Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda

Welcome to Rwanda! Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, your friendly guide will greet you and take you on a tour of the vibrant city. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about Rwanda’s history, explore local markets for unique crafts, and check out historical sites. Afterward, head to your comfortable hotel, where you can relax and enjoy a delicious dinner while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Day 2: Drive to Akagera National Park & Afternoon Boat Safari

After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savanna park. Once there, embark on a morning game drive, where you’ll have a chance to see elephants, zebras, buffaloes, and even lions. In the afternoon, hop on a boat cruise along Lake Ihema to spot hippos, crocodiles, and an incredible variety of bird species. End the day with dinner at your lodge, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.

Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive & Night Safari

Today is packed with adventure! Begin the day with an extended game drive, covering the diverse landscapes of Akagera. Drive through savannas, woodlands, and wetlands in search of giraffes, leopards, antelopes, and more. After a relaxing dinner at the lodge, prepare for an exciting night safari, where you’ll spot nocturnal creatures like hyenas, bush babies, and owls under the starry sky.

Day 4: Morning Game Drive & Return to Kigali

Wake up early for one last game drive in Akagera before heading back to Kigali. Enjoy lunch in the city, then spend the afternoon at leisure. You can shop for souvenirs, explore more cultural sites, or simply unwind at your hotel as you prepare for the next adventure.

Day 5: Journey to Nyungwe Forest via King's Palace

After breakfast, travel to Nyungwe Forest National Park. On the way, stop at the King’s Palace in Nyanza to learn about Rwanda’s royal history, then visit the Ethnographic Museum for a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. Enjoy a traditional Rwandan lunch before arriving at your lodge nestled in the heart of the rainforest.

Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk

Start your day early with a guided trek to find chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest. Watch them swing through the trees and interact in their natural habitat. Later, challenge yourself with a canopy walk, crossing a suspended bridge high above the forest floor, offering breathtaking views of the jungle and its wildlife.

Day 7: Drive to Kibuye - Relax by Lake Kivu

Leave the forest behind and drive to Kibuye, a peaceful lakeside town on the shores of Lake Kivu. Spend the afternoon exploring the tranquil beaches, visiting local fishing villages, or just enjoying the stunning views of the lake. Unwind at your lodge and listen to the gentle waves as you rest.

Day 8: Boat Cruise on Lake Kivu & Drive to Volcanoes National Park

Start your morning with a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Kivu, passing by lush islands and observing local fishermen at work. After lunch, take a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll check in at a lodge near the park and prepare for the ultimate gorilla trekking experience.

Day 9: Gorilla Trekking & Cultural Visit

Get ready for one of the most exciting days of your journey! Head into the dense rainforest of Volcanoes National Park for a guided gorilla trek. Spend an hour observing these incredible primates as they feed, play, and interact. In the afternoon, visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to experience traditional Rwandan music, dance, and storytelling.

Day 10: Golden Monkey Trekking & Drive to Uganda

Begin the day with a golden monkey trekking adventure, where you’ll watch these playful primates leap from tree to tree. Later, cross into Uganda and journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Check in at your lodge and relax in the midst of the beautiful rainforest scenery.

Day 11: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Another extraordinary day of gorilla trekking awaits! Venture into the thick jungle of Bwindi with experienced trackers, where you’ll spend an unforgettable hour with a gorilla family. Take in every moment, from their gentle interactions to their curious gazes. Afterward, return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest.

Day 12: Return to Kigali & Departure

After breakfast, begin the drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final city tour or a visit to the Genocide Memorial. Your guide will then take you to the airport, marking the end of your incredible 12-day adventure through Rwanda and Uganda.