Prepare to be swept away on an East African safari adventure of epic proportions, a journey that weaves together the most iconic wildlife experiences on the continent. Our expedition begins in the legendary Masai Mara, where the drama of the Great Migration unfolds across the vast plains, and lions, leopards, and cheetahs roam freely. From there, we'll witness the spectacle of thousands of flamingos painting the shores of Lake Nakuru pink, a breathtaking display of nature's artistry. We'll then venture to Amboseli, where elephants roam beneath the majestic snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, creating postcard-perfect scenes.
Our journey continues into the heart of Rwanda, where the rolling hills and lush forests hold even more wonders. We'll explore the revitalized Akagera National Park, track playful chimpanzees in the depths of Nyungwe Forest, and finally, experience the awe-inspiring moment of coming face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat within Parc National Volcans. Get ready for an immersive experience that will ignite your senses and leave you with memories to cherish forever.
Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.
Your Travel and Accommodation Arranged For You
Tips Included for Driver, Restaurant Staff, Local Guides
Authentic Local Experiences With Lots Of Inclusions.
Select a date below to reserve your spot:
NOTE: Due to prepaid park fees and gorilla permits which are non-refundable once issued, this tour requires a higher than usual deposit amount at time of booking. Your $2750 per person deposit is 100% non-refundable non-transferrable once the tour becomes 'guaranteed.' For non-trekking pricing, please contact us. See "Transport & Travel Conditions" below for trekking details/difficulty.
Optional Single Supplement: $2040 USD (number of singles limited).
This tour may require a mandatory single supplement charge of $1010 if you join our share program and we are unable to pair you.
Download Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Kigali
Today we arrive in Kigali, Rwanda's vibrant capital and largest city, strategically situated in the heart of the country. Since gaining independence in 1962, Kigali has evolved into the nation's economic, cultural, and transportation hub. This bustling metropolis seamlessly blends traditional Rwandan culture with modern amenities, offering a unique glimpse into the country's rich history and resilience.
Overnight in Kigali.
Included Meal(s): Dinner
Day 2 Kigali - Nyungwe Forest National Park
This morning, we set off from Kigali on a scenic journey southwards, bound for the breathtaking Nyungwe Forest National Park. As we cover the 260 km (160 mi) to our destination, we'll break up the drive with fascinating stopover visits to two of Rwanda's most historic and culturally significant towns: Nyanza and Butare.
In Nyanza, we'll delve into the region's rich history at the Royal Palace Museum, which showcases the traditional seat of the Rwandan monarchy. Next, we'll head to Butare, home to the National Museum of Rwanda, which offers a treasure trove of artifacts, exhibits, and insights into the country's cultural heritage.
We'll take a break for lunch at a popular local restaurant and then continue our journey to the Nyungwe Forest region, arriving in the late afternoon as the sun casts its golden light over the treetops.
Overnight in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
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Day 3 Nyungwe: Chimpanzee Trek & Canopy Hike
This morning we'll embark on an unforgettable adventure: trekking through the lush Nyungwe Forest in search of its most charismatic residents – the chimpanzees. Our expert guides will lead us through the forest, sharing insights into the ecology and behaviour of these intelligent primates.
As we trek, we'll need to be prepared for a moderately challenging hike, covering a distance of approximately 4-6 km (2.5-3.7 miles) over uneven terrain. The duration of the trek will depend on the location of the chimps, but we can expect to be walking for around 2-4 hours. The forest's terrain can be steep and slippery in some areas, so sturdy hiking shoes and comfortable clothing are essential.
After an exhilarating morning with the chimps, we'll head to a different part of the forest for the Adventure Canopy Hike. This thrilling experience will take us high above the forest floor, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the chance to spot a variety of bird species and other wildlife.
Following our two exciting excursions, we'll return to our hotel for some well-deserved rest and relaxation.
Overnight in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4 Nyungwe Forest - Lake Kivu & Boat Excursion - Kigali
This morning after breakfast we'll bid farewell to the enchanting Nyungwe Forest region. Our journey takes us north along the scenic Kivu Belt Road, hugging the shores of Lake Kivu as we make our way to the charming town of Kibuye. The 130-kilometer (80 mi) drive takes approximately 2 hours, offering breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings.
