"12 Day Rwanda Birding & Primate Tour"
Overview – 12 Days of Wildlife, Culture and Scenic Splendor
Experience the ultimate Rwandan adventure with a 12-day journey through lush rainforests, misty volcanoes, and serene lakes. Encounter majestic Mountain gorillas and playful golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, track chimpanzees amid the primate-rich Nyungwe Forest, and immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich culture and history with visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, royal palaces, and artisan markets. Delight in luxurious accommodations, fine dining, scenic boat cruises on Lake Kivu, and expertly guided safaris in Akagera National Park, home to the Big Five. This curated itinerary blends adventure, comfort, and elegance for an unforgettable exploration of Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Welcome to Rwanda
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport (Kanombe International Airport), you will be warmly welcomed by a professional representative from Terrain Safaris. After a gracious meet-and-greet, you will receive a brief orientation outlining the exceptional journey that lies ahead.
You will then be transferred in comfort through the clean, green boulevards of Kigali to your selected hotel. Depending on your preferred level of accommodation, you will check-in at the iconic Hôtel des Mille Collines, renowned for its rich history, refined service, and elegant ambiance.
Upon arrival, enjoy a seamless check-in and take time to unwind after your journey. In the evening, savor a delightful dinner at your hotel, reflecting the warm hospitality and subtle flavors of Rwanda, before retiring for a restful overnight stay in the heart of the capital.
Overnight: Hôtel des Mille Collines
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Kigali City Tour & Scenic Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Kigali, you will set out on a thoughtfully curated morning city tour, offering an enriching introduction to Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Depending on your interests and available time, highlights may include visits to select cultural landmarks, local artisan markets, and panoramic viewpoints that showcase Kigali’s immaculate streets and progressive spirit.
Following your city exploration, you will embark on a scenic drive northward toward Volcanoes National Park, traveling through the picturesque town of Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri). The journey unfolds across Rwanda’s famed “Land of a Thousand Hills,” where rolling emerald landscapes, terraced farmlands, and distant volcanic peaks create a truly breathtaking panorama.
As you ascend into the Virunga highlands, the dramatic silhouettes of the volcanoes gradually emerge, setting the stage for your upcoming primate encounters. The drive is both relaxing and visually captivating, with ample opportunities to admire the countryside and capture memorable photographs.
Upon arrival near the park in Kinigi, you will check in at Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, an inviting lodge set against the backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes. Settle into your comfortable accommodation and take in the cool mountain air before enjoying a refined dinner and a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the serenity of Rwanda’s northern highlands.
Overnight: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 3: Gorilla Tracking in Volcanoes National Park
This will be the highlight of our safari and after breakfast at your lodge or guest house, we will head to the park headquarters in Kinigi for a briefing from the park wardens. After the briefing, you will then head for gorilla tracking with in Volcanoes National park with the rest of the trackers. Your encounter with these man’s closest shy friends will be a highlight of your Rwanda Safari and the experience you will get this day, will be memorable and your safari will be a once life time to remember.
Gorilla tracking/trekking can take 2 to 8 hours with in this jungle forest and it depends on the movement of the Gorillas on the previous and that particular day. After tracking, you will retire to your hotel for dinner and overnight at Mountain Gorilla View Hotel/Hotel Le Palme/Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge.
Day 4: Golden Monkey Trekking & Scenic Transfer to Lake Kivu
After an early gourmet breakfast, you will transfer to the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park for a briefing before setting out on an exhilarating Golden Monkey trekking experience. Accompanied by expert rangers, you will venture into the park’s enchanting bamboo forests in search of these rare and playful primates, known for their striking golden-orange fur and lively social behavior.
The trek offers an immersive rainforest experience, with opportunities to observe the monkeys as they leap gracefully between bamboo stems and forage along the forest floor. The duration of the trek varies depending on the movement of the troops, ensuring an authentic and rewarding wildlife encounter within one of Africa’s most biodiverse ecosystems.
After your trek, return to the lodge for a leisurely lunch and time to refresh before beginning your scenic transfer to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most beautiful freshwater lakes.
The drive descends from the misty Virunga highlands toward the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, revealing spectacular views of terraced hills and sparkling waters along the way. Upon arrival, you may choose to unwind on the sandy lakeside, enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake’s clear, bilharzia-free waters, or simply relax and take in the serene atmosphere.
