Rwanda Wildlife, Culture and Heritage

per person

This 10 days Rwanda tour starts and ends from Kigali. You will visit Butare, Rwanda’s second largest city with a number of attractions including the National Museum, botanical gardens & Rugarama hot-springs. You will go to Nyungwe forest – one of the most beautiful & pristine mountains rain-forests for a guided chimpanzee walk. After the chimp tracking experience, you will visit Kibuye and relax at the fabulous Lake Kivu. Possibly you will also take a boat cruise or Swim in the water. A speed boat to Gisenyi will get you to see some of the fishing villages and you can also cross the border to Goma (DRC). You will also have a chance to visit some of the orphanages founded after the 1994 genocide.

This trip also takes you to the Virunga Volcanoes where you get to enjoy an amazing gorilla trekking experience. This is one of the best highlights for most trips to Rwanda.

From here you will end the tour with a city tour of Kigali, visiting some of the most popular places including the local markets, genocide memorials and other interesting places.

15-Day Rwanda Wildlife, Culture, and Heritage Safari

Overview
This 15-day safari is designed to give you an in-depth experience of Rwanda’s wildlife, culture, and heritage. You will visit national parks, track gorillas and golden monkeys, explore cultural sites, and engage with local communities.

Safari Highlights:
– Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park
– Wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park
– Golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park
– Cultural visits to local communities
– Exploring Kigali Genocide Memorial and King’s Palace
– Boat trips on Lake Kivu and visits to tea plantations

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and prepare for your adventure.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel
– Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel
– Budget: Yambi Guesthouse

Day 2: Kigali City Tour
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Kigali. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and cultural centers. Learn about Rwanda’s history and vibrant culture. Return to your hotel for overnight.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel
– Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel
– Budget: Yambi Guesthouse

Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, drive to Akagera National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive to spot animals like elephants, lions, and giraffes. Check in to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Magashi Camp
– Mid-range: Akagera Game Lodge
– Budget: Ruzizi Tented Lodge

Day 4: Full Day in Akagera National Park
Spend the day exploring Akagera National Park with morning and afternoon game drives. In between, relax at your lodge or enjoy a boat trip on Lake Ihema, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Magashi Camp
– Mid-range: Akagera Game Lodge
– Budget: Ruzizi Tented Lodge

Day 5: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to a rich diversity of primates and birds. Enjoy the scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and relax.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House
– Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
– Budget: Gisakura Guest House

Day 6: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe
Early morning, head out for chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest. Guided by experienced trackers, you will hike through the forest to locate a group of chimpanzees. Spend an hour observing these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. Return to your lodge for relaxation.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House
– Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
– Budget: Gisakura Guest House

Day 7: Canopy Walk and Nature Walks in Nyungwe
After breakfast, experience the thrilling canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest, offering stunning views of the forest from above. In the afternoon, enjoy guided nature walks to explore the park’s rich biodiversity.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House
– Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
– Budget: Gisakura Guest House

Day 8: Transfer to Lake Kivu
After breakfast, drive to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax by the lake.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
– Mid-range: Cormoran Lodge
– Budget: Paradise Malahide

Day 9: Boat Trip on Lake Kivu
After breakfast, take a boat trip on Lake Kivu, exploring the islands and enjoying the serene environment. Visit local fishing villages and interact with the communities. Return to your hotel for relaxation.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
– Mid-range: Cormoran Lodge
– Budget: Paradise Malahide

Day 10: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, transfer to Volcanoes National Park, famous for its mountain gorillas. Enjoy the scenic drive and check in to your lodge upon arrival. Prepare for the gorilla tracking adventure the next day.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Bisate Lodge
– Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
– Budget: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

Day 11: Gorilla Tracking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before starting your gorilla tracking adventure. Guided by experienced trackers, you will hike through the forest to find a gorilla family. Spend an unforgettable hour observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Return to your lodge for relaxation and reflection on the experience.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Bisate Lodge
– Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
– Budget: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

Day 12: Golden Monkey Tracking
After breakfast, embark on a golden monkey tracking adventure in Volcanoes National Park. These playful and endangered primates are a joy to watch. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to learn about the local culture and traditions.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Bisate Lodge
– Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
– Budget: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

Day 13: Visit Musanze Caves
After breakfast, visit the Musanze Caves, a fascinating geological formation with a rich history. Explore the caves with a guide and learn about their significance. Return to your lodge for relaxation.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Bisate Lodge
– Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
– Budget: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

Day 14: Transfer to Kigali
After breakfast, drive back to Kigali. Upon arrival, visit the King’s Palace Museum and the Ethnographic Museum to learn about Rwanda’s history and culture. Check in to your hotel for overnight.

