Rwanda Gorilla & Primates Safari Highlight by Nature Bound Africa is a premier “restorative” journey through the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” This 6-day expedition focuses on the world’s most intimate Great Ape encounters and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Core Trip Highlights
- Gorilla Trekking (Volcanoes National Park): The tour’s spiritual centerpiece. Spend a life-changing hour with a habituated Mountain Gorilla family on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains.
- Chimpanzee Tracking (Nyungwe Forest): Explore one of Africa’s oldest rainforests to track habituated chimpanzees and spot up to 12 other primate species, including the L’Hoest’s monkey.
- Nyungwe Canopy Walk: Experience a thrilling 160-meter-long suspension bridge hanging 70 meters above the forest floor, offering a bird’s-eye view of the ancient canopy and rare orchids.
- Golden Monkey Trekking: A rare opportunity to observe these vibrant, playful primates endemic to the high-altitude bamboo forests of the Virunga volcano chain.
- Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village: An immersive cultural experience where former poachers share traditional Rwandan dances, medicine, and the history of the kingdom.
- Kigali Genocide Memorial: A moving and essential visit in Rwanda’s capital to honor the victims and understand the country’s inspiring journey of reconciliation.
Typical 2026 Itinerary Summary
| Day | Destination | Key Activity |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Kigali to Nyungwe | Transfer to the southern rainforest; Chimpanzee tracking. |
| 3 | Nyungwe Forest | Canopy Walk and search for Colobus monkeys. |
| 4 | Lake Kivu | Scenic drive to Rubavu for relaxation by the lakeside. |
| 5 | Volcanoes NP | Gorilla Trekking followed by a cultural village visit. |
| 6 | Volcanoes to Kigali | Golden Monkey tracking and transfer back to Kigali. |
Safari Essentials & 2026 Details
- Permit Management: Nature Bound Africa handles the procurement of Gorilla Permits ($1,500) and Chimpanzee Permits ($250). Due to strict conservation limits, these should be booked 6–12 months in advance.
- Transport: Conducted in a 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser or specialized tour van, providing comfort on Rwanda’s winding, scenic mountain roads.
- Accommodation: Hand-picked luxury or mid-range lodges, such as Nyungwe Top View Lodge or Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, provided on a Full Board basis.
- Best Time: The dry seasons of June–September and December–February are ideal for trekking, though Rwanda’s forests remain lush year-round.
For more details on 2026 pricing or to customize your Rwanda route, visit the official Nature Bound Africa Rwanda Gorilla & Primates Safari Highlight.