Your evening will be spent at either the elegant Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, offering refined lakeside luxury, known for its relaxed ambiance and scenic setting.
Enjoy a sumptuous dinner overlooking the water, followed by a peaceful overnight stay along the shores of this magnificent African lake.
Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Scenic Boat Cruise on Lake Kivu & Exploration of Gisenyi
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most picturesque freshwater lakes. Thereafter, embark on a private boat cruise, gliding across the crystal-clear waters toward one of the lake’s charming coffee-growing islands.
As you cruise, take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the distant silhouette of Mount Nyiragongo, the dramatic stratovolcano famed for its powerful eruption in 2002. The sight of its towering presence across the border in the Democratic Republic of Congo adds a striking backdrop to your serene lakeside experience.
Upon reaching the island, you may explore the small-scale coffee plantations and learn about the traditional cultivation and processing methods that contribute to Rwanda’s renowned coffee heritage. The calm waters, gentle breeze, and stunning scenery create an atmosphere of pure relaxation and refinement.
Following the cruise, enjoy a brief guided tour of Gisenyi, a charming lakeside town known for its colonial-era architecture, sandy beaches, and laid-back ambiance. This leisurely exploration offers insight into local life and the region’s unique character.
In the late afternoon, return to your hotel to unwind. The evening concludes with a sumptuous dinner and overnight stay at either the elegant Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, where comfort and refined hospitality await along the shores of Lake Kivu.
Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park & Canopy Walk Experience
After a leisurely early morning breakfast, you will depart the lakeside and begin your scenic journey southward to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse montane rainforests. This extraordinary park is home to nearly 25% of Africa’s primate species, making it a sanctuary of remarkable ecological significance.
Upon arrival, you will proceed directly to one of Nyungwe’s most iconic experiences – the guided canopy walk. Suspended high above the forest floor, this elevated walkway offers a breathtaking perspective over the lush rainforest canopy and is particularly rewarding for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
As you traverse the canopy bridge, keep watch for spectacular forest bird species such as the Rwenzori Turaco and the striking Black-and-White Casqued Hornbill, along with many other Albertine Rift endemics. The forest is also home to impressive troops of Angolan Colobus monkeys, often seen leaping gracefully through the treetops, creating dramatic and unforgettable wildlife moments.
The canopy walk combines gentle adventure with refined immersion in nature, offering sweeping views across the emerald forest landscape and distant mist-covered hills.
After this memorable experience, transfer to the luxurious Nyungwe Forest Lodge, beautifully set within a working tea plantation at the edge of the rainforest. Enjoy a seamless check-in, unwind in your elegant surroundings, and take in the serenity of this pristine environment.
As evening falls, indulge in a gourmet dinner before retiring for a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the forest.
Overnight: Nyungwe Forest Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking Experience – Nyungwe Forest National Park
Begin your day with an early, expertly prepared breakfast at your lodge before departing in the pre-dawn hours for an extraordinary wildlife encounter in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Setting out around 5:00 AM, you will travel to the designated tracking area, arriving just as the forest awakens with the first light of day – the optimal time to observe chimpanzees at their most active.
Accompanied by experienced trackers and park rangers, you will venture deep into the ancient rainforest in search of habituated chimpanzee communities. The early morning atmosphere – filled with birdsong, mist drifting through the canopy, and the distant calls of primates — creates a truly immersive and exhilarating experience.
Upon locating the chimpanzees, you will have time to quietly observe their dynamic social interactions: juveniles playing, adults grooming, and the unmistakable calls echoing through the forest. Witnessing these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is both captivating and deeply moving.
In addition to chimpanzees, Nyungwe is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife. During your trek, you may also encounter Angolan colobus monkeys, other primate species, vibrant forest birds, delicate butterflies, and a variety of fascinating flora and fauna unique to the Albertine Rift ecosystem.
After this enriching rainforest experience, return to the refined comfort of Nyungwe Forest Lodge for a leisurely lunch and well-deserved relaxation. Spend the afternoon at ease – perhaps enjoying the lodge’s serene setting overlooking the tea plantations or indulging in quiet reflection after the morning’s adventure.