Upon arrival, we'll embark on a leisurely 2-hour Boat Excursion on the calm waters of Lake Kivu. As we glide across the lake, we'll have the opportunity to hike up Napoleon Island Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for the infamous "swimming cows" – a unique sight that's sure to delight!
After our boat trip, we'll head to a picturesque lake shore hotel for lunch and some time to freshen up, after which we'll depart Kibuye and head east, beginning our journey back to Kigali. The 130-kilometer drive takes approximately 3.5 hours, giving us plenty of time to reflect on the incredible experiences we've had so far.
Upon arrival in Kigali, we'll check into our hotel and enjoy some time at leisure. Dinner is on your own account tonight, giving you the freedom to choose from Kigali's many restaurants and cafes.
Overnight in Kigali.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
Day 5 Kigali - Genocide Museum - Parc National des Volcans
Today we transfer to the Parc National des Volcans (115 km/71 mi, +/- 3 hours).
But first we make a significant stop at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This poignant memorial, established in 2004, commemorates the tenth anniversary of the Rwandan genocide. While the genocide was a complex event with multifaceted causes, it remains a dark chapter in Rwandan history. Visiting the Genocide Memorial is a powerful and thought-provoking experience. It offers a sobering look at the tragic events of 1994, highlighting the resilience and strength of the Rwandan people. As we learn about the history and the impact of the genocide, we'll gain a deeper appreciation for the country's journey toward healing and reconciliation.
After a break for lunch in Kigali, we depart for the Parc National des Volcans. "In the heart of Central Africa, so high up that you shiver more than you sweat," wrote the eminent primatologist Dian Fossey, "are great, old volcanoes towering up almost 15,000 feet, and nearly covered with rich, green rainforest - the Virungas." Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, the Parc des Volcans protects the steep slopes of this magnificent mountain home of the rare mountain gorilla and the rich mosaic of montane ecosystems, which embrace evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp and heath.
Overnight at Parc National des Volcans.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6 Parc National des Volcans: Twin Lakes & Village
We'll start our day with a leisurely walk to the Ellen DeGeneres/Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a fantastic opportunity to learn more about gorillas and the remarkable work of Dian Fossey. The center offers informative exhibits and educational programs whereby visitors can gain valuable insights into gorilla conservation efforts and the challenges these magnificent creatures face.
We then have a scenic drive to the picturesque Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Upon arrival at Virunga Lodge, we'll enjoy a short walk, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the tranquil waters.
We'll then head to the bustling Musanze market. As we wander through the vibrant market, we'll immerse ourselves in the local culture, experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells of this bustling marketplace. We'll have the opportunity to interact with local vendors and learn about their products, from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs.
Overnight near Parc National des Volcans.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7 Parc National des Volcans: Gorilla Trekking
Parc National des Volcans: Gorilla Trekking
Early this morning we drive to the park headquarters where we are briefed by the guides of the Parc des Volcans before we start our gorilla trek. This 13,000-hectare national park protects the Rwanda sector of the Virunga Mountains, a range of six extinct and three active volcanoes which straddle the border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bamboo forest is interspersed with alpine moorland, grassland and marsh.
Tracking the gorillas through the light mountain forest on the slopes of the Virungas is a magical experience. If you are lucky you will get to the gorillas, spend an hour with them, and be back at the base in time for a late lunch. Some gorilla families however are more elusive, and tracking can take a full day… especially when wet and muddy.
The Mountain Gorillas in the Parc National des Volcans are part of a worldwide population of just 740 individuals. The gorillas we are allowed to track belong to one of five habituated family groups. For up to five years each, these groups have undergone an extremely delicate process that has gradually brought them to tolerate the presence of humans for a brief period every day and allowed a few privileged visitors to interact with them in the wild.
The gorillas are by no means tame, and are completely wild animals. However, experienced guides will accompany us on our tracking, many of who have been involved in the habituation process themselves. The guides will use their knowledge of the gorillas' habits and information from the previous day to locate the group’s whereabouts. Because of this, the time taken to track the gorillas varies enormously, from as little as 1 hour to as much as 8 hours before one returns to base. Once the gorillas are located, our group will be allowed a maximum of one hour with them.
