comprehensive safari - an unmatched primate experience.
Expert Primate Trackers
Work with the best park rangers and trackers from the RDB and Nyungwe park authorities.
Nyungwe Canopy Walk
Walk above the rainforest on Africa's treetop canopy walkway in Nyungwe National Park.
Cultural Immersion
Visit the IbyIwacu Cultural Village to experience traditional Rwandan dance and music.
Safety First
Well-maintained vehicles and experienced guides ensure your safety throughout all treks.
Seamless Logistics
Flights and transfers between parks included for maximum comfort and efficiency.
Authentic Encounters
Experience life-changing encounters with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat - a photographer's dream.
Nyungwe Canopy Walk
Experience Africa treetop canopy walk in Nyungwe National Park. through the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks partnership. Your visit directly supports this vital conservation work.
100% Locally Owned
We are a proudly East African travel company with deep knowledge of Rwanda, ensuring authentic, immersive safari insights that only true locals can provide.
Cultural Immersion
Visit the IbyIwacu Cultural Village to experience traditional Rwandan dance and music., virtually guaranteeing spectacular encounters with the Big Five and the elusive shoebill stork.
Seamless Logistics
Domestic flights and transfers included between parks for maximum comfort. in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe, or a relaxing Lake Kivu retreat.
Tour Highlights
- Track Endangered Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes NP
- Track Golden Monkeys in Virunga Bamboo Forests
- Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe NP
- Nyungwe Canopy Walkway Experience
- Kigali City Tour & Genocide Memorial
- Cultural Village Experience with Intore Dancers
Detailed Itinerary
Each day is carefully crafted to maximise your wildlife encounters while ensuring comfort and relaxation in one of Tanzania's most exclusive safari destinations.
Kigali City Tour & Transfer to Volcanoes NP
Your African Majestic Adventure guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kigali or the airport at sunrise. After a briefing, we begin the comfortable 2.5-hour drive eastward. The road takes us through the lush agricultural heartland of Rwanda, where you can see the famous terraced hills. We arrive at the southern gate of Volcanoes National Park by mid-morning. After completing park formalities, we enter the park and begin our first wildlife sightings as we head to the lodge for check-in and lunch.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the highlight of your safari - gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, report to the park headquarters at Kinigi for a briefing by the Rwanda Development Board. You will be assigned to a gorilla family and briefed on trekking protocols. The trek takes you through farmland, bamboo forests, and dense montane vegetation.
Return to Kigali with Cultural Stop
On our final morning, we enjoy breakfast at the lodge with stunning volcano views. We visit the IbyIwacu Cultural Village for an immersive experience in traditional Rwandan life. Then we begin the scenic drive back to Kigali.
Destinations You'll Explore
Volcanoes National Park
Located in northern Rwanda within the Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes NP is one of the last refuges for endangered mountain gorillas, covering 160 sq km of bamboo and montane forest.
Nyungwe National Park
A vast montane rainforest in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe is one of Africa's oldest forests and home to over 13 primate species including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and L'Hoest's monkeys.
Kigali - The Capital
Rwanda's clean and safe capital city serves as the starting point for your primate safari, offering cultural sites, markets, and excellent restaurants.
Gorilla Trekking
The centerpiece of Volcanoes National Park, Gorilla Trekking is Rwanda's second-largest lake and a sanctuary for enormous hippo pods, massive Nile crocodiles, and spectacular birdlife including the rare shoebill stork.
Kigali - The Capital
The starting and ending point of your Rwanda safari, Kigali is one of Africa's cleanest and safest cities. Your journey begins with a city tour before heading north through Rwanda's iconic terraced hills to Volcanoes National Park.
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Wildlife in Volcanoes NP & Nyungwe
Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe National Park are Rwanda's premier primate destinations. Here's what you can expect to see.
- Primates: Mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, chimpanzees, colobus monkeys
- Mammals: Forest hogs, bushbucks, duikers, tree hyrax
- Birds: Over 300 species including Rwenzori turaco, great blue turaco
- Vegetation: Bamboo forests, giant lobelias, montane rainforest, cloud forest
- Unique: One of Africa's most biodiverse primate habitats
- Unique: Ancient rainforest with over 1,000 plant species
Photo Gallery
Volcanoes NP
Gorilla in Volcanoes NP
Golden Monkeys
Gorilla Trekking Boat SafariVolcano ViewsShoebill Stork
Location
What Our Travelers Say
Join thousands of satisfied travelers who have experienced Rwanda's wilderness with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Volcanoes National Park a Big Five destination?
Yes! Volcanoes NP is one of the last refuges for endangered mountain park. Lions were reintroduced in 2015, black rhinos in 2017, and the park is also home to leopards, elephants, and Cape buffalo. It is one of Africa's greatest conservation success stories.
What is the best time for gorilla trekking?
The dry seasons from June to September and December to February offer the best conditions for trekking as forest trails are less muddy. The green season offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
What should I pack for gorilla trekking?
Pack waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, garden gloves, a rain jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera with extra batteries.
How physically demanding is gorilla trekking?
The trek can vary from 1 to 5 hours through dense vegetation and steep muddy terrain. A reasonable fitness level is recommended. Porters are available at park headquarters.
Do I need a visa for Rwanda?
Yes, most visitors require a Rwanda visa. You can apply for an eVisa online or obtain one upon arrival. Visas are not included in the tour price.
What animals will I see in Volcanoes NP?
Volcanoes NP is home to mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, forest hogs, bushbucks, and over 200 bird species including the Rwenzori turaco and sunbirds.
What type of accommodation is included?
Luxury lodges and tented camps within the park including Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge and Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge with stunning views of Gorilla Trekking.
How do I get to Volcanoes NP from Kigali?
Volcanoes National Park is a comfortable 2.5-hour drive north from Kigali on good roads through Rwanda's beautiful terraced hills.
Is Volcanoes NP safe for tourists?
Yes, Volcanoes NP is a safe and well-managed park. Professional guides, secure lodges, and established safari protocols ensure your safety throughout the trip.
How much does this safari cost?
Please contact us for a personalised quote. Prices vary based on group size, accommodation level, and season. We offer luxury options to suit your preferences.
Ready for the Ultimate Primate Safari?
Book your 5-Day Rwanda Primate Safari. Rwanda's most spectacular savannah adventure awaits.