As evening descends, savor a gourmet dinner before retiring for a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of one of Africa’s most pristine rainforests.
Overnight: Nyungwe Forest Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 8: Nyungwe Forest National Park – Cultural Journey & Return to Kigali
After a leisurely breakfast at your lodge near Nyungwe Forest National Park, you will depart the rainforest and begin your scenic return journey to Rwanda’s vibrant capital, Kigali. The drive offers a final opportunity to admire the country’s rolling hills, terraced landscapes, and picturesque rural communities.
En route, you will visit the renowned National Museum of Rwanda (in Butare/Huye), one of East Africa’s finest cultural institutions. Established with support from the Belgian government in 1989, the museum presents an impressive collection of ethnographic artifacts, traditional regalia, and historical exhibits that provide rich insight into Rwanda’s pre-colonial and contemporary heritage.
You will also explore the serene Botanical Gardens in Huye, a peaceful setting that showcases a variety of indigenous plant species and offers a gentle interlude amid your cultural discoveries.
Continuing northward, you will stop at the historic King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, the former residence of Rwanda’s monarchy. Here, you will gain deeper understanding of the country’s royal traditions, architectural heritage, and cultural evolution. The reconstructed traditional palace and the royal long-horned cattle offer a fascinating glimpse into Rwanda’s regal past.
Thereafter, proceed to Kigali, arriving in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, you will check in at the iconic Hôtel des Mille Collines, renowned for its historic significance, refined hospitality, and panoramic city views.
Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the hotel and a comfortable overnight stay, marking a graceful conclusion to your immersive journey through Rwanda’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
Overnight: Hôtel des Mille Collines, Kigali
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 9: Transfer to Akagera National Park
Following a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Kigali, you will depart in comfort for the scenic journey eastward to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah reserve. As the landscape gradually transitions from rolling hills to open plains, anticipation builds for the exceptional wildlife encounters that await.
Renowned as one of the most diverse and complex savannah ecosystems in both Rwanda and the greater East African region, the park is a mosaic of sweeping grasslands, acacia woodlands, papyrus swamps, and shimmering lakes. This remarkable variety of habitats supports an abundance of wildlife, including the iconic Big Five, elegant antelope species, giraffes, zebras, and one of the richest bird populations in the country.
Upon arrival, you will embark on a serene boat safari along Lake Ihema. This tranquil cruise offers a privileged perspective of the park’s water-dependent wildlife, where pods of hippos wallow in the shallows and Nile crocodiles bask along the shoreline. The lake’s fringes teem with birdlife, from majestic African fish eagles to vibrant kingfishers, providing outstanding photographic opportunities against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery.
As the day draws to a close, you will proceed to the refined comfort of Akagera Game Lodge. Set atop a ridge with panoramic views over the savannah and Lake Ihema, the lodge provides an elegant retreat where you will enjoy a sumptuous dinner and a restful overnight stay, immersed in the tranquil sounds of the African wilderness.
Day 10: Full day game viewing safari in Akagera National Park
Begin your day with an early breakfast at the lodge, as the first light of dawn casts a golden glow across the savannah. You will then depart for an immersive full-day game viewing safari through the diverse landscapes of Akagera National Park, accompanied by an experienced driver-guide whose expert knowledge enhances every sighting.
Traversing rolling plains, acacia-dotted hills, and lakeside wetlands, you will explore the park’s varied ecosystems in search of its remarkable wildlife. Akagera is home to the celebrated Big Five, and throughout the day you may encounter herds of elephants moving gracefully across the grasslands, prides of lions resting in the shade, and formidable buffaloes grazing in open clearings. Giraffes stride elegantly across the horizon, while zebras and antelope species add to the rich tapestry of life that defines this exceptional reserve. The park’s abundant birdlife also offers extraordinary opportunities for observation and photography.
At midday, you will pause at a scenic location to enjoy your carefully prepared picnic lunch, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness. This relaxed interlude allows you to fully absorb the serenity and grandeur of your surroundings before continuing your exploration.
As the afternoon light softens and wildlife activity resumes, you will proceed with further game viewing, capturing unforgettable moments against the park’s breathtaking backdrop. In the early evening, return to the comfort of Akagera Game Lodge, where a refined dinner awaits. Conclude your day with a restful overnight stay, reflecting on the extraordinary encounters experienced in one of East Africa’s most captivating savannah landscapes.
