7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trek and Wildlife Tour – Best of Rwanda Safari: Gorillas, Chimpanzees, and Cultural Heritage
Tour Overview
The 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trek and Wildlife Tour offer an unforgettable journey through Rwanda’s top destinations — from the lush Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas, to the misty canopies of Nyungwe Forest where chimpanzees swing freely. This safari combines primate tracking, breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and meaningful history.
Whether you are a passionate wildlife lover or a first-time visitor to Rwanda, this itinerary guarantees a deep and memorable encounter with the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Welcome to Rwanda
On arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the company representative. After a short briefing about your safari, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Kigali for relaxation. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore nearby markets or enjoy the beautiful views of Rwanda’s capital city.
Accommodation Options:
- Hotel des Mille Collines
- Chez Lando Hotel
- Gorilla Nest Lodge (upmarket option)
Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
This is the highlight of your safari — mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, one of the world’s most exciting wildlife encounters. After an early breakfast, drive to the park headquarters in Kinigi where you’ll receive a briefing from park rangers on trekking rules and gorilla family assignments.
With your guide and ranger, begin your trek through the forest in search of your allocated gorilla family. The trek can take between 1 and 6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour watching them feed, play, and interact in their natural habitat — a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Return to your lodge for a hot lunch and relaxation as you enjoy the breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes.
Accommodation:
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Kinigi Guest House
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 3: Hike to Dian Fossey Tomb and Visit Local Communities
After an early breakfast, embark on a guided hike to the Dian Fossey Research Center and Grave Site, located between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. Learn about the life and work of Dr. Dian Fossey, the legendary primatologist who dedicated her life to protecting mountain gorillas.
The hike offers a unique chance to see beautiful montane vegetation, rare birds, and stunning views of the volcanoes.
Later in the afternoon, you may visit a nearby cultural village such as Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll experience traditional Rwandan dance, music, and local crafts.
Accommodation:
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Kinigi Guest House
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 4: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, depart Volcanoes and drive southwest towards Nyungwe Forest National Park, a journey filled with scenic views of hills, tea plantations, and rural life. En route, stop at Butare (Huye) to visit the Ethnographic Museum of Rwanda, which showcases the country’s history, art, and culture.
Continue to Nyungwe and check in at your lodge on arrival.
Accommodation:
- Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel / Gisakura Guest House
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest
After an early breakfast, head into the lush Nyungwe Forest for your chimpanzee trekking adventure. Accompanied by experienced rangers, follow the sounds of chimp calls echoing through the forest canopy.
The trek can be moderately challenging but extremely rewarding as you watch chimpanzees play, groom, and move through the trees. Along the way, you might also encounter other primates such as L’Hoest’s monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and Angolan colobus monkeys.
Optional afternoon activity: Take the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, a suspended bridge offering panoramic views of the forest canopy — a thrilling and scenic experience.
Accommodation:
- Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel / Gisakura Guest House
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 6: Return to Kigali – Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial
After breakfast, drive back to Kigali with several scenic stopovers for photography and relaxation. Upon arrival, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving and educational experience that honors the victims of the 1994 tragedy while celebrating Rwanda’s resilience and unity.
In the evening, relax at your hotel or explore Kigali’s modern cafes and craft markets.
Accommodation:
- Hotel des Mille Collines / Heaven Boutique Hotel
Meal Plan: Half Board
Day 7: Departure from Rwanda
After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your outbound flight.
Your 7-day Rwanda Gorilla Trek and Wildlife Tour ends with wonderful memories of Rwanda’s people, wildlife, and landscapes.
Safari Includes
- Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits
- Park entrance fees
- Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
- Bottled drinking water during safari
Safari Excludes
- International flights
- Rwanda visa fees
- Tips and personal expenses
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Why Choose This 7-Day Rwanda Safari
- Combines gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking in one trip
- Offers both wildlife and cultural experiences
- Visits Rwanda’s top national parks — Volcanoes and Nyungwe
- Ideal for photographers, primate lovers, and nature enthusiasts