This 5-Day Nyungwe National Park Adventure: Primates, Hiking & Lake Kivu Escape invites you to experience the full wonder of Rwanda’s southwestern highlands, where ancient rainforests meet shimmering lakes and mountain air carries the songs of primates and birds. Designed for explorers seeking a balance between adventure and relaxation, this journey takes you through the heart of Nyungwe National Park — home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, breathtaking waterfalls, and one of Africa’s most famous canopy walks — before leading you to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s most scenic retreat.
Over five unforgettable days, you’ll track wild chimpanzees through misty forests, walk high above the trees on a suspended bridge, hike through lush mountain trails, and unwind on Lake Kivu’s gentle waters. This is more than a safari — it’s a soulful immersion into nature, culture, and the quiet majesty of Rwanda’s landscapes.
Highlights
- Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour & Cultural Introduction
- Day 2: Kigali – Scenic Drive to Nyungwe via Nyanza & Huye
- Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk Experience
- Day 4: Hiking the Isumo Waterfall Trail & Transfer to Lake Kivu
- Day 5: Lake Kivu Boat Ride – Return to Kigali
5-Day Nyungwe National Park Adventure: Primates, Hiking & Lake Kivu Escape
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival in Kigali – City Tour & Cultural Introduction
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly received by your expert guide from Volcanoes Gorilla Tours. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll embark on a short Kigali city tour — an introduction to one of Africa’s cleanest, most organized capitals.
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a deeply moving tribute to Rwanda’s history and resilience, then explore the Kimironko Market, where colorful fabrics, baskets, and fresh produce fill the stalls with life. You may also stop at the Campaign Against Genocide Museum or the Kandt Natural History Museum, depending on your interests.
Later, settle into your Kigali hotel and enjoy dinner as you prepare for your journey to Nyungwe the following day.
Overnight: Kigali Serena Hotel / Hotel des Mille Collines / Ubumwe Grande Hotel
Meal Plan: Dinner
Kigali – Scenic Drive to Nyungwe via Nyanza & Huye
After breakfast, your adventure officially begins with a 5-6 hour scenic drive to Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda’s southwest. The route winds through rolling hills, tea plantations, and lush countryside dotted with traditional homesteads.
En route, visit the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, where you’ll explore Rwanda’s royal heritage and meet the Inyambo cattle with their striking, curved horns — symbols of grace and nobility. Continue to Huye (Butare) for a guided tour of the Ethnographic Museum, showcasing Rwanda’s pre-colonial history, art, and cultural traditions.
Arrive in Gisakura, on the edge of Nyungwe Forest, in the late afternoon. The transition from open hills to dense montane rainforest is breathtaking — a green world of mist, mystery, and birdsong.
Check in at your lodge and relax amid the soothing sounds of the forest.
Overnight: One&Only Nyungwe House / Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel / Gisakura Guest House
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk Experience
Today promises one of the greatest wildlife encounters in Africa — chimpanzee trekking. After an early breakfast, you head to the park briefing point at Uwinka or Cyamudongo Forest, depending on the chimpanzee group’s location.
The forest awakens with the sound of life — birds calling, branches rustling, and the faint cries of chimpanzees echoing through the valleys. Accompanied by expert rangers, you’ll follow fresh tracks and nests until you locate the troop. Observing them feed, play, and interact up close is both thrilling and humbling. The one hour spent in their presence offers an unforgettable connection to our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.
After trekking, return to your lodge for lunch and rest. In the afternoon, head to the Uwinka Visitor Center for the iconic Canopy Walkway — a 160-meter suspension bridge hanging 60 meters above the forest floor. The views from above are breathtaking: the endless green canopy stretches to the horizon, alive with birds and butterflies.
As you walk across the swaying bridge, the cool mountain breeze and gentle hum of the forest below create a surreal sense of freedom. Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation as the forest night envelops you in tranquility.
Overnight: One&Only Nyungwe House / Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel / Gisakura Guest House
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hiking the Isumo Waterfall Trail & Transfer to Lake Kivu
After breakfast, lace up your boots for the Isumo Waterfall Trail, one of Nyungwe’s most rewarding hikes. This moderate trail leads through lush rainforest, bamboo groves, and fern-draped gullies. Along the way, look out for colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and a symphony of birds, including the striking Ruwenzori turaco and great blue turaco.