Please remember that the mountain gorillas are a wild animal and are not enclosed in any form and free to move as they please. For this reason actual sightings of the gorilla groups cannot be guaranteed. For more information on gorilla tracking in Rwanda, go to www.ortpn.gov.rw.
Overnight near Parc National des Volcans.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8 Parc National des Volcans - Kigali
This morning we'll embark on a cultural immersion experience, visiting a nearby village. We'll witness firsthand the daily lives of the locals, observing their farming techniques, beekeeping practices, and traditional clothing-making processes. We'll also have the chance to explore their homes and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life.
Later today we travel back to Kigali arriving later in the afternoon.
Overnight in Kigali.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 9 Kigali, Rwanda - Fly to Nairobi, Kenya
Today we fly to to Nairobi, Kenya.
Part of Maasai land when the British arrived, Kenya's modern capital grew with the development of the railway. Derived from a Maasai word meaning "Cold Water," Nairobi is a pleasant mix of colonial British with modern and traditional African influences.
* NOTE: This flight is included if you purchase your international air through Adventures Abroad. Land Only passengers can purchase this for an extra charge (pricing is subject to change without notice, but it has historically been in the range of USD$350 per person).
Overnight in Nairobi.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 10 Nairobi - Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Today we travel from Nairobi, through the "White Highlands," so called because of the large number of Europeans who settled here, northwards to the lower slopes of Mt Kenya, rising to 5199 m (16,728 feet), Africa's second highest peak. Our (+/- 4 hour) drive will take us into the Central Highlands, the heartland of the Kikuyu people. This is a very fertile region, well-watered, intensively cultivated, and thickly forested. The land was coveted by the Europeans who began arriving in ever-increasing numbers once the railway through the area was completed. The settlers established coffee and tea plantations on the eastern slopes of Mt Kenya and cultivated wheat on the western slopes.
Our destination is Sweetwaters, a luxury tented camp clustered around a water hole and set in the pristine calm of the private Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a non-profit organization supporting endangered species, tourism and community outreach. Ol Pejeta is East Africa's largest Black Rhino sanctuary, the only place in Kenya to see chimpanzees, and holds some of the highest predator densities in Kenya.
This afternoon we'll enjoy our first game drive within the conservancy.
Overnight at Sweetwaters.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11 Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a sprawling landscape, a mosaic of diverse habitats stretching across over 350 square kilometers. Imagine rolling grass plains, interspersed with wooded grasslands, acacia woodlands, and patches of dense evergreen thickets – all contributing to a rich and varied ecosystem. This diversity of habitats supports an astounding variety of animals, including, of course, the iconic "Big Five" – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo.
Today, we'll immerse ourselves in this wildlife haven with both morning and afternoon game drives, maximizing our chances of encountering its incredible inhabitants. But that's not all! We'll also have the unique opportunity to visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a truly special place. This sanctuary is the only one of its kind in Kenya, providing a refuge for the highly endangered and remarkably intelligent chimpanzee species. These chimpanzees, often orphaned or rescued from abusive situations in West and Central Africa, find a safe and nurturing home here. The sanctuary's dedicated staff carefully nurses them back to health, allowing them to live out their days in the security of a vast, natural enclosure. It's a chance to witness these fascinating primates up close and learn about the important conservation work being done to protect them.
Overnight at Sweetwaters Camp.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12 Ol Pejeta - Great Rift Valley - Lake Nakuru National Park
This morning we travel to Lake Nakuru, a shallow soda lake in the Rift Valley (+/- 5 hours). The Rift Valley was created millions of years ago under the strain of enormous volcanic eruptions which resulted in a giant split in the earth's surface from Syria to Mozambique. Lava flowed into the valley, forming escarpments on either side of the gigantic trough which can be up to 80 km (50 miles) wide, big enough to be visible from space. At the lake, depending on the water levels, we may have the opportunity to see flamingos,* in addition to the over 340 species of birds that have been recorded in the Rift Valley!
Lake Nakuru is very shallow and can fluctuate up to five metres (12 feet) each day. When the water is low, you can see a white band of crystallized soda along the shoreline. This is also one of the best places in Kenya to view the rare White Rhino as we explore the park on our afternoon game drive.
