Safari

    4 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and Lake Kivu Safari

    • Rwanda
    • 4 days

    Overview

    Discover Rwanda’s highlights with a visit to Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu. Track endangered Mountain Gorillas and Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes, then unwind by the serene shores of Lake Kivu.

    Best time to visit: July - August

    Duration

    4 days

    Map Overview

    • Kigali
    • Volcanoes National Park
    • Lake Kivu
    • Kigali

    Places to Visit

    NyanzaNyanza
    Volcanoes National ParkVolcanoes National Park

    Day by Day Itinerary

    Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by our tours representative, outside the airport arrivals section and transferred to your hotel.

    Accommodation: Kigali Serena Lodge/Mille Collines Hotel
    Meals: Breakfast

    Breakfast at your hotel
    Enjoy a City Tour of Kigali. (Cost of city tour included)

    The history of Rwanda dates back centuries, Kigali has been a part of it for 100 years. Founded in 1907 as a German settlement, Kigali did not become the capital until Rwanda’s independence in 1962 when it replaced the colonial seat of power in Butare.

    Visit old Kigali and the craft centres then visit the genocide memorial site. Learn about Rwanda’s history from pre-colonial times to the 1994 genocide; learn about other genocides in the world and how this country has dealt with that past. Tour more and see the new developments in Rwanda; the recovery has been incredible, a testament to humankind’s resilience.

    Lunch in Kigali.

    Later, depart Kigali and drive to Ruhengeri. Approximately 2.5 hrs arriving in the early evening at the Volcanoes National Park.

    Ruhengeri is the base for Gorilla trekking at the Parc National des Volcans. The town is located only 25km from Uganda boarder and is relatively a small city of about 70,000 people. The constant flow of humanity is
    quite remarkable. The Town has great views of the surrounding volcanoes. People are very friendly here and although a former Belgian colony (and thus French-speaking), many people speak English here. It is
    Approximately 2.5hrs drive from Kigali to the Volcanoes National park.

    Accommodation: Bisate Lodge/Virunga Lodge/Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge/Bishops Lodge/Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Early breakfast.

    0620 hrs: Transfer to the Volcanoes National Park HQs for the gorilla trek.

    0700 hrs: Briefing by your trackers then drive to the trail head for the start of your amazing Gorilla Tracking adventure. Porters may be hired for the trek to carry your backpack and gear. The cost is ten USD per person/per day. We advise that you utilize this service.

    Your trek starts in the cultivated foothills of the Virunga’s offering stirring views in all directions. When it enters the national park, trekkers will be immersed in the mysterious intimacy of the rainforest, alive with the colorful bird calls, chattering golden monkeys, littered with fresh spoor of the mountains’ elusive buffalo and elephant. Through gaps in the canopy, the magnificent peaks are glimpsed, among the highest in Africa yet easily accessible, beckon an ascent.

    Weaving through overhanging vines, moss-covered hagenia trees and giant lobelias that thrive in the tropical climate, our experienced trackers, who have spent their entire lives in or close to this forest, soon bring us up close with one of the Gorilla Families.

    Upon sighting the gorillas, you will stay with them for a magical hour as they go about their daily life, feeding, playing, resting; raising their young. Coming face to face with a giant silverback must truly be one of the greatest wildlife experiences on earth!

    After the trek, rejoin your driver Guide for a transfer to your lodge/hotel for lunch.
    Afternoon, drive to Lake Kivu for overnight.

    Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena/ Lake Kivu Gorilla Hotels
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Spend the morning at leisure on the shores of Lake Kivu, with optional leisure activities. (Cost of optional activities offered separately)

    Lunch at your hotel.

    Afternoon, drive back to Kigali – with onward transfer to the airport for your evening outbound flight. Flight after 1900Hrs Recommended. (Cost of flight not included)

    Accommodation: None
    Meals: None

    Inclusions

    • All activities (unless labeled as optional)
    • All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
    • A professional driver/guide
    • All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
    • All Taxes/VAT
    • Roundtrip airport transfer
    • rinking water on all days

    Exclusions

    • All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
    • International flights (from/to home)
    • Tips (tipping guideline US$20.00 pp per day)
    • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
    • Alcoholic drinks
    • Services not mentioned in the program
    • Items of a personal nature

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What’s Included and Excluded in Every Tour?

    The inclusions and exclusions vary by tour. Each tour has its specific set of inclusions and exclusions. Please refer to the individual tour page to see what is specifically included in that tour.

    What Are Your Cancellation Terms?

    Our cancellation terms are standard within the industry. For more information on our cancellation policy, please visit the designated page.

    What Vaccines and Health Requirements Are Needed?

    The requirements vary depending on the country and nationality. For the most accurate information, please visit the page specific to your destination and consult the corresponding embassy page for the latest information.

    Can I Choose Other Accommodation Than What’s Specified?

    Yes, if you have a special preference, let us know, and we will offer alternatives from our vast network of company-owned and partner accommodations. Booking with us allows you to enjoy discounted rates as we have special agreements with our partners.

    Will My Mobile/Cellular Phone Work During the Tour?

    Yes, though signal strength may vary in different areas.

    What Activities Can My Kids Do While on a Safari?

    A safari offers an enriching experience for children, allowing them to observe animals in their natural habitat. Some camps and lodges offer amenities for children, such as playrooms and pools, though these are not universally available. We suggest bringing activities that your children enjoy.

    What Payment Methods Do You Accept?

    We accept various payment methods, including card payments. For more information on acceptable payment methods, please visit our payment information page.

    What If I Have Special Needs or Requirements?

    We strive to cater to all requirements, such as providing wheelchair-friendly accommodation or rooms on the first floor if stairs are a challenge. Please communicate with us in advance about your needs.

    What Are the Road Conditions Like?

    Most safari parks have bumpy but manageable roads, with some roads being paved. Generally, guests do not view this as a problem.

    Is Electricity Available 24 Hours in the Lodges and Camps?

    Most standard camps and lodges are equipped with generators, so electricity is generally available 24 hours. However, some interruptions may occur but are typically not a significant concern for guests.

    What About My Special Diet and Food Preferences?

    We cater to all diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, among others. Please inform us in advance about your dietary preferences.

    Is Tipping Required?

    Tipping is not required but is recommended. The amount varies by country, but you should tip according to what you feel is appropriate.

    Take Off on a Memorable Safari Experience and Explore the Wild Right Away!

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