7-Day Rwanda Primate Safari

The 7-day Rwanda Primate safari organized by Wild Planet Safaris offers an immersive and expertly guided journey into the heart of one of Africa’s most beautiful and biodiverse countries. This carefully curated itinerary focuses on Rwanda’s rich primate life, taking you deep into lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes to encounter chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and the iconic mountain gorillas.

Wild Planet Safaris actively designs this safari for travelers who love primates, nature, and cultural experiences. The journey combines wildlife encounters with scenic landscapes, relaxing lakeside moments, and meaningful cultural interactions. The tour begins and ends in Kigali and covers two of Rwanda’s most important conservation areas—Nyungwe National Park and Volcanoes National Park—as well as the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu.

By the end of this safari, Wild Planet Safaris ensures that you experience Rwanda’s top highlights while gaining a deep appreciation of its wildlife, landscapes, and conservation efforts.

Safari Overview

Wild Planet Safaris structures this 7-day safari to include:

• Kigali city tour and cultural experiences
• Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest
• Canopy walk above the rainforest
• Relaxation and activities at Lake Kivu
• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Golden monkey tracking
• Visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
• Cultural experience at Gorilla Guardians Village

This journey balances adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.

About the Key Destinations

Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park stands as one of Africa’s oldest and largest Afro-montane forests. Wild Planet Safaris highlights this park as a primate haven, home to over 13 species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, baboons, and grey-cheeked mangabeys.

The park also features waterfalls, rich birdlife, and a famous canopy walkway that offers breathtaking aerial views of the forest.

Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu ranks among Africa’s Great Lakes and forms a natural border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Wild Planet Safaris includes this destination for relaxation and scenic beauty.

The lake is known for its unique methane gas reserves beneath the surface, but it remains safe for tourism activities such as swimming, canoeing, and boat cruises.

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s most famous conservation area. Wild Planet Safaris brings you here for unforgettable encounters with mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

The park also features the Virunga volcanoes and important conservation sites linked to Dian Fossey.

Detailed 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest

Wild Planet Safaris begins your adventure with a pickup from Kigali International Airport or your hotel in Kigali. Your professional guide welcomes you and provides a detailed briefing about the safari.

You then embark on a scenic 5–6 hour drive to Nyungwe National Park. Along the way, you enjoy Rwanda’s iconic rolling hills and countryside landscapes.

Upon arrival, Wild Planet Safaris transfers you to your lodge for check-in, relaxation, and dinner.

Accommodation Options:

• Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe House
• Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hotel
• Budget: Gisakura Guest House

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk

Wild Planet Safaris starts your day early with breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee trekking.

Guided by experienced rangers, you trek into the forest to locate chimpanzees. Once you find them, you observe their behavior, social interactions, and movements while following strict safety guidelines.

In addition to chimpanzees, Wild Planet Safaris ensures you encounter other primates and bird species along the way.

After lunch at the lodge, you proceed for the famous canopy walk. Suspended high above the forest, this gives you a unique aerial perspective of the rainforest and its wildlife.

You return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Transfer to Lake Kivu and Boat Cruise

Wild Planet Safaris allows you a relaxed morning before departing for Lake Kivu.

Upon arrival, you check into your lakeside lodge and enjoy lunch with stunning views of the water.

In the afternoon, Wild Planet Safaris organizes a boat cruise to explore nearby islands and enjoy the serene environment. You can also swim or simply relax by the lake.

Accommodation Options:

• Luxury: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
• Mid-range: Paradise Malahide
• Budget: Palm Resort Gardens

Day 4: Lake Kivu Exploration and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Wild Planet Safaris begins the day with a guided tour around Lake Kivu. You visit fishing villages, interact with locals, and observe daily life along the lakeshore.

After the tour, you travel north to Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival, you check into your lodge and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Guardians Village

This is one of the highlights of your safari with Wild Planet Safaris. You wake up early and head to the park headquarters for a briefing.

You then trek into the forest to find one of the habituated gorilla families. The trek may take several hours, but the moment you encounter the gorillas makes every step worthwhile.

You spend one hour observing these gentle giants, taking photos, and learning about their behavior.

In the afternoon, Wild Planet Safaris takes you to the Gorilla Guardians Village. Here, you enjoy traditional dances, cultural performances, and insights into Rwandan heritage.

Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking and Ellen DeGeneres Campus Visit

Wild Planet Safaris organizes another exciting day with golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park.

Golden monkeys are rare and lively primates, often seen jumping through bamboo forests. You will have plenty of opportunities for photography.

Later, you visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. This conservation center provides valuable insights into gorilla research and protection efforts.

Day 7: Return to Kigali and City Tour

Wild Planet Safaris concludes your safari with a return journey to Kigali.

Upon arrival, you enjoy a guided city tour, including visits to:

• Kigali Genocide Memorial
• Local markets
• Artisan shops
• Former Presidential Palace

After the tour, Wild Planet Safaris transfers you to the airport or your hotel, marking the end of your safari.

Why Choose Wild Planet Safaris?

Wild Planet Safaris actively delivers exceptional safari experiences by focusing on:

• Expert local guides with deep knowledge
• Comfortable and reliable transport
• Carefully selected lodges
• Seamless itinerary planning
• Commitment to conservation and responsible tourism

Final Thoughts

This 7-day Rwanda safari with Wild Planet Safaris offers a perfect combination of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation. From tracking chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park to encountering mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and relaxing at Lake Kivu, every moment creates lasting memories.

Wild Planet Safaris ensures that your journey through Rwanda is not only enjoyable but also meaningful, leaving you with a deeper connection to Africa’s natural beauty and wildlife.

End of Safari