Accommodation Options:
– Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel
– Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel
– Budget: Yambi Guesthouse

Day 15: Departure
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or a short city tour. You will then be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

Safari Inclusions
– Gorilla and golden monkey tracking permits
– Park entry fees
– Full-time English-speaking guide
– Transport in a comfortable 4WD safari vehicle
– Full board accommodation
– All activities mentioned in the itinerary
– Bottled drinking water

Safari Exclusions
– Any domestic or international flights
– Visa fees
– Personal travel insurance
– Optional activities and personal expenses
– Tips for guides and porters

Contact for Booking
For more information or to book your safari, contact us at:
– Email: info@nyiragongoexpedition.com
– Phone: +250 784 811 095

Join us for a 15-day Rwanda Wildlife, Culture, and Heritage Safari and discover the beauty and richness of Rwanda!

15 Days

12+ Age

Exotic

On Budget

Romantic

Sightseeing

Vacation

Destination

Rwanda
Departure

Kigali airport / Kigali airport
Departure Time

Please arrive by 9:15 AM for a prompt departure at 9:30 AM.
Return Time

Approximately 5:30 PM.
Dress Code

Casual, comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hat and light jacket.
Included

Rwanda Wildlife, Culture and Heritage

Entry Fees

Personal Guide

Breakfast
Not Included

Departure Taxes

5 Star Accommodation

FROM OUR GALLERY

Visit Ibyiwacu cultural village to learn about traditional Rwandan dancing, drumming, cooking and singing

Day 1: Arrive in Rwanda

When you arrive at Kigali airport you will be met by our driver /guide. He will then transfer you to Kigali city which is 30 minutes away for overnight stay & dinner. Accommodation at Hotel des Mille Collines, Hotel Chez Lando. Meal plan: Dinner.

Day 2: Kigali – Butare.

After breakfast you will depart for Butare, the second largest city of Rwanda and is regarded as the intellectual city of Rwanda. It hosts the National Museum, several academic (University) and research institutions. On your way to Butare you will visit Nyanza (currently Nyabisindu) the former Mwami’s palace (King’s palace) and the seat of the feudal monarchy. The palace has been reconstructed to its 19th century state and shows a traditional dome that can be compared with the Kabaka’s palace of Buganda. You will visit the National Museum which is one the well set-up if not the finest ethnographic museum of East Africa. It’s a good source of information on the cultural history of Rwanda and the region. The National Museum in Butare was donated in 1989 by the Belgium government and gave back a part of the ethnographic collection acquired during the colonial period. The design and concept of the museum was realized in co-operation with the Royal Museum for Central Africa of Tervuren, Belgium. The modern building has different sections and displays a wide collection of monochrome pictures, traditional artefacts and objects, tools and different craft products. Ethnographic objects are grouped together according to theme giving excellent information on the daily life. Traditional ceramics and basketry are still manufactured and belong to the finest handicrafts of the region. The National Museum remained surprisingly untouched during the civil war of 1994. Accommodation at Butare or Nyungwe.

Day 3: Butare Cultural visits

Visit the Botanical Gardens. Visit the locally revered hot springs in Rugarama. Lunch at Butare and later we will drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Your driver/guide will stop at the Uwinka offices to have the last update on the presence of the semi-habituated groups of chimps and colobus monkeys. This will help you to prepare your activities of the next day. Accommodation at Gisakura Guest House Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Nyungwe forest national park

Early morning visit to Nyungwe Forest for a guided nature walk and primate tracking. Of a particular interest are the large social groups of Angolan Colobus (Colobus angolensis), which may be over 300 individuals. These are the largest troops of this species known in the world! Nyungwe forest counts 25% of the African Primates. Accommodation at Gisakura Guest House Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Nyungwe Forest to Kibuye

Drive via Kibuye on the stunningly beautiful Lake Kivu to Gisenyi; through beautiful countryside, crossing valleys full of agricultural produce. Kibuye which is one of the three resort town on Lake Kivu is the most beautiful. Arrive at lunch time. After Nyungwe, most participants will welcome that relaxing moments on the shores of Lake Kivu! Take a boat out on the lake to see the various islands. Swim in the refreshing, bilharzias-free waters of the Lake or stroll about in the nearby villages rambling across a number of hills. Rest of the day at leisure. Lake Kivu is unique: Its deep waters contain an enormous quantity of dissolved gas. There are, in fact, 65 billion cubic meters of methane, in other words the equivalent of 50 million tonnes of petrol lying at the bottom of the lake under 250m of water. If it were exploited, this energy, veritable manna from heaven, would provide Rwanda with an almost inexhaustible source of energy, freeing it from worry about energy needs linked to its development projects. There is a pilot station for the extraction of methane for energy in this place. Accommodation at Molia Hill Resort Kibuye Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Kibuye – Gisenyi