Day 11: Transfer to Kigali & Private City Tour.
After a leisurely breakfast at your lodge, you will depart Akagera National Park and journey back to the vibrant capital of Kigali. The scenic drive offers a final glimpse of Rwanda’s picturesque countryside – rolling hills, rural homesteads, and terraced landscapes that have earned the country its reputation as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Upon arrival, you will embark on a thoughtfully curated and privately guided city tour, designed to provide meaningful insight into Rwanda’s history, resilience, and contemporary culture. A visit to the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial offers a moving and educational experience, honoring the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi while highlighting the nation’s remarkable journey of reconciliation and renewal.
Your exploration continues through Kigali’s dynamic neighborhoods, where you will discover vibrant local craft markets and artisan boutiques showcasing traditional Rwandan artistry – from intricately woven baskets to contemporary handmade jewelry and artwork. Time permitting, your guide may also introduce you to select galleries or cultural landmarks that reflect the capital’s growing reputation as a center of creativity and innovation in East Africa.
Following the tour, you will check in and unwind in refined comfort at the iconic Hôtel des Mille Collines, renowned for its storied history and warm hospitality. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the hotel’s elegant restaurant, savoring a selection of international and locally inspired cuisine. The remainder of the afternoon is at your discretion to relax – perhaps by the poolside terrace or within the tranquil ambiance of your room.
In the evening, delight in a sumptuous dinner at the hotel, bringing your Rwandan journey to a sophisticated and memorable close. Overnight at Hôtel des Mille Collines.
Day 12: Transfer to Kanombe International Airport – Departure
After a final, leisurely breakfast at your hotel, you will have some time to reflect on your remarkable Rwandan journey amidst the tranquil elegance of Kigali. At a time suited to your flight schedule, a private vehicle will transfer you in comfort and style to Kanombe International Airport, ensuring ample time for check-in and airport formalities.
Your Terrain Safaris representative will assist with a seamless departure process, allowing you to depart Rwanda with ease, carrying unforgettable memories of the country’s breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary wildlife encounters, and warm Rwandan hospitality.
Highlights of this 12 Day Rwanda Birding & Primate Tour:
Top Birds To Expect:
Shoebill, Black-billed, Strange, Orange & Weyn’s Weaver, Lesser Jacana, White-crested, Black-billed & Rwenzori Turaco, Mountain Illadopsis, Carruther’s, Tabora & Trilling Cisticola, White-crested Helmet-shrike, White-throated & Cinnamon-chested Bee-Eater, Sabine’s & Mottled Spinetail, Brown Twinspot, Yellow-footed, Blue-crested, Chestnut-capped, Yellow-eyed Black, Forest & Sooty Flycatchers, Ituri Batis, African Crowned Eagle, Spotted & Joyful Greenbul, Forest Robin, African Dwarf & Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, Vereaux’s Eagle-Owl, Collard Pratincole,
Also expect species like; the Papyrus Gonolek, Yellow-billed, Hairy-breasted & Yellow-spotted Barbet, Pink-footed Puffback, Bar-tailed & Narina Trogon, Yellow-crested, Brown-eared & Buff-spotted Woodpecker, Mountain-masked, Chestnut-throated & Rwenzori Apalis, African & Grauer’s Broadbill, Rwenzori Double-collared, Northern Double-collared, Purple-breasted & Regal Sunbird, Narrow-tailed, Chestnut-winged, Stuhlumann’s, Waller’s & Sharp’s Starling, Black-faced Rufous, Grauer’s Rush, Neumanni’s Warbler, Ayre’s Hawk-Eagles, Equatorial Akalat, Lagden’s, Dohert’s & Bocage’s Bush-shrike.
Safari Summary
Tour Duration: 12 Days & 11 Nights
Departure / Return Location: Kanombe, Rwanda
Destinations on Tour:
- Kigali
- Volcanoes Forest national park
- Lake Kivu
- Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Akagera National Park
- Kigali
Terrain Safaris Itinerary
Included:
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Here are some of our tours; Rwanda Primate Tour, Rwanda Bird Watching Trip, Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes Forest, Birding In Nyungwe Forest & Birding In Akagera Park.
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