4 Days Rwanda Primate Safari: Gorillas & Chimpanzee Habituation Experience.
Experience the very best of Rwanda’s primate encounters on this carefully curated four-day safari that blends adventure, conservation, and breathtaking scenery. This journey takes you to two of Rwanda’s most celebrated destinations: Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a sanctuary for chimpanzees.
From trekking through mist-covered forests in search of gorillas to spending extended time observing chimpanzees during a habituation experience, every moment is immersive and meaningful. Along the way, you will enjoy scenic drives through Rwanda’s rolling hills, interact with knowledgeable guides, and stay in comfortable lodges surrounded by nature. This safari is ideal for travelers seeking both close wildlife encounters and a deeper understanding of conservation efforts in one of Africa’s most beautiful countries.
Day 1: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park and Ellen DeGeneres campus visit.
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional driver-guide who will brief you about your upcoming safari experience. Shortly after, you will begin a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern region of Rwanda. The journey takes approximately two to three hours and offers stunning views of the country’s iconic rolling hills, terraced farmland, and vibrant rural communities.
On arrival, you will check into your lodge and enjoy a relaxing lunch in a serene environment surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, you will visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Fund, where you will explore interactive exhibits and learn about ongoing efforts to protect mountain gorillas. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation: Le Bambou gorilla lodge
Meal Plan: Full board
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking & Transfer to Nyungwe National Park.
After an early breakfast, check out of the lodge you will proceed to Kinigi Park Headquarters for a detailed briefing on gorilla trekking guidelines and safety measures by 7:30 am. Experienced rangers will provide important information on how to conduct yourself while in the presence of gorillas. You will then enter the forest in search of a habituated gorilla family within Volcanoes National Park.
The trek can take several hours depending on the gorillas’ movements, but the experience is incredibly rewarding. Once you locate the group, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing them as they feed, groom, and interact. After the trek, you will return for lunch before embarking on a scenic drive to Nyungwe National Park.
The journey showcases tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes. You will arrive in the evening, check into your lodge, and enjoy dinner before resting.
Accommodation: Chimpanzee lodge
Meal Plan: Full board
Day 3: Chimpanzee Habituation Experience in Nyungwe Forest
Today offers a unique and immersive primate encounter through a chimpanzee habituation experience in Nyungwe National Park. You will wake up very early and with packed lunch head for briefing to know how to behave near the chimpanzees then head to the forest before sunrise, accompanied by researchers, trackers, and experienced guides. Unlike standard chimpanzee trekking, this activity allows you to spend extended time observing chimpanzees as they gradually become accustomed to human presence around 4 hours.
You will follow the chimpanzees as they wake up, move through the forest canopy, forage for food, and interact socially. This longer experience provides deeper insight into their behavior, communication, and group dynamics. The sounds of the forest and the energy of the chimpanzees make this a truly unforgettable adventure.
After several hours in the forest, you will return to your lodge and spend the afternoon relaxing before dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation: Chimpanzee lodge
Meal Plan: Full board
Day 4: Return to Kigali International Airport& Departure
On your final day, you will enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your lodge while taking in the tranquil rainforest surroundings of Nyungwe National Park. After checking out, you will begin your return journey to Kigali, traveling through Rwanda’s scenic countryside filled with rolling hills, tea estates, and charming villages.
Along the way, you may stop for lunch. Your driver-guide will continue to share insights about Rwanda’s culture, history, and daily life, making the journey both informative and enjoyable.
Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport in time for your departure flight. This marks the end of your unforgettable primate safari experience in Rwanda.
End of Safari
Safari costs
From USD4248 for maximum of 1 person
From USD3276 per person for maximum of 2 people
Safari Inclusions
- 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Chimpanzee habituation permit
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- All park entry fees and activities
- Airport transfers
- Visit to Dian Fossey Fund Campus
Safari Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees and airport taxes
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses (laundry, beverages, etc.)
- Donations and optional activities
- Souvenirs and items of personal nature