Overview of 10 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats Safari
Overview of 10 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats Safari
Rwanda, often heralded as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” presents an unparalleled tapestry of natural splendor and biodiversity. The 10 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats Safari offers an exquisite opportunity to immerse oneself in a diverse array of landscapes, from verdant rainforests to expansive savannahs. This carefully curated itinerary weaves together the lush expanses of Nyungwe Forest National Park, the serene shores of Lake Kivu, and the awe-inspiring terrain of Volcanoes National Park, renowned for its mystical gorilla trekking experiences. The adventure continues with an exploration of Akagera National Park, where the Big 5 and elusive big cats roam freely, and culminates with a visit to the picturesque twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
Nyungwe Forest National Park, a verdant oasis stretching over an impressive expanse, stands as one of the largest remaining tropical rainforests in East and Central Africa. This verdant wilderness is a sanctuary for a plethora of primate species, including the highly intelligent chimpanzee. The park’s rich biodiversity extends beyond its primate inhabitants to encompass a myriad of avian species and butterfly varieties, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Noteworthy is Nyungwe’s canopy walkway, an architectural marvel suspended above the treetops, offering an unparalleled vantage point from which to appreciate the forest’s intricate ecosystem.
Lake Kivu, with its idyllic small towns and pristine sandy beaches, serves as a delightful interlude in the journey, providing a serene contrast to the rugged terrain of the national parks. The final leg of the adventure takes travelers to Akagera National Park, where they can indulge in exhilarating game drives in search of the Big 5—lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhinoceros—as well as the regal big cats. A leisurely boat cruise on Lake Ihema, known for its abundance of hippos and crocodiles, adds a touch of tranquility to the safari experience. The twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, framed by rolling hills and verdant landscapes, complete this once-in-a-lifetime odyssey.
Day 1 Transfer from Kigali to Nyungwe National Park
Upon the commencement of your journey, a guide will greet you at your Kigali hotel in the morning, initiating the transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park. This lush forest, one of the most expansive in East and Central Africa, promises an immersion into its rich tapestry of flora and fauna. Home to thirteen distinct primate species, including the charismatic colobus monkeys, agile mangabeys, and elusive blue monkeys, the park also shelters the chimpanzees—our closest evolutionary relatives. The forest’s avian diversity, with approximately 310 recorded bird species and 26 endemics, makes it a premier destination for birdwatchers. Following the journey, you will be accommodated at Emeraude Kivu Resort, where you will enjoy a meal and overnight stay, preparing for the adventures ahead.
Day 2 Nyungwe Forest National Park – Chimpanzee Tracking & Canopy Walk
The day begins with an early morning start, setting out to embark on an enthralling chimpanzee tracking expedition. Whether in the Cyamudongo or Uwinka sections, where the chimpanzee population numbers around 80 individuals, this encounter will offer a profound connection with one of our closest relatives. Post-chimpanzee tracking, you may choose to unwind at the hotel or engage in an optional canopy walk. This unique experience, East Africa’s sole canopy walkway, traverses a deep gorge within the forest, providing breathtaking views and opportunities to spot blue monkeys and elusive bird species that inhabit the forest’s upper levels.
Day 3 Nyungwe – Volcanoes National Park
After a hearty breakfast, you will embark on a scenic journey to Kibuye, situated along the shores of Lake Kivu. The drive offers spectacular vistas of the Rwandan countryside. Upon arrival in Kibuye, you will enjoy a leisurely lunch before continuing northwards to Volcanoes National Park. Nestled in the Virunga region, this park is renowned for its spectacular landscape of dormant volcanoes and serves as the home to the majestic mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and other rare primate species. You will spend the night at Tiloreza Volcanoes Eco lodge, a charming retreat that serves as your base for exploring the park.
Day 4 Volcanoes National Park – Golden Monkey Tracking
Following breakfast, you will proceed to the park headquarters for an introduction to the golden monkey tracking experience. This trek, which is typically less strenuous, lasts 1 to 2 hours and allows for an intimate encounter with the endangered golden monkeys. In the afternoon, a visit to the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo awaits, offering tranquil vistas and an opportunity to appreciate the serene beauty of Rwanda’s highland lakes. The evening will be spent at Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge, with dinner and overnight accommodation provided.
Day 5 Mount Bisoke Hiking – Volcanoes National Park
The fifth day begins with an early wake-up call, ensuring you arrive at the Kinigi Park Offices by 7:00 AM for briefing and registration. Equipped with packed lunch and hiking gear, you will embark on a challenging hike to the summit of Mount Bisoke, a dormant volcano standing at 3,711 meters. This strenuous hike, characterized by steep ascents, will lead you to a crater lake and lush vegetation at the summit. The day’s exertions will culminate in a return to your lodge, where you will prepare for the forthcoming gorilla trekking adventure.
Day 6 Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the park headquarters, armed with a packed lunch, for an important briefing on the conduct expected while in the presence of the gorillas. The trek into the dense forest in search of these magnificent creatures may span between 2 to 6 hours, depending on their location. Once located, you will spend a maximum of one hour observing and interacting with the gorillas, an experience that promises to be profoundly memorable. The evening will be spent at Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge, with dinner and an overnight stay provided.
Day 7 Transfer to Akagera National Park – Afternoon Boat Ride
Following breakfast, you will transfer from Volcanoes National Park to Akagera National Park, passing through Kigali en route. Upon arrival at Akagera, you will check into your accommodation at Akagera Game Lodge. After lunch, a serene boat cruise on Lake Ihema awaits, offering the opportunity to observe hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat, either in the water or on the shores. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 8 & 9 Full Day Game Drives in Akagera National Park
The following days are dedicated to immersive game drives within Akagera National Park. Early morning game drives in an open-roofed vehicle provide ample opportunities to encounter a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, hippos, lions, Masai giraffes, gazelles, impalas, baboons, oribis, Butchel’s zebras, topis, bush babies, leopards, and bushbucks. The afternoons are reserved for additional game drives, allowing for further exploration of the park’s diverse ecosystems. Each evening, you will return to Akagera Game Lodge for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Day 10 Akagera National Park – Kigali
On the final day of your safari, an early morning game drive provides one last opportunity to observe the park’s wildlife, including elephants, impalas, black-tailed mongooses, hippos, oribis, bushbucks, antelopes, zebras, cape elands, giraffes, buffaloes, and various primates. Following the game drive, you will transfer back to Kigali, where you will proceed to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your exceptional 10-Day Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats Safari.