Day 1 – Discover Captivating Kigali
Jambo, friends! Our journey begins in Rwanda’s bustling capital city Kigali. Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll meet your experienced safari guide who will whisk you away to start exploring this modern metro. First up, get ready to barter like a local at Kigali’s lively markets. They sell juicy pineapples, handwoven baskets, and everything in between! Don’t forget to pick up a colorful souvenir or two for the folks back home.
Next, we’ll visit the sobering Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about Rwanda’s tragic history and honor the victims. In 1994, over 1 million Rwandans were tragically killed in just 100 days. It’s a somber yet important stop to understand the past and appreciate how far Rwanda has come.
After working up an appetite, we’ll grab a tasty traditional Rwandan lunch – their cuisine is so flavorful! Swing by the fancy Parliament Building, the wedding-cake shaped Kigali Conference Centre, and the stately King’s Palace Museum. Then it’s off to drive through Rwanda’s countryside, affectionately called “Land of a Thousand Hills.” With rolling green slopes as far as the eye can see, this description feels spot on! We’ll arrive at our comfortable safari lodge nestled near the base of the Volcanoes National Park. After settling in, enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local dishes as your guide preps you for tomorrow’s epic gorilla trekking adventure!
Day 2 – Gorilla Trekking Day
Rise and shine bright and early, friends – today’s the big day to trek mountain gorillas! After fueling up on breakfast, we’ll drive to Kinigi Park Headquarters to join our assigned gorilla family. The group will include up to 8 travelers, an armed scout, a park ranger, and a porter to assist carrying your day pack. Got your hiking boots on? Let’s do this!
The trek itself can take 2-6 hours depending on where the gorilla family is that day. They roam wild in the 160 square miles of bamboo forest and alpine vegetation. Stay close to your guide as the hike can be strenuous, traversing steep muddy trails and thick rainforest. Your efforts will all be worth it once you spot the magnificent gorillas! You’ll be allowed to quietly observe them from a distance for one awe-inspiring hour. Witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is truly an once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don’t forget your camera – photos are allowed (no flash of course) just no selfies with the gorillas.
After your incredible encounter, hike back to rejoin the driver who will be waiting for our exhausted yet thrilled crew! Relax those weary muscles this afternoon at the lodge. You deserve it after that epic 6-8 hour round trip trek. Now that was a day to remember!
Day 3 – Golden Monkeys & Lake Kivu
After yesterday’s big adventure, today we’ll take it easier with a trek to find majestic golden monkeys. These adorable and energetic primates swing from branch to branch high up in the volcanoes’ bamboo forests. Their bright golden fur glows in the sunlight – an incredible sight!
Later, we’ll drive to the shores of stunning Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the water’s edge or partake in watersports like swimming, kayaking, or boating on the blue lake. For dinner, indulge in a mouthwatering meal of freshly-caught lake fish. Now that’s what we call a perfect day in paradise!
Day 4 – Dian Fossey Trek & Kigali
For our last full day, we’ll start with an early morning hike up to the gravesite of famed primatologist Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life’s work to protecting Rwanda’s gorillas. She was murdered in 1985 and buried alongside the majestic mountains and gorillas she loved. Pay your respects by leaving a flower and admiring the stunning views!
After an emotional morning, we’ll make the drive back to Kigali City in the afternoon. We saved the best for last – experience Kigali’s buzzing energy and soak up the urban vibe. Your guide will give you an insider’s tour of the trendiest spots for dinner, drinks, shopping, and people watching. Get your dancing shoes on and experience Kigali’s legendary nightlife!
Day 5 – End Of Safari
It’s departure day, but first we have time for one last delicious Rwandan breakfast and stroll through town. Shop for any last souvenirs, snap some final photos, and exchange contact details with your new friends. It’s been an epic adventure we’ll never forget! Our guide will then transport you to the airport for your flight home. Asante sana (thank you very much), Rwanda – until we meet again!
