This immersive 6 Days Rwanda Primates and Dian Fossey Tomb Hike by Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours is perfect for travellers seeking meaningful encounters with Rwanda’s primates and a deeper understanding of the region’s remarkable conservation legacy. The tour features thrilling chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, intimate moments with endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, and a guided hike to the tomb of Dr. Dian Fossey, whose groundbreaking work helped save these gentle giants from extinction. All experiences are designed with comfort in mind, offering upscale lodges, fine dining and seamless service throughout the journey.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport, where your private driver-guide from Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours greets you. After a brief introduction to your luxury safari, embark on a guided tour of Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to gain insight into the country’s resilience, explore the colorful Nyamirambo Market for local crafts, and enjoy a gourmet lunch at a top restaurant like The Bistro, known for its fusion cuisine. In the afternoon, journey 2.5 hours to Volcanoes National Park, passing rolling hills and tea plantations. Arrive at your lodge by late afternoon, where you’ll check in, relax, and enjoy a welcome dinner featuring organic, locally sourced ingredients. This evening, a cultural performance by local dancers sets the tone for your Rwandan adventure.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Rise early for a hearty breakfast before heading to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi for a 7:00 AM briefing. Accompanied by expert rangers, embark on a thrilling gorilla trekking adventure through bamboo forests and misty slopes. The trek, ranging from 1 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location, rewards you with an hour in the presence of these gentle giants, observing their social interactions. A private porter assists with your gear, ensuring comfort. After the trek, return to your lodge for a sumptuous lunch and an afternoon of relaxation, perhaps with a spa treatment or a guided nature walk around the lodge grounds. Dinner is a candlelit affair, paired with fine wines.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Cultural Immersion
After breakfast, return to the park headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey trekking, a lighter and equally enchanting primate experience. These endangered monkeys, known for their vibrant golden fur, inhabit the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. The trek, lasting 1 to 3 hours, offers a playful encounter with these agile primates, guided by knowledgeable rangers. Return to your lodge for a gourmet lunch, then spend the afternoon at the Gorilla Guardians Village (formerly Iby’iwacu Cultural Village). Engage with local communities, learn traditional dances, and visit a replica of a king’s palace. Your evening concludes with a private dinner featuring Rwandan delicacies, hosted at your lodge.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Dian Fossey Tomb Hike and Karisoke Research Centre
Today, pay homage to Dian Fossey, the legendary primatologist who dedicated her life to mountain gorilla conservation. After breakfast, drive to the park headquarters for a 7:00 AM briefing, then embark on a 1- to 3-hour hike to the Karisoke Research Centre, nestled between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi at 2,900–3,000 meters. The trail winds through Hagenia-Hypericum forests, offering sightings of birds like the Rwenzori turaco and primates like vervet monkeys. At the site, visit Fossey’s grave alongside her beloved gorilla, Digit, and learn about her anti-poaching efforts. Return to your lodge for a leisurely lunch and an afternoon at the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, exploring ongoing conservation research. Enjoy a private sundowner with Virunga Mountain views before a gourmet dinner.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Mount Bisoke Crater Hike and Relaxation
After breakfast, set out for an invigorating hike to the crater lake atop Mount Bisoke, a 3- to 4-hour trek through lush bamboo and hagenia forests. The trail, moderately challenging due to muddy conditions, offers chances to spot golden monkeys and stunning views of the Virunga Mountains. At the summit, marvel at the emerald crater lake before descending. A packed gourmet picnic lunch is served en route. The afternoon is yours to unwind at your lodge, perhaps with a massage or a dip in a heated pool. Your final evening in Volcanoes National Park features a farewell dinner with live music, celebrating your Rwandan journey.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: Transfer to Kigali – Departure
Savor a leisurely breakfast at your lodge, soaking in the final views of the Virunga Mountains. Your private driver-guide transfers you back to Kigali, a 2.5-hour scenic drive. If time permits, visit the Inema Art Center to browse contemporary Rwandan art or stop for a coffee at a boutique café like Question Coffee, known for its farm-to-cup brews. Arrive at Kigali International Airport for your departure, carrying memories of Rwanda’s primates, landscapes, and Fossey’s enduring legacy. Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours ensures a seamless farewell, with optional assistance for last-minute souvenir shopping.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 6 Days Rwanda Primates and Dian Fossey Tomb Hike.
The 6 Days Rwanda Primates and Dian Fossey Tomb Hike includes;
- Private transfers in a luxury 4WD vehicle.
- Gorilla trekking permit ($1,500 per person), golden monkey trekking permit ($100 per person), and Dian Fossey tomb hike permit ($75 per person).
- Expert driver-guide and park rangers.
- All meals and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Accommodation as per selected category.
- Cultural and conservation activities.
- Bottled water, snacks, and walking sticks during treks.
However, the tour cost excludes; Visa fees, international air fare, personal shopping bills, souvenirs, tips to local guides, personal travel insurance, items not listed as included in the cost.