7-Day Rwanda Primate Safari

Overview

This remarkable journey through Rwanda highlights the country’s lush landscapes and extraordinary primate experiences. Track chimpanzees in the ancient Nyungwe Forest, walk high above the canopy for a unique rainforest perspective, and come face-to-face with mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Scenic drives along Lake Kivu, cultural encounters, and time in Kigali add depth to the adventure, creating a powerful blend of wildlife, history, and breathtaking scenery.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Welcome to Rwanda

On arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly received by your Benson Safaris guide and transferred into the heart of Rwanda’s vibrant capital widely regarded as the cleanest city in Africa.

Your overnight stay is at a stylish boutique hotel in the upscale Kiyovu suburb. If time allows, enjoy dinner at the rooftop restaurant with sweeping views over Kigali’s glowing skyline a perfect introduction to the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Day 2: Scenic Journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, depart for Nyungwe Forest in southern Rwanda. This drive is a cultural and scenic experience, passing through rolling hills, traditional villages, and vast tea plantations.

En route, visit the historic Royal Palace in Nyanza for insight into Rwanda’s pre-colonial monarchy.

Arrive at your lodge set high on a ridge overlooking the rainforest canopy and, on clear days, Lake Kivu in the distance. Enjoy dinner beside the fireplace as you prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk Experience

Rise before dawn for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe Forest. Guided by expert trackers, walk through ancient rainforest while listening for the distinctive calls that lead you to these energetic primates.

After lunch at the lodge, return to the forest for the famous canopy walkway suspended high above the treetops and offering a breathtaking perspective of the rainforest and its birdlife.

Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park via Lake Kivu

Today’s journey takes you north along the spectacular shoreline of Lake Kivu. Stop in one of the lakeside towns for lunch and enjoy the fresh breeze and panoramic views.

Arrive in Musanze, at the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes, and check into your charming lodge surrounded by lush gardens and dramatic volcanic scenery.

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter

After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for briefing before beginning your gorilla trek.

Hike through bamboo forests and mist-covered slopes in search of your assigned gorilla family. When you finally encounter them, you will spend one extraordinary hour observing their natural behaviour a deeply moving wildlife experience and one of Africa’s greatest highlights.

Day 6: Golden Monkey Trek & Cultural Experience – Return to Kigali

This morning, return to the forest for golden monkey tracking. These rare and playful primates are endemic to the Albertine Rift and are a delight to photograph.

Later, visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village where former poachers now share traditional Rwandan heritage through dance, storytelling, and hands-on cultural activities.

In the afternoon, drive back to Kigali.

Day 7: Kigali City Tour & Departure

After a relaxed breakfast, enjoy a guided city tour including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial a powerful and educational experience that provides deep insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience.

You will also have time to explore a local craft market before your transfer to the airport for your departure flight.