Entry Kigali – Volcanoes National Park – Lake Kivu – Exit Kigali
| No. of Pax | Group Sharing Min. 06 Pax |
Group Sharing Min. 12 Pax |
| 06 and 12 | $9,352 pp. | $9,210 pp. |
| Single Room Supplement: 882 USD per night | ||
This 6-day Rwandan journey offers a seamless blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation, beginning with a reflective visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the vibrant traditions of the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, before venturing into the misty Volcanoes National Park for an extraordinary gorilla trekking experience. Guests will follow in the footsteps of famed primatologist Dian Fossey on a scenic hike, then unwind by the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, enjoying a peaceful boat cruise to Napoleon Island and an invigorating mountain bike adventure through picturesque lakeside villages. Concluding with a scenic return to Kigali, the itinerary captures the essence of Rwanda—its rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and close connection between people, wildlife, and nature.
Journey Time: Less 30 Minutes
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our dedicated safari guide(s) and transferred to your charming hotel. Take a moment to soak in the vibrant energy of Kigali and enjoy the exceptional comfort and serene ambiance, setting the perfect tone for your Rwandan adventure.
Overnight: Hemingways Retreat Kigali – or similar
Meal Plan: Half Board (Dinner and Breakfast)
Journey Time: Approx. 03 Hours
Pickup Time: 08:00AM. After an early breakfast at the hotel, check out and begin the day with a poignant visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a moment of reflection.
Planned activity: Reflective visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial – Begin the day with a reflective visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial (a place dedicated to honouring the memory of the genocide victims), where guests can engage deeply with Rwanda’s history through exhibitions, personal stories, and serene memorial gardens. This meaningful experience provides a profound moment of reflection and understanding, setting a thoughtful tone before continuing your journey. Savor an early lunch at a restaurant and continue to Volcanoes National Park.
Upon arrival, be greeted with a captivating cultural experience at the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. Guests will immerse themselves in Rwanda’s rich traditions and heritage, enjoying local dances, traditional music, and handcrafted arts, while gaining insight into the daily life, customs, and history of Rwandan communities.
Afterward, transfer to the lodge for check-in and refresh, followed by dinner.
Overnight: Virunga Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board (Dinner, Breakfast, and Lunch)
Pick-up Time: 05:00AM. After an early breakfast at the lodge, receive a packed lunch and mineral water to carry in your backpack. Proceed to the park for a prior briefing.
Volcanoes Gorilla Tracking Experience – After completing park formalities, embark on an exclusive trek to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas. Journey through the breathtaking slopes of the Virunga Mountains, guided by expert trackers, as you navigate the misty, emerald forests where these majestic primates reside. Upon locating the gorilla family, enjoy a full hour of privileged observation and photography, experiencing their playful interactions and powerful presence up close. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure combines excitement, natural wonder, and an unforgettable encounter with one of the world’s most iconic species. For your safety and comfort, wear hiking boots, long trousers, a face mask, and gloves, and carry insect repellent and a water bottle. If the trek extends beyond the usual duration, your ranger guide will select a safe spot for a picnic lunch during or after the trek.
After an unforgettable trek, return to the lodge and spend the remainder of the day at your leisure. Take the opportunity to relax, enjoy the lodge’s amenities, or attend to personal engagements, followed by a delicious dinner at the lodge.
Overnight: Virunga Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Journey Time: Approx. 2 Hours
Pick-up Time: 06:00AM. After an early breakfast at the lodge, leave your luggage securely at reception before departing for the park’s Kinigi office for a prior briefing.
Planned Activity: Hike to the Tomb of Dian Fossey – Arrive by 07:00AM for a briefing, followed by a scenic 30-minute drive to the base of Mount Bisoke. Embark on an inspiring hike that blends adventure with education, tracing the remarkable work of Dian Fossey, the American primatologist who devoted her life to studying and conserving endangered mountain gorillas. As you ascend the slopes of Mount Bisoke and Karisimbi, take in breathtaking landscapes and keep an eye out for gorillas in their natural habitat. Also included is a visit to Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, offering insight into ongoing conservation efforts.
Return to the lodge for lunch before departing for Lake Kivu. Upon arrival at Kivu, proceed to check in at your hotel for leisure and relaxation, with dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel – or similar
Meal Plan: Half Board (Dinner and Breakfast)
Pickup Time: 08:00AM. Start the day with breakfast at the hotel, then set out to explore Lake Kivu by boat, and continue the adventure with a guided mountain bike tour through the vibrant and hilly lakeside villages. Lunch and dinner will be served at the hotel.
The day’s major adventures: Embark on a 2-hour boat cruise on Lake Kivu to Napoleon Island, where you will witness a large colony of fruit bats, majestic bird species including the African fish eagle, and the charm of traditional shoreline fishing villages. In the late afternoon, enjoy a guided mountain bike adventure through the region’s dramatic terrain, taking in breathtaking landscapes and connecting with nature and local communities. Cap the experience with a stunning lakeside sunset, creating memorable moments for the entire group. Dinner and a restful overnight stay at your hotel.
Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel – or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Journey Time: Approx. 4 Hours
Pickup Time: 08:00AM. Today is your departure day! Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out and departing for Kigali. Upon arrival, savor a delightful lunch at Hemingways Retreat Kigali, followed by a comfortable transfer to Kigali Int. Airport for check-in ahead of your onward flight. We recommend scheduling flights from 7:00PM onwards to ensure a relaxed and seamless transfer.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch at a restaurant.
