Prepare for an extraordinary journey into the heart of Rwanda’s rich biodiversity with Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours. This 9 Days Gorillas Chimpanzees and Golden Monkeys Rwanda Tour is designed for the ultimate primate enthusiast, offering an immersive experience with the country’s most cherished inhabitants: mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys. From the bustling capital of Kigali to the ancient rainforests of Nyungwe and the volcanic highlands of the Virunga Massif, this itinerary is a testament to Rwanda’s remarkable beauty and conservation success. You will traverse stunning landscapes and stay in some of Africa’s most exclusive lodges, where personalized service and opulent comfort blend seamlessly with the natural world. This is more than a tour; it is a life-changing adventure that will leave you with a profound connection to nature and a deep appreciation for the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, a private Fruits of Hope guide and chauffeur will be waiting to provide a seamless transfer to your luxury hotel. The afternoon is dedicated to a private, guided tour of Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest and safest capitals. This tour offers a poignant and insightful look into the city’s history and its incredible journey of reconciliation and progress. You will visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful place of remembrance, and explore local craft markets and art galleries, showcasing the country’s vibrant creative spirit. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy the amenities of your upscale accommodation.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After a leisurely breakfast, you will begin a scenic drive south towards Nyungwe Forest National Park. The journey itself is a highlight, as you travel through the picturesque landscape of Rwanda’s iconic rolling hills and lush tea plantations. You will have opportunities to stop for photos and immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery. Arriving at your luxurious lodge, which is situated on the edge of the ancient rainforest, you will settle in and have the rest of the day at your leisure. Unwind, enjoy a spa treatment, or simply take in the magnificent views of the forest canopy from your private balcony.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel, Nyungwe Forest Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking & Canopy Walk
An early start is required today for an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking experience. You will be led by expert park rangers deep into the dense forest, home to one of Africa’s largest populations of chimpanzees. The trek offers a unique opportunity to observe these intelligent and energetic primates in their natural habitat as they swing through the trees. In the afternoon, you will embark on the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walk. This spectacular suspension bridge, high above the forest floor, provides an incredible aerial perspective of the canopy and its rich biodiversity.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel, Nyungwe Forest Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Colobus Monkey Trekking – Transfer to Lake Kivu
This morning, you will have another thrilling primate encounter, trekking to see the stunning black-and-white colobus monkeys, which are known to live in large troops. Watching these acrobatic primates is a truly captivating experience. Afterwards, you will depart for Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. The drive is scenic, winding along the coastline with breathtaking views. You will arrive at your luxury lakeside resort in the afternoon, where you can relax by the pool, take a dip in the lake, or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Cormoran Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Lake Kivu Relaxation – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking Lake Kivu. The morning is at your leisure to enjoy the resort’s amenities. You may choose to go for a kayak on the lake, take a boat trip to one of the picturesque islands, or simply relax on the private beach. In the afternoon, you will be driven north to Volcanoes National Park, the home of the mountain gorillas. The landscape changes dramatically, from the serene lakeside to the majestic, mist-shrouded peaks of the Virunga volcanoes. Arrive at your lodge, an exclusive sanctuary of luxury and comfort at the base of the mountains.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: The Ultimate Gorilla Trekking Experience
This is the pinnacle of your tour. Following an early breakfast, you will be taken to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, you will venture into the bamboo forests and lush slopes of the Virunga volcanoes. The trek can be physically demanding, but the reward is immeasurable. Once you find the gorilla family, you will have a magical and awe-inspiring hour to observe and photograph these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. This is a truly humbling and unforgettable experience. Afterwards, you will return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest and an evening of celebrating your incredible encounter.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 7: Golden Monkey Trekking
Today offers a different, but equally rewarding, primate encounter. After an early breakfast, you will head back to the park headquarters for a briefing before setting off to track the playful and endangered golden monkeys. These primates, with their stunning golden fur, are a joy to watch as they leap through the bamboo forests. The trek is generally less strenuous than the gorilla trek, but no less exciting. The afternoon is at your leisure to relax, enjoy a massage, or take a village walk to learn about local Rwandan life.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 8: Dian Fossey Hike – Transfer back to Kigali
After a final breakfast in the highlands, you have the option to embark on a guided hike to the former Karisoke Research Center, the final resting place of the legendary primatologist Dian Fossey and her favorite gorilla, Digit. This hike offers a profound look into the history of gorilla conservation and the sacrifices made to protect them. Afterwards, you will begin your scenic drive back to Kigali. Arrive at your luxurious city hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner, reminiscing about the incredible primate encounters and stunning landscapes of your Rwandan adventure.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 9: Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final walk around the city. Your private guide and chauffeur will then transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your departure, bringing an end to your unforgettable luxury primate tour with Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 9 Days Gorillas Chimpanzees and Golden Monkeys Rwanda Tour.
The 9 Days Gorillas Chimpanzees and Golden Monkeys Rwanda Tour includes;
- Airport Transfers.
- 1 Gorilla Permit per person.
- 1 Chimpanzee Permit per person.
- 1 Golden Monkey Permit per person.
- 1 Colobus Monkey Permit per person.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Tour guide allowances.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
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.