Overview
This thrilling itinerary encompasses Rwanda’s prime cultural and natural attractions. Hone your bargaining skills at bustling markets, shop for indigenous art, and visit the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial. Venture into Nyungwe Forest National Park to observe elusive chimpanzees in their natural surroundings. Conclude your journey with an expedition to Volcanoes National Park, where the legendary Dian Fossey worked tirelessly to protect the endangered mountain gorillas.
Highlights
- Discover Kigali's welcoming ambiance, seek bargains at Kirimonko Market, and peruse local art.
- Trek through Nyungwe Forest National Park for an intimate encounter with a chimpanzee family.
- Explore Volcanoes National Park, visit Dian Fossey's research station, and her final resting place.
- Gain profound insights into the 1994 genocide through memorials and museums.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Kigali City Tower in the Pension Plaza
Welcome to Kigali! A tour representative will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel in the city. Settle in and enjoy a well-deserved rest
Day 2 :
Full day Kigali City Tour – Kigali Genocide Memorial
Kigali, nestled among verdant hills, is a thriving and tranquil city. Start your Rwandan adventure by exploring this vibrant metropolis, known for its outstanding museums, burgeoning music scene, and exquisite dining. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, commemorating the victims of the 1994 genocide, and the Inema Arts Center, a beacon for Rwanda's artistic community. Continue to the Presidential Museum, offering insights into Rwanda's history, and conclude your day at the bustling Kimironko Market.
Nyamata Genocide Memorial: Situated in a former church 18 miles south of Kigali, this memorial honors the 50,000 lives lost during the 1994 genocide. The preserved church, with its bullet holes, bloodstains, and piles of clothing and identity cards, serves as a stark reminder of the horrific events.
Kigali Genocide Memorial Center: This center commemorates the victims of the 1994 genocide and invites international visitors to reflect on its significance.
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional African meal at a local restaurant.
Kimironko Market: Engage with local vendors and test your bargaining skills at one of Kigali's largest markets.
Gahaya Gifted Hands: Visit this training facility and marketplace where women affected by the 1994 war sell their traditional weavings and jewelry. Some items are even sold overseas at stores like Macy's in the U.S.
Inema Arts Center: Founded in 2012 by self-taught painters Emmanuel Nkuranga and Innocent Nkurunziza, this center showcases Rwanda's artistic talent and offers souvenirs, art, crafts, and jewelry.
Presidential Museum: Located next to Kigali International Airport, this palace, home to two former Rwandan presidents, also marks the site where President Habyarimana's plane was shot down in 1994.
Camp Kigali Memorial: This site marks the murder of ten Belgian UN peacekeepers at the onset of the 1994 genocide, with ten stone columns representing each fallen soldier.
Natural History Museum: Also known as Kandt House, this museum is dedicated to Rwanda's natural history and ecological richness.
Campaign Against Genocide Museum: Opened in 2017, this museum in the Parliament building educates visitors on the Rwandan Patriotic Front's role in ending the 1994 genocide.
After your city tour, journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a biological wonderland with old Mahogany trees, giant ferns, orchids, and other epiphytes. Check into your hotel and enjoy the lush jungle views.
Day 3 :
Chimpanzee Tracking
A Young Chimp in Nyungwe National Forest
Nyungwe Forest National Park is renowned for its 13 primate species, with chimpanzee treks being particularly popular. Starting from the lodge at 4:00 AM, you'll trek deep into the forest with a guide to find a chimp family. After locating them, you'll have one hour to observe these playful, curious, and human-like creatures.
Return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon visit to the Gisakura tea estate.
Day 4 :
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park via Kibuye and Gisenyi, Dian Fossey Museum
A Female Mountain Gorilla Carrying Her Baby
Travel to Volcanoes National Park and enjoy lunch at your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Dian Fossey Museum, dedicated to the American naturalist known for her efforts to protect mountain gorillas. Hike from the research station to her cabin and grave, a journey that takes approximately 1.5 hours and requires a moderate level of fitness. Keep an eye out for forest hogs, elephants, and a variety of primates and birds.
Return to the lodge for dinner.
Day 5 :
Bisoke Hike in Volcanoes National Park
Lake Inside the Bisoke Volcano Crater
Begin your day early with a 5:00 AM start for a hike up Mt. Bisoke, an active volcano. The half-day trek to the summit requires comfortable hiking boots and a packed lunch. After your descent, relax at the lodge.
Day 6 :
Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Kigali
A Young Golden Monkey with Her Mother on the Volcanic Slopes
Start your morning with a 6:00 AM breakfast before an 8:00 AM hike. Observe one of the two habituated groups of Golden Monkeys that reside at the foot of Mt. Sabyinyo. You will have one hour to spend with these fascinating primates.
Return to the lodge for lunch and then transfer to Kigali for your departing flight. Safe travels!
Day 7 :
Leisure Day in Kigali
Spend your final day in Kigali at your leisure.