5 Days Rwanda Primates Tour (Golden Monkeys & Gorilla Trekking) by Samz Tours Uganda

Welcome to Rwanda: Your Journey Begins in Kigali

Your 5 Days Rwanda Primates Tour begins the moment you step off the plane at Kigali International Airport. After clearing customs and immigration, you’ll be warmly greeted by a friendly representative from Samz Tours Uganda, who will assist with your transfer to your hotel. The drive to Hotel Des Mille Collines, located in the heart of Kigali, will take about 30 minutes. As you drive through the vibrant streets, you’ll get your first taste of Rwanda’s rich history and its modern development.

Relaxation at Hotel Des Mille Collines

Once you check-in at Hotel Des Mille Collines, you can take time to relax and unwind after your flight. The hotel is known for its serene atmosphere and excellent service. You can explore the hotel’s well-maintained grounds or enjoy a meal at the hotel’s restaurant, offering both local and international cuisine.

If you prefer to rest, your room provides a peaceful sanctuary where you can prepare for the adventures ahead. The evening is at your leisure, and you can rest knowing that you have an exciting itinerary ahead.

• Pickup from Kigali International Airport.
• Transfer to Hotel Des Mille Collines.
• Overnight accommodation with dinner.

Morning Kigali City Tour: Discover Rwanda’s History and Culture

On Day 2, you will begin your day with a Kigali city tour after a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Kigali is a thriving city and Rwanda’s cultural and political heart. The morning city tour offers you an opportunity to explore some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks, including:

• Kigali Genocide Memorial: This is a must-visit site where you will learn about Rwanda’s tragic history and the resilience of the people. The memorial serves as a moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide.
• Kimironko Market: The bustling market is a great place to witness local life and buy handmade crafts or fresh produce.
• Kigali Convention Centre: A modern architectural marvel that stands as a symbol of Rwanda’s growth and development.
• Nyamirambo Neighborhood: Known for its vibrant multicultural influence, it’s one of the most colorful neighborhoods in Kigali.

The 5 Days Rwanda Primates Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Rwanda, from its history to its modern-day growth.

Afternoon Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After lunch in Kigali, you will begin your scenic road journey to Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s famous primates, including Golden Monkeys and Mountain Gorillas. The drive is approximately 2-3 hours, during which you will be treated to views of rolling hills, lush greenery, and beautiful landscapes that make Rwanda so unique. The journey itself is a fantastic way to experience the stunning countryside of Rwanda.

Evening Iby’Iwachu Cultural Experience

Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, you will enjoy an Iby’Iwachu Cultural Experience. This evening activity immerses you in the local culture, where you will interact with the indigenous Banyarwanda people. You’ll experience traditional Rwandan music, dance, and storytelling, learning about the customs, daily life, and traditions of the local communities. The evening ends with a delicious dinner featuring local dishes, giving you a deeper appreciation for Rwandan culture.

• Kigali city tour.
• Scenic road transfer to Volcanoes National Park.
• Iby’Iwachu cultural experience.
• Overnight accommodation near Volcanoes National Park.

Golden Monkey Tracking Adventure in Volcanoes National Park

On Day 3, you will experience the thrill of Golden Monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park. Golden monkeys are one of Rwanda’s most elusive and endangered species, and they can only be found in the Virunga Mountains. After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing. You will then embark on a trek into the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park, where you will track these playful primates.

The trek typically lasts about 2-3 hours, and you will be guided by experienced park rangers who are experts in the behavior of golden monkeys. The golden monkeys are known for their social behavior, and you will be able to watch them in their natural habitat as they feed and interact with one another.

Visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

In the afternoon, you will visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund located in the heart of Volcanoes National Park. This institution is dedicated to the conservation of mountain gorillas and carries on the legacy of the legendary American primatologist Dian Fossey, who devoted her life to studying and protecting gorillas. The visit includes a tour of the research center and the Karisoke Research Center, where you will learn about the history of Dian Fossey’s work, the challenges faced in gorilla conservation, and the current efforts being made to protect these endangered animals.

Evening Relaxation at the Lodge

After an exhilarating day of primate tracking and learning about the conservation efforts of Dian Fossey, you will return to your lodge for some well-deserved rest. The evening is free for you to relax, reflect on the day’s experiences, and enjoy a meal at the lodge.

• Golden Monkey tracking permit and park fees.
• Visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
• Overnight stay near Volcanoes National Park.

The Ultimate Wildlife Experience: Mountain Gorilla Trekking

The highlight of your 5 Days Rwanda Primates Tour adventure comes on Day 4 with an unforgettable experience: Mountain Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to the park headquarters for a briefing on trekking safety and the gorilla families you will be tracking. The trek typically lasts between 2 to 6 hours, depending on where the gorillas are located. You will be guided by experienced rangers who are experts in the behavior and conservation of mountain gorillas.

Once you encounter the gorilla family, you’ll have one hour to observe them in their natural habitat. Watching the gentle giants interact in the forest, especially the playful young gorillas and the dominant silverbacks, is an awe-inspiring and humbling experience. You will also learn about the gorillas’ behavior, diet, and the efforts being made to protect them from extinction.

Evening Relaxation at the Lodge

After a thrilling day of gorilla trekking, you will return to your lodge for a relaxing evening. You can enjoy a hot meal and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Reflect on the day’s experiences and relax in the tranquil environment of Volcanoes National Park.

• Gorilla trekking permit and park fees.
• Expert guides and park rangers.
• Packed lunch during the trek.
• Evening relaxation at the lodge.

Scenic Road Transfer Back to Kigali

On your final day, you will enjoy a scenic road transfer back to Kigali after breakfast. The drive will take approximately 2-3 hours, and you will pass through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, characterized by rolling hills, lush vegetation, and picturesque villages. This peaceful journey offers the perfect opportunity to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had throughout your tour.

Departure from Kigali International Airport

Once you arrive in Kigali, you will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport for your onward flight. This marks the end of your 5 Days Rwanda Primates Tour, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and Rwanda’s beautiful landscapes.

• Scenic transfer to Kigali International Airport.
• Drop-off at the airport for departure.