Rwanda is the definitive destination for a gorilla and chimpanzee trekking adventure. Often referred to as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’ or the ‘Switzerland of Africa’, it’s a world of volcanic peaks, serene lakes and endless forested slopes sheltering some of the last remaining mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in the world.
‘Trekking’ refers to venturing into the jungle to follow and observe these gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitat. It’s a humbling experience and one of the greatest privileges on earth to come face-to-face with these primates who share 98-99% of human DNA.
For a life-changing experience in Rwanda, look no further than our bucket-list tour.
Tour Duration:
12 Nights
Perfect for:
Adventurers, romantic getaways and solo travellers
1. First Stop: Rwanda’s Bustling City Centre, Kigali
Travelling to the capital of Rwanda might seem daunting to some, but it’s actually one of the safest and most attractive capital cities in Africa.
Expect colourful markets, friendly locals, and an up-and-coming art scene. If you love your caffeine kick in the morning, you’ll be happy to know that Rwanda produces some of the best coffee in the world.
Why We Love It
- A thriving hub of culture, history and activities as well as close to popular tourist sites
- The Kigali Museum and Genocide Memorial will give you insight to Rwanda’s history
- Visiting the lively markets and shops
Our Favourite Places to Stay
- Culture and Cuisine: The Retreat by Heaven
- Enchanting Oasis: Kigali Serena Hotel
- Colourful Design: Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre
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Next Up: Big 5 Safari, Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s leading safari destination and the only park in the country that’s home to the Big 5. It also has an inspiring history, as it went from almost being almost completely depleted of its animals, trees and wild savannah. This was due to the effect of the 1994 Genocide in Rwanda when refugees returning to the country resorted to hunting the wildlife, cutting down the trees for timber, and using the savannah for livestock feed.
Today, it’s Central Africa’s largest protected wetland and a wildlife sanctuary.
Why We Love It
- Big 5 safari destination
- A real paradise for birders, with over 482 species
- Black Rhinos were reintroduced after a decade-long absence
Our Favourite Places to Stay
- Wildlife Wonderland: Magashi Camp
- Luxury Eco-Lodge: Ruzizi Tented Lodge
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Next Up: Gorilla Trekking Adventure, Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is one of the best places for mountain gorilla trekking because it’s home to 400 endangered mountain gorillas. It’s also the most accessible as it’s located only a two-hour drive away from Rwanda’s capital.
This park is where Dian Fossey did her studies of mountain gorillas and is the setting for the book and film ‘Gorillas in the Mist’.
There’s a multitude of other wildlife you can look forward to seeing. For instance, the golden monkey as well as elusive elephant and buffalo herds.
Why We Love It
- Over half of the world’s mountain gorillas live here
- Other primates you can see while trekking include golden monkeys, vervet monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys and more
- Over 180 bird species
Our Favourite Places to Stay
- Amphitheatrical Appeal: Bisate Lodge
- Volcanic Views: Virunga Lodge
- Rainforest Retreat: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
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Last Stop: Chimpanzee Central, Nyungwe Forest National Park
Tea plantations, never-ending forest, and vocal birdlife, Nyungwe National Park truly is an enchanting place located in a unique location between the Nile and Congo Rivers. It’s home to a group of habituated chimpanzees, as well as other primates including the Ruwenzori colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys, as well as 85 mammals and 310 bird species.
The biodiversity of flora and fauna is also incredible, with over 1,050 plant species, including 200 orchid species. Those who are a bit more adventurous can go over the 200-metre long and 40-metre high suspended canopy walkway in order to enjoy a different view of the park.
Why We Love It
- Home to 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees
- East Africa’s highest canopy walk can be found here
- Biodiversity of flora and fauna, as well as over 85 species of mammals
Our Favourite Place to Stay
- Heart of the Jungle: One&Only Nyungwe House
Why You’ll Love this Tour
- You get to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, as well as the Big 5 and other wildlife – all in one trip
- Ideal for birding enthusiasts because of an incredibly diverse birdlife
- Breathtaking natural landscapes
We know Africa inside out
To experience the best gorilla and chimpanzee trekking adventure, contact one of our Travel Experts. Let’s start plan your dream African holiday today!
