5 Days Rwanda Gorilla & Chimpanze

If you’ve ever dreamed of coming face to face with mountain gorillas or listening to the energetic calls of chimpanzees echoing through a rainforest, this 5-day Rwanda safari brings that dream to life. Carefully designed by Experiya Tour Company, this journey takes you deep into the heart of Rwanda’s most iconic natural treasures Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe National Park.

Beyond the wildlife encounters, this experience immerses you in Rwanda’s breathtaking scenery rolling green hills, mist-covered mountains, and vibrant rural life. Each day unfolds a new layer of beauty, culture, and adventure, making this safari not just a trip, but a meaningful journey.

Why This Safari is Special

This safari is unique because it combines two of Africa’s most sought-after primate experiences into one seamless itinerary. On one hand, you will trek through bamboo forests and volcanic slopes in search of endangered mountain gorillas. On the other, you will explore one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, tracking lively chimpanzees as they swing through the canopy.

In between, you will travel through Rwanda’s scenic countryside, visit cultural landmarks like the King’s Palace Museum, and enjoy warm hospitality in comfortable lodges. Every moment feels thoughtfully planned yet naturally immersive.

Trip Highlights at a Glance

A scenic drive through Rwanda’s famous “Land of a Thousand Hills”
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
A cultural stop at the King’s Palace Museum
Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest
Opportunities to see multiple primate species
Relaxing stays in carefully selected lodges
Personalized guiding throughout the journey

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your adventure begins the moment you land at Kigali International Airport, where your guide from Experiya Tour Company will be waiting to welcome you with a warm smile.

After a short briefing, you will set off on a scenic drive northwards. Almost immediately, you will notice why Rwanda is often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” The road winds through lush green landscapes, dotted with small farms, colorful homes, and bustling roadside markets.

As you approach Volcanoes National Park, the scenery becomes even more dramatic. The towering Virunga volcanoes rise in the distance, often shrouded in mist, creating a magical first impression. By the time you arrive at your lodge in Ruhengeri, you will already feel immersed in Rwanda’s natural beauty.

You can spend the evening relaxing, enjoying a delicious meal, and preparing for the highlight of your trip the gorilla trek.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Today is the day many travelers dream about for years.

You will start early with breakfast before heading to the park headquarters in Kinigi. Here, park rangers will brief you on the trekking rules and assign you to a specific gorilla family.

Soon after, the real adventure begins.

Accompanied by experienced guides, you will enter the dense forest, hiking through bamboo groves, muddy trails, and sometimes steep slopes. The trek can take anywhere from one hour to several hours, depending on where the gorillas are located. While it may feel challenging at times, every step builds anticipation.

Then, suddenly, everything becomes quiet.

You find them.

A family of mountain gorillas, calmly going about their day feeding, grooming, playing, and resting. For one unforgettable hour, you will observe them up close. You might lock eyes with a silverback, watch young gorillas tumble playfully, or simply sit in awe of their presence.

It is a deeply moving experience one that often leaves travelers speechless.

Afterward, you will trek back down and return to your lodge, where you can relax, reflect, and relive the magic of the day.

Day 3: Scenic Journey to Nyungwe National Park

After breakfast, you will begin your journey to Nyungwe National Park, located in the southwestern part of the country.

This drive is long but incredibly rewarding. Along the way, you will pass through terraced hillsides, tea plantations, and picturesque villages that offer a glimpse into daily Rwandan life.

A highlight of the day is a stop at the King’s Palace Museum. Here, you will step back in time and learn about Rwanda’s royal history. You can explore the traditional palace structure and even see the famous long-horned royal cows, known for their cultural significance.

After this cultural experience, you will continue your journey, eventually arriving at Nyungwe Forest. As one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, Nyungwe feels completely different from Volcanoes National Park denser, quieter, and filled with the sounds of birds and primates.

You will check into your lodge and spend the evening relaxing, surrounded by nature.

Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest

Your day begins early, as chimpanzees are most active in the morning.

After breakfast, you will head into the forest with your guide. Unlike gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking often involves listening carefully for their calls and moving quickly through the forest to locate them.

The experience feels dynamic and exciting.

You might hear branches shaking above you or sudden bursts of loud vocalizations. When you finally find them, you will see chimpanzees swinging through trees, playing, grooming, and interacting with one another.

Although sightings are not always guaranteed, the thrill of tracking them through such a rich ecosystem makes the experience worthwhile.

Nyungwe is also home to an incredible variety of other primates. As you explore, you may encounter:

Rwenzori colobus monkeys moving in large groups
L’Hoest’s monkeys hiding in the forest
Silver monkeys leaping through trees
Grey cheeked mangabeys foraging on the forest floor

After your trek, you will return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. This is a perfect time to unwind, reflect, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the rainforest.

Day 5: Return to Kigali & Departure

On your final day, you will enjoy a relaxed breakfast before beginning your journey back to Kigali.

The drive offers one last chance to take in Rwanda’s stunning landscapes. You may choose to stop for photos, souvenirs, or a quick cultural visit along the way.

Upon arrival in Kigali, your guide will drop you off at the airport or your preferred location.

As your safari comes to an end, you will leave with unforgettable memories from the quiet gaze of a mountain gorilla to the lively energy of chimpanzees in the wild.

What’s Included in Your Safari

Gorilla trekking permit
Chimpanzee tracking permit
All park entry fees
Professional English-speaking guide
Private 4×4 safari vehicle
Accommodation for 4 nights
Meals as specified in the itinerary
Bottled drinking water
Airport transfers

What’s Not Included

International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (laundry, tips, souvenirs)
Optional activities
Alcoholic and soft drinks

Important Travel Tips

To make the most of your safari, it is important to come prepared. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking both require a moderate level of fitness, as you will be walking through forests and uneven terrain.

Be sure to pack:

Comfortable hiking boots
A lightweight rain jacket
Insect repellent
Long-sleeved clothing
A good camera

Most importantly, follow the instructions of your guides at all times. This ensures both your safety and the protection of the wildlife.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Rwanda safari is more than just a wildlife trip it is a journey into some of Africa’s most pristine and awe-inspiring environments. From the misty mountains of Volcanoes National Park to the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe National Park, every moment is filled with discovery.

With Experiya Tour Company guiding your experience, you can travel with confidence, knowing every detail has been carefully arranged.

If you are looking for a safari that combines adventure, culture, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, this is truly one of the best experiences Rwanda has to offer.