After breakfast, either drive to, or you will have an enjoyable speed-boat trip to Gisenyi . The trip is not only an encounter with local people; fishermen, fishing villages but also with the residents of Idjwi Island (Congo) who are rowing long distances in their dugout canoes to visit the Rwanda markets. You will be picked up in Gisenyi for lunch and if time allows we make arrangements to cross the border to Goma (Optional). Goma was devastated by the eruption of the Nyiragongo volcano. The visit shows the fantastic capabilities of the local population to overcome this natural catastrophe. The Nyiragongo volcano (3470 m) erupted on the 17th of January 2002 and destroyed part of Goma town. Most of Goma’s 400 000 inhabitants escaped the advancing lava flows crossing the border into neighbouring Rwanda. The eruption destroyed the homes of 120 000 people and caused between 70 and 100 victims. Idjwi is an island in Lake Kivu, belonging to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. At 40 km in length and with an area of 285 km², it is believed to be the largest inland island in Africa, and the eighth largest in the world. Idjwi is roughly equidistant between the DRC and Rwanda, with 10 to 15 kilometres separating its western shore from the DRC mainland and a similar distance between its eastern shore and the coastline of Rwanda. The island’s southern tip, however, lies only 1 kilometre from a promontory of the Rwandan coast. Accommodation at Stipp Hotel or Serena Kivu Sun Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Gisenyi – Kinigi

Visit Ross Carr’s Imbabazi Orphanage. Stroll about at lake and visit other local villages. Imbabazi Orphanage was founded by Mrs Rosamond Halsey Carr in late 1994 at Mugongo to care for the genocide orphans. Rosamond Halsey was a young American fashion illustrator when she married an adventurous hunter-explorer, Kenneth Carr. Together they journeyed to then “Congo Belge” (now Congo DRC) in 1949 but where they later came to a pungent divorce. Kenneth left but Rosamond stayed in Congo until 1955. From there on she moved to northwest Rwanda where she stayed for the next 50 years. She witnessed all Rwanda’s historical events, including the vinegary genocide of 1994. She is the author of “Land of a Thousand Hills: my life in Rwanda.” Have Lunch then transfer to Ruhengeri & Kinigi, check into your lodge. Accommodation at Hotel La Palme, Virunga Hotel, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking

After breakfast you will report at the ORTPN headquarters where your driver-guide will accomplish the necessary formalities for you. You will meet your ranger guide(s) for a briefing about the greatest animal experience ever. Then we will drive you to the slopes of one of the Virunga volcanoes for your gorilla trekking experience. After the trekking, lunch at your lodge or at Ruhengeri and in the afternoon, if time allows, an excursion to explore the beautiful lakes in the region: Lake Bulera & Ruhondo. An excellent view of the Virunga chain of Volcanoes can be seen while there depending on weather conditions. Accommodation at Hotel La Palme, Virunga Hotel, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Second gorilla trekking or another activity – Transfer to Kigali

Second gorilla tracking (subject to availability and payment for gorilla permit supplement); or do one of the other options (at extra cost). An excursion to the top of the Bisoke volcano (3.711 m) of which the distinctive feature is a beautiful crater lake. Or an excursion to the grave of Dian Fossey and the former Karisoke Research Centre. The excursion will provide excellent background information and this is a wonderful site to see. Or a visit to the Golden Monkeys: the little-known Golden Monkey (cercopithecus mitis kandti) is listed as “endangered”, the newly habituated groups of about 40 individuals are the only ones in Africa. The Kabatwa troop is located not so far from the Park Headquarters and the Musanga troop lives near the Karisimbi volcano and has a much longer walking distance. Or visit local communities and visit to the surrounding communities. Visit the Batwa pygmies and other local communities then later transfer to Kigali city after your lunch. Accommodation at Chez Lando Hotel or Mille Collines Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Kigali visit and departure

Today, you will go for a tour of Kigali city including a visit to the local markets, the handicraft shops and the Genocide Memorial Centre at Gisozi, which takes a few hours – such a touching visit! Time permitting, visit the Nyabugogo market, the Moslem quarter in Nyamirambo, and the Franco-Rwanda cultural centre. Many hotels and restaurants here prepare local dishes. Buy some crafts and other items as souvenirs. Genocide Memorials: In Rwanda you will find all over the country Memorials to remember the genocide of 1994. The most important Genocide Memorials are those of Kigali (Gisozi) and Murambi (Gikongoro) and the most prominent one at Nyamata (some 70km south of Kigali) where the history of the genocide is explained. A visit to the genocide memorial is for most visitors an emotional event. Transfer to Airport for departure. Meal plan: Breakfast & Lunch

End of tour

TOUR LOCATION

This trip also takes you to the Virunga Volcanoes where you get to enjoy an amazing gorilla trekking experience. This is one of the best highlights for most trips to Rwanda.