* This, and other Rift Valley lakes, have been known in the past for huge numbers of flamingos; however, this can be very "hit and miss" owing to seasonal variations in rainfall and water level, and the increasing frequency of drought. The best we can do is hope for the best!
Overnight in Lake Nakuru National Park.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13 Lake Nakuru - Maasai Mara National Reserve
We rise early this morning and bid farewell to Lake Nakuru National Park, continuing our journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley. Our route takes us past the serene beauty of Lake Naivasha and the imposing presence of nearby Mount Longonot. This relatively young volcano serves as a stark reminder of the Rift Valley's turbulent geological history. After a drive of approximately six hours, which includes a stretch on a less-than-perfect road, we'll arrive at our lodge nestled within the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve, just in time for a well-deserved lunch.
The Maasai Mara is essentially a seamless extension of the vast Serengeti ecosystem, and it boasts an astonishing concentration of wildlife. This reserve is home to the largest population of lions in all of Kenya, a testament to its rich biodiversity. Large herds of plains game roam freely across the Mara's grasslands, creating a spectacle of nature at its finest. The Maasai Mara is also arguably the best place in Kenya to spot cheetahs, those sleek and graceful hunters.
Later this afternoon, we'll embark on another thrilling game drive, venturing out into the reserve in search of its incredible inhabitants. The possibilities are endless, and every game drive offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Time permitting, we may have the opportunity to visit a local Maasai village. This cultural immersion would provide a fascinating glimpse into the Maasai people's traditional way of life, allowing us to meet its residents and learn about their customs and beliefs. If time constraints prevent us from visiting the village today, we'll make every effort to arrange this experience on our return journey to Nairobi.
Overnight in the Maasai Mara.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 14 Maasai Mara National Reserve
The Maasai Mara National Reserve, a seemingly endless expanse of rolling grasslands, sits at the northern edge of the vast Serengeti Plain. Widely regarded as Kenya's premier park, the Mara plays a crucial role in one of nature's greatest spectacles: the annual wildebeest migration. These massive herds journey north from Tanzania around the end of June, gracing the Mara with their presence before returning south around the end of September. This incredible movement of animals is a sight to behold.
"The Mara," as it's affectionately known, is a haven for wildlife, supporting all of the famed "Big Five" – lion, elephant, leopard, rhinoceros, and buffalo. Beyond these iconic creatures, the reserve teems with an astonishing abundance of herding animals, including zebras, gazelles, and antelopes, as well as a rich diversity of other wildlife. As you traverse the reserve, you'll likely encounter the stately Maasai men and youth, easily recognizable by their distinctive attire, tending to their cattle and goats along the roadside. Their presence adds a unique cultural dimension to the Mara's natural beauty.
Today we've dedicated a full day to exploring this remarkable reserve, with both morning and afternoon game drives planned. This will give us ample opportunity to witness the incredible wildlife that calls the Maasai Mara home, from the majestic predators to the vast herds of herbivores, and everything in between. Every game drive in the Mara is a unique adventure, filled with the potential for unforgettable encounters.
In the Mara you will also have an optional opportunity to ascend over the northern Serengeti at daybreak in a hot air balloon (optional expense). From over 300 m (984 feet) above, you will be able to view the vast land and the myriad animals that inhabit the Maasai Mara. Today or tomorrow are the best days to participate in this activity - details sent upon booking.
Overnight in the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 15 Maasai Mara National Reserve
We enjoy another full day with game viewing in Maasai Mara. Depending on the season and current game locations and viewing conditions, we may divide our day into morning and afternoon drives, or take our lunches with us in order to venture further into the reserve if conditions warrant.
Overnight in the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 16 Maasai Mara - Nairobi
After breakfast, we'll embark on our journey back to Nairobi. The drive itself is expected to take approximately six hours, factoring in comfort stops along the way.
A highlight of our return journey will be a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum, conveniently located just outside of Nairobi. This isn't just a quick photo opportunity; we'll delve into the fascinating story of Baroness Karen Blixen-Finecke. Imagine stepping back in time to the 1920s and 30s – this Danish Baroness made Kenya her home in 1918 and lived here until 1931. It was during this period that she drew inspiration for her most famous work, "Out of Africa," published in 1937 under her pen name, Isaac Dineson.
