6 Days Nyungwe Chimps, Golden Monkeys & Bwindi Gorilla Trek

Rwanda & Uganda Primate Safari Experience

Safari Overview

This exciting 6-day Rwanda and Uganda primate safari combines three of East Africa’s most rewarding wildlife experiences: chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park, and the once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The journey is enriched with cultural encounters, scenic drives through Rwanda’s famous “Land of a Thousand Hills,” relaxation along the shores of Lake Kivu, and unforgettable rainforest adventures across two countries.

6-Day Rwanda and Uganda primate safari detailed itinerary

Day 1 – : Kigali → Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, depart Kigali and drive south to Nyungwe Forest National Park. En route, stop at the Ethnographic Museum in Huye, Rwanda’s national museum, where you will learn about the country’s cultural heritage, traditions, and history.

After lunch, continue the scenic drive through rolling hills and tea plantations before arriving at your lodge near Nyungwe Forest in the evening. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Ken Barham Guesthouse
  • Mid-range: Chimpanzee Lodge / Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge
    Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
    Drive Time: 4–5 hours

Day 2 –: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk

Rise early for transfer to the Uwinka Reception Center for briefing before chimpanzee trekking. Nyungwe Forest hosts two trekking sectors—Uwinka and Cyamudongo—and the ranger guide will select the best option for the day.

Nyungwe is one of Africa’s most biologically diverse rainforests, home to 13 primate species, over 300 bird species, and hundreds of plant varieties. Trek through dense forest in search of chimpanzees, enjoying close encounters and dramatic forest scenery.

After the trek, experience the famous canopy walk, suspended high above the forest floor, offering panoramic views of the rainforest. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Ken Barham Guesthouse
  • Mid-range: Chimpanzee Lodge / Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge
    Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 –: Nyungwe → Lake Kivu (Gisenyi)

After breakfast, transfer to Lake Kivu in Gisenyi. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake, known for its calm waters and rich birdlife.

Lake Kivu is safe for swimming—free from crocodiles, hippos, and bilharzia—making it ideal for relaxation. Visit the natural hot springs and historic Punishment Island, then explore one of the lake’s islands, such as Nyamirundi Island, famous for its coffee plantations. Learn about coffee production from harvest to cup and enjoy fresh Rwandan coffee tasting.

Dinner and overnight at your lakeside lodge.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Inzu Lodge
  • Mid-range: Palm Beach Resort / Paradise Malahide
    Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
    Drive Time: 3–4 hours

Day 4 –: Lake Kivu → Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, drive north to Musanze and continue to Volcanoes National Park. Visit the beautiful Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, surrounded by dramatic volcanic scenery.

Enjoy a guided nature walk and a visit to the Karisoke Research Center & Exhibits, founded by Dian Fossey, to learn about gorilla conservation history. Lunch is served at Migano Café before checking in at your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Migano Hotel & Café / Amikus Hotel
  • Mid-range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge / Classic Lodge
    Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
    Drive Time: ~1 hour

Day 5 –: Golden Monkey Trekking → Bwindi (Uganda)

After an early breakfast, transfer to Kinigi Park Headquarters for briefing before golden monkey trekking. The trek begins around 8:00 am in the bamboo forests along the park’s edge.

Golden monkeys are highly active and playful, offering excellent photography opportunities. After spending one hour observing them, return to the lodge for lunch, then drive to the Rwanda–Uganda border and proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Dinner and overnight near the park.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Broadbill Forest Camp /Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge
  • Mid-range: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge /Bakiga Lodge /Gorilla Mist Camp
    Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
    Drive Time: 3–4 hours

Day 6 –: Gorilla Trekking → Kigali Departure

After an early breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking regulations. Begin the trek through dense rainforest terrain of steep slopes and valleys in search of a habituated gorilla family.

The trek can last 2–8 hours, depending on gorilla movement. Once located, enjoy one unforgettable hour observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

After the trek, drive back to the Rwanda border, continue to Kigali, and transfer to the airport for your evening international departure.

Safari Package Includes

  • Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
  • Transportation in a 4WD safari vehicle
  • Professional driver-guide & allowances
  • Park entrance fees
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit (Nyungwe)
  • Golden monkey trekking permit (Volcanoes NP)
  • Gorilla trekking permit (Bwindi)
  • Accommodation as listed
  • Meals as specified

Safari Package Excludes

  • Drinks and spirits
  • Laundry services
  • Tips and gratuities