History of the City

Rwanda was made up of several ethnic groups but there have always been roughly three socio-economic groupings: the Tutsi, the Hutu and the Twa. The Tutsi have always made up a small, but prominent wealthy echelon of society, the Hutu have traditionally been farmers and the majority in the country, while the Twa have always been a marginalized minority. The groups were unified in the 19th century when King Kigeri Rwabuguri established a state. Everything changed in the 1920’s with the arrival of the Belgian colonists. The Belgians are known to have been harsh rulers, using divide and conquer tactics to retain power. The Belgians intensified socio-economic divisions by financially supporting the minority Tutsis. The well-financed Tutsi population became puppets of the Belgian regime at the expense of the large Hutu population which was unfairly treated. With the wave of decolonization that hit the African continent, the Belgian rulers were forced to exit Rwanda, and conceded power to the large and increasingly powerful Hutu majority. It was this decision which sparked the ethnic violence in the country which ultimately led to the genocide in 1994. Over a period of 100 days, Hutu extremists called the Interahamwe embarked on a crusade to kill all Tutsis and even moderate Hutus. They nearly succeeded, wiping out nearly one million Tutsis and moderates. The genocide is particularly tragic when considering the definite lack of response from the international community. The United Nations and large superpowers reacted only once a significant majority had been killed and, some have argued, did little to stop the events. Today Rwanda has done a commendable job of navigating the uphill journey to healing and reconciliation. The words “Hutu” and “Tutsi” are taboo, with most people asserting that they are simply Rwandan. More information about the genocide and Rwanda’s history can be found at the Gisozi Genocide Memorial Center in Kigali.

Culture

Despite the country’s turbulent political past, Rwanda boasts a rich and diverse culture which spans centuries. Very few external influences have managed to infiltrate the culture, which is admirable considering the prolonged period of Belgian rule to which the country was subjected. Rwandan music is an integral part of both daily life and traditional ceremonies, with different regional groups contributing different sounds, instruments and dances to the national culture. Intore is one of the most famous musical performances which consists of ballet-style dancing, more traditional African dancing and a highly impressive drumming routine. As with most East African cultures, clothing in Rwanda is a representation of culture, family and in more rural communities, ranking. Female dresses worn in traditional communities are called mushanana, which are generally made from wonderfully ornate, hand-woven materials. Rwanda also has a proud tradition of crafting which can be seen in most of the handicrafts sold at local markets. Many items are painstakingly made by hand, including grass items like baskets and mats, and wooden items like bowls and masks. While the handicrafts are great for souvenirs and decorations, they are made traditionally to perform important functions in the home.

Comments:

TASHA STEWART

November 7, 2016 at 11:37 am

My fiance and I had never been to rwanda, but wanted to plan a unique elopement trip to this place. We had no idea where to start, and turned to some internet research to find the services of this agency and eventually connect with the team at this travel agency. From the first email exchange, we knew that our travel consultant and her team would be our travel company.Thanks a lot Moses.
JUDITH BROWN

November 7, 2016 at 11:40 am

I cannot speak highly enough about our 3 week trip to this place and the services provided by this travel company. Everything was seamless. The private guides were interesting and knowledgable. We felt that they were more than just guides. It was like we had a friend in each city.

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Accomodation

Destination

Meals

Overall

Transport

Value For Money

ADDITIONAL INFO

INCLUDED

Transport in a 4WD vehicle with pop-up roof.
All fuel for the tour
English speaking Ugandan driver/guide.
Accommodation and Meals on Full Board (Breakfast Lunch and Dinner)
Park-entrance fees for all National parks
All activities described in the itinerary
1 Chimp permit per person
1 Gorilla permit per person.
Drinking water throughout the safari.

NOT INCLUDED

International air fares
Entry visa Uganda
Meals that are not part of your accommodation.
A porter for during the gorilla tracking’s (someone who carries your daypack).
Personal (medical/travel) insurance
Tips and gratuities to rangers, driver/guide, porter, hotel staff, etc.
All expenses of personal nature (e.g. drinks, laundry, optional activities, souvenirs etc.)

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