The museum itself is Blixen's beautifully restored former home. It offers a unique glimpse into her life in colonial Kenya, showcasing the style and furnishings of the era. As we tour the house, we'll learn about her struggles and triumphs, her relationships, and the profound connection she felt to the African landscape. It's a chance to connect with the author behind the iconic book and gain a deeper understanding of the historical context that shaped her writing.
We'll make a lunch stop in the vicinity before continuing to our Nairobi hotel.
Overnight in Nairobi.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 17 Departure
Departure from Nairobi.
SAFIRI SALAAMA!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast
Inclusions
Tour leader or head guide services with local guide support at some locations (see also “Staff & Support” below)
Most meals are included (see detailed itinerary).
All accommodation, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary, including gorilla & chimpanzee permits.
Gratuities for drivers and local guides, restaurant staff, porters.
Airport transfers for land & air customers arriving/departing on tour dates. Those extending their stay will have their transfers included if they book both their air and extra accommodation through Adventures Abroad.
The flight from Kigali to Nairobi is included if you purchase your international air through Adventures Abroad. Those booking their own air can purchase this for an extra charge (pricing is subject to change without notice, but it has historically been in the range of USD$350 per person).
Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour.
Tour Leader/head driver gratuities, some lunches (see itinerary), drinks, personal items (ie laundry), international (if applicable) and domestic air taxes, visa fees, and any excursions referenced as 'optional'.
Airport transfers for Land Only customers.
Optional trip cancellation insurance (for more information see “Resources” tab).
The flight from Kigali to Nairobi is included ONLY if you purchase your international air through Adventures Abroad. Land Only passengers can purchase this for an extra charge (pricing is subject to change without notice, but it has historically been in the range of USD$350 per person).
Seasonality and Weather
RWANDA’S climate is generally warm and temperate, with little fluctuation in temperature throughout the year. In late January and February, visitors can expect a mix of sunshine and rain showers, with average high temperatures ranging from 22C to 24C (72°F to 75°F). This period falls within the wetter season, which runs from October to May, with January and February being relatively drier months.
In contrast, late August and early September are part of the dry season, which lasts from June to September. During this time, visitors can expect plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, with average highs around 25C to 27C (77°F to 81°F). However, it's not uncommon to experience some occasional rain showers, especially in the mountainous regions.
KENYA:
During January/February, Kenya experience a dry and warm season, often referred to as the "short dry season." Temperatures are pleasant, with average highs ranging from 23C to 28C (73°F to 82°F). This is an excellent time to visit, as the weather is conducive to outdoor activities like wildlife safaris, hiking, and beach relaxation. The dry conditions also make it easier to spot wildlife, as they congregate around water sources.
September marks the beginning of the "long dry season" in Kenya. The weather is generally warm and sunny, with average highs ranging from 24C to 29C (75°F to 84°F). This is a great time to visit, as the dry conditions make it ideal for outdoor activities, and the temperatures are comfortable. The wildlife is also more concentrated around water sources, making it easier to spot.
October is usually a warm and dry month in Kenya, with average highs ranging from 25C to 30C (77°F to 86°F). This is still a good time to visit, as the weather is generally pleasant, and the dry conditions make it easy to spot wildlife. However, the temperatures can be hotter than in September, and the dry conditions can be more pronounced.
In summary, January/February, September and October are all good times to visit Kenya, with pleasant temperatures and dry conditions. However, if you're sensitive to heat, September might be a better option as the temperatures are slightly milder.
If you’re a fan of African wildlife photography/television programming, you’re likely familiar with and keen on witnessing the annual ‘Great Migration’ of wildebeest and zebra in the Serengeti and/or Maasai Mara. Unfortunately, there is no neat and tidy answer re when is the best time to possibly witness the spectacle as it doesn’t have a simple start or end, just a dynamic cycle of wild movement through the year. Nor is it the same each year either as the migration is largely driven by the unpredictable rains, which means that wildebeest migration doesn’t operate on a set schedule, nor does it follow a set route. Nor do the animals all go the same way! That said, in the broadest of terms, the best time to see the Great Migration—meaning large herds of hooved animals—is probably during the dry season, between July and early October. This is not to say you won’t see them outside of this time as our travellers often do, but, like nature itself, it is all about luck and timing. They may not all be dramatically on the move, but rather just standing around eating and cavorting, but you’ll likely encounter the herds at some point on their/your journey. If you have your heart set of witnessing hundreds of wildebeest crossing a river en masse, getting chomped by crocodiles like you see on National Geographic, bear in mind that those photographers probably waited days or weeks to capture that exact moment—so good luck and happy ‘hunting’!
