5-Nights Primate Encounters

5 nights from: Please call for rates

Each day in Rwanda is a revelation.

Spending time with the primates of Rwanda is such a moving experience that many people consider it transformative. The face-to-face encounter with a mountain gorilla is a moment of awe and connection, leaving an indelible mark on all who experience it.

An encounter with chimpanzees, however, is a much more lighthearted – and slightly chaotic – affair. These noisy, fast-moving acrobats swing and leap from branch to branch, loudly announcing their presence to all.

This journey of enlightenment starts in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital where you will learn about Rwanda's cultural heritage, your first insight into the country's compelling story. Bustling markets and lively streetscapes reflect the dynamism of urban life, while poignant memorials serve as reminders of Rwanda's tragic past.

One of the first surprises is the food; Rwandan cuisine tantalizes the taste buds with its array of flavors and influences. From hearty brochettes grilled to perfection to colorful bowls of ibirayi (vegetable stew), dining in Rwanda is a culinary adventure in itself.

At Volcanoes National Park you will embark on a gorilla trekking adventure. Led by experienced guides, trekkers traverse the dense forest, senses heightened by the anticipation of encountering these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The guides stop frequently to allow trekkers a chance to rest and take photos along the way.

Once the gorilla family is located, you will have an hour to observe and photograph the gorillas. Looking into the eyes of a gorilla, you will see emotion, intelligence and curiosity – this is a true exchange. Fortunate trekkers will see beautiful golden monkeys in the forest as well.

Your chimp trek occurs from your lodge in Nyungwe Forest, a 5 hour drive from Volcanoes National Park. Again, you will trek to the chimp’s territory where you will spend time both watching and photographing their antics. Following your trek, you will enjoy another night at your lodge before returning to Kigali for your onward flight.

Please note trekking permits are not included in package price.

Extending across almost 386 sq mi/1,000 sq km, Nyungwe is the largest remaining tract of montane rain forest in East Africa with a checklist of around 280 bird species, including 26 regional endemics, and an astounding variety of trees, orchids and butterflies. The most conspicuous of its 13 primate species include the agile Angola colobus monkey, which occurs in troops of several hundred individuals, and the handsome L'Hoest's monkey. The park also supports a significant population of the common chimpanzee. Free Nyungwe Forest National Park Travel
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Jeanette Blevins

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A number of guided and self-guided hikes are available, from chimpanzee-tracking in the hills to hiking a lovely waterfall trail ideally suited to bird-watchers. Traditionally home to several Batwa tribes, Nyungwe is also the country's last substantial relict of this type of biodiverse habitat. It lies 85 mi/135 km southwest of Kigali.