The final stretch opens onto the Isumo Waterfall, a magnificent cascade plunging 17 meters into a misty ravine. The surrounding vegetation sparkles with droplets, and the thunder of falling water echoes through the gorge — a scene both powerful and peaceful.
After the hike, you’ll have lunch before departing for Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s most serene freshwater lake, located about three hours away in the town of Kibuye (Karongi). The drive meanders along the Congo-Nile Trail, one of Africa’s most scenic roads, offering panoramic views of rolling hills, terraced slopes, and glimmering water below.
Arrive at Lake Kivu in the evening. The calm waters and orange glow of sunset make for a perfect contrast to the dense rainforest you’ve just explored.
Overnight: Cormoran Lodge / Lake Kivu Serena Hotel / Moriah Hill Resort
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Lake Kivu Boat Ride – Return to Kigali
Wake up to the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore. After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Kivu. Glide across its glassy surface, visit nearby islands, and watch fishermen casting their nets in traditional dugout canoes. The lake is safe for swimming, and birdlife along the shores adds to its tranquil charm.
Later, visit Kibuye’s local market or enjoy a walk along the lake promenade before beginning your journey back to Kigali. The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours, with stops for photography or coffee along the way.
Arrive in Kigali in the evening, marking the end of your 5-day adventure — a journey that has taken you from the ancient forests of Nyungwe to the serene waters of Lake Kivu, unveiling Rwanda’s unmatched natural beauty and gentle rhythm of life.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch
The best time to go on a safari is during the dry seasons, when wildlife gathers around water sources and sightings are more frequent and rewarding.
Comfortable stays in the heart of nature, ranging from luxury lodges and tented camps to eco-friendly retreats that blend seamlessly with the wild.
Safari Inclusions
- All ground transportation in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Airport or hotel transfers in Kigali
- Chimpanzee trekking permit and all Nyungwe park entry fees
- Guided Canopy Walk, Isumo Waterfall Hike, and other nature trails
- Boat ride on Lake Kivu
- Four nights’ accommodation (luxury, mid-range, or budget options) on a full-board basis
- All meals as per itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Bottled drinking water throughout the tour
- Government taxes and service charges
Safari Exclusions
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Rwanda entry visa and travel insurance
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Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and snacks not listed in the meal plan
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Laundry services, phone calls, and souvenirs
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Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., extended boat rides, cultural shows)
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Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
5-Day Nyungwe National Park Adventure: Primates, Hiking & Lake Kivu Escape
Travel Tips
- 1. Clothing and Gear:
Pack light but bring layers — Nyungwe’s high altitude means cool mornings and evenings. Waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots are essential for forest trails. - 2. Health & Safety:
Carry a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Although malaria risk is low in high-altitude areas, anti-malarial medication and insect repellent are recommended. Bring a basic first aid kit and any prescribed medications. - 3. Photography:
For canopy and forest photography, use a fast lens or camera with a high ISO range to capture movement in low light. Protect your equipment from rain and humidity. - 4. Weather Awareness:
Expect mist and light rain even during dry months. Quick-drying fabrics and rain covers for backpacks are advisable. - 5. Responsible Travel:
Stay on marked trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and refrain from picking plants. Respect the forest’s natural balance and follow all ranger instructions. - 6. Cultural Courtesy:
Rwandans value politeness and modesty. A friendly greeting — “Muraho” — is always appreciated. Ask permission before photographing people or community scenes. - 7. Connectivity & Currency:
Mobile network coverage may be limited in the park. Carry sufficient cash in Rwandan Francs (RWF), as ATMs are scarce near Nyungwe. Most lodges accept major credit cards. - 8. Combine Destinations:
For an extended East African experience, you can connect this itinerary with Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking or Akagera National Park for a classic savannah safari.
5-Day Nyungwe National Park Adventure: Primates, Hiking & Lake Kivu Escape
YOUR SAFARI THROUGH THE LENS
- Visualize the experience.