Transport and Travel Conditions
Our land transport comes in the form of rugged and spacious 4x4 Land Rover/Land Cruiser-style vehicles, with seating for 4-6 plus driver (you can view photos by accessing the “Gallery” tab toward the top of this page). The vehicles have pop-up roofs to enhance wildlife viewing while in parks and reserves. Most travellers comment that the climate in the savanna is such that air-conditioning is not critical (an open window offers adequate fresh air). Our land transport on Zanzibar will be a single air-conditioned vehicle (bus).
We have assigned our East African offerings in Rwanda, Kenya & Tanzania our lowest Difficulty Rating Level 1, strictly with respect to physical activity that occurs OUTSIDE of our one-day chimpanzee and/or gorilla trekking hikes, which can specifically be rated a LEVEL 3 (you can review info on all three levels via the "Tour Styles "link below). Aside from these two excursions, the only physical activity while on safari is limited to walking to/from your room from the main public areas of our hotels/lodges (some of which are spread out). One must also be aware that our programs are ambitious -- some early starts, long/full days of road travel on some some poor/rough roads, and some dust and heat, which can cause fatigue over time.
CHIMPANZEE & GORILLA TREKKING
Mountain gorillas are a major attraction of this tour and the following is compiled to maximize your enjoyment and understanding of these animals. Tracking them is a unique experience - the trek will take you into a strange land to meet these unusual creatures on their own terms.
Gorilla tracking is an intense experience that can take all day. A trek can take from one to six hours, sometimes more, at elevations in excess of 2270m (7,500 ft) and over rough terrain. Local guides will have a very good idea where the gorillas are and how far away they may be on the morning of our excursion. If they have the luxury of doing so, and if there are multiple gorilla family groups to choose from, the guides may choose to divide the group into groups that are less/more capable physically and assign participants dependent on estimated distance. But, of course, this cannot be guaranteed.
Chimpanzee trekking at Nyungwe is best-suited for people with a reasonable level of fitness. You'll need to be able to hike for several hours in challenging conditions. You'll be accompanied by experienced guides who know the forest well and can help you navigate. Porters can also be hired to carry your backpack, which can make the trek easier. Despite the physical demands, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe is an unforgettable experience. Seeing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat is well worth the effort!
We must also stress that, while you have a very good chance of seeing chimps/gorillas, the parks that we visit clearly state that success is NOT guaranteed! They are wild creatures with no fixed routine, and finding them requires the skill and experience of your trackers and guides, as well as luck!
For more information please visit www.ortpn.gov.rw
Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.
Activity Level: 1
No particular physical activity is involved other than town/city walks and short walks to dinners and sites of interest, some of which are large.
To learn more about the Activity levels, please visit our tour styles page.
Accommodation
Our hotels and lodges are 4-5 star properties with hot water, private bath, electricity, mosquito netting, dining areas, bar, swimming pools, gift shop etc. Remote lodges are not air-conditioned (they run on generator) though many are at higher elevations where heat is not a factor. Hotel porter service is available throughout (see 'Inclusions'). Single rooms are limited in number and may be smaller than twins. Many lodges are quite spread out and you will need to be able to walk up to 10 minutes from public areas to your room.
Click on the Map & Hotels” tab for a route map and some sample accommodations used for this tour.
Staff and Support
Groups of six or fewer participants (one vehicle), will be led/guided by one of our local senior driver-guides. Only multi-vehicle groups will be assigned an Adventures Abroad tour leader for the purposes of enhanced coordination.
Maximum 18 (plus Tour Leader)
Group Size
Maximum 18
Regions visited: East Africa
Countries visited: Rwanda and Kenya
*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.
The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.
All the rooms are individual spacious cottages with a fireplace, sitting area ... en-suite bathroom. The lodge consists of thirty cottages nineteen with king-size beds, five cottages have twin beds and varnished flat stone floors.
