Rwanda — Luxury Volcanoes & NyungweChimpanzee Safari

· Morning: Upon arrival at Kigali
International Airport (KGL), you will be
warmly greeted by your Savannah Explore
Africa guide. Enjoy a refreshing welcome
drink and a brief overview of the
incredible journey ahead.
· Scenic Transfer: Begin your adventure
with a scenic 2.5-hour drive north to
Volcanoes National Park. The journey
itself is a highlight, winding through rolling
hills, vibrant green terraced farms, and
bustling local villages, offering a beautiful
glimpse into rural Rwandan life.
· Luxury Arrival: Arrive at your exclusive
lodge, such as the One&Only Gorilla’s
Nest, renowned for its breathtaking
views, exquisite design, and impeccable
service. Check into your private forest
villa or suite.
· Afternoon: Settle in and enjoy a gourmet
lunch at the lodge.
· Evening: Attend a comprehensive
briefing from your guide about the next
day's gorilla trekking, including what to
expect, what to wear, and etiquette.
· Optional Cultural Experience: Take an
optional visit to a nearby village
community. This immersive experience
may include a traditional Intore dance
performance, a tour of a local school or
farm, and the opportunity to purchase
authentic handicrafts directly from the
artisans.
· Dinner & Relaxation: Savor a sumptuous
multi-course dinner featuring a blend of
international and local Rwandan cuisine,
before retiring to your luxurious room in
anticipation of tomorrow's adventure.

· Early Morning: Wake up to the sounds of
the forest and enjoy a hearty breakfast
with plenty of coffee, ensuring you are
energized for the trek.
· Park Headquarters: Transfer to the
Volcanoes National Park headquarters for
the official 7:00 AM registration. Here,
you'll be assigned your gorilla family
group and meet your expert park rangers
and trackers. Enjoy a traditional
performance and a cup of Rwandan tea or
coffee while preparations are made.
· The Trek: Embark on your
once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trek! The hike
can vary from 1 to 4 hours each way
through lush, dense bamboo forests and
steep, muddy terrain (porters are available
for hire locally for additional support). The
effort is instantly forgotten the moment
you encounter these gentle giants.
· The Encounter: Spend one magical hour
observing the gorilla family. Watch in awe
as massive silverbacks forage, mothers
care for their playful infants, and juveniles
tumble through the vines. Your guide and
rangers will provide fascinating insights
into their behavior and social structure.
(Remember to bring your camera with no
flash!).
· Afternoon: Return to the lodge, often
feeling exhilarated and humbled. You will
have a well-deserved lunch. The afternoon
is yours to relax and reflect. Enjoy a
massage at the lodge's spa, soak in a hot
bath, or simply share stories of your
encounter from the comfort of the lodge's
viewing deck.
· Evening: Enjoy a celebratory dinner,
perhaps toasting your incredible day with
a fine wine.

· Morning: After a leisurely breakfast, you
will transfer either by road (a scenic ~5-6
hour drive through the heart of Rwanda's
stunning countryside) or by scheduled
domestic flight (a quick and spectacular
journey offering aerial views of the hills
and lakes, subject to schedule and
availability) to Nyungwe Forest National
Park.
· En Route: If driving, stop for photos at
breathtaking viewpoints and for lunch at a
charming local restaurant.
· Luxury in the Forest: Arrive at the iconic
One&Only Nyungwe House, a luxurious
lodge nestled on the edge of a working
tea plantation overlooking the vast forest
canopy. Check into your elegant room.
· Evening: Enjoy the serene atmosphere.
You may choose to take a guided walk
through the tea plantation to learn about
its history and production, or simply
unwind by the infinity pool with a book
before dinner.

· Pre-Dawn: An early start is key for
chimpanzee tracking! Have a light
breakfast with tea/coffee before heading
to the park office for briefing and group
assignment.
· Chimp Trekking: Venture into the
ancient, biodiverse Nyungwe Forest. The
trek is dynamic as you follow the
energetic calls of the chimps. The forest is
also home to 12 other primate species,
including Angolan colobus monkeys, so
keep your eyes peeled.
· The Sighting: Once located, you will have
one hour to observe the chimpanzees as
they swing through the trees, groom each
other, and vocalize loudly. It is a thrilling
and awe-inspiring experience.
· Mid-Morning: Return to the lodge for a
full brunch and some downtime.
· Afternoon: Canopy Walk Adventure:
Later, experience the forest from a
completely different perspective on the
Igishigishigi Canopy Walkway—one of
only a few in Africa. This 160-meter-long
suspension bridge hangs 50 meters above
the forest floor, offering breathtaking
views and a unique opportunity to spot
birds and monkeys in the upper canopy.
· Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a final gourmet
dinner in the forest, reflecting on the day's
primate encounters.

· Morning: Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast
amidst the tranquil forest sounds.
· Scenic Drive: Begin the 4-5 hour drive
back to Kigali. The journey is broken up
with optional stops at scenic viewpoints
over Lake Kivu or the rolling hills of the
Southern Province.
· Kigali City Tour (Optional but Highly
Recommended): Upon arrival in Kigali, you
will have time for a visit to the Kigali
Genocide Memorial. This poignant and
important site provides a deeper
understanding of Rwanda's history and its
remarkable journey of reconciliation and
renewal.
· Departure: Afterwards, you will be
transferred to Kigali International Airport
(KGL) in time for your onward
international flight, filled with
unforgettable memories.