This 10 Days Land of a thousand hills Tour features a selection of Rwandan destinations that offer a great way to unwind and discover a mix of authentic cultures and diverse wildlife species.
DAY 1: Arrive Kigali International Airport
On arrival at Kigali International Airport, our Gonja Safaris driver-guide will transfer you to your hotel in Kigali where you will spend much of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Lemigo Hotel (BB)
After a long journey, you need a comfortable treat, and that’s exactly what you will get at this hotel. Its gardens are green and frequently watered.
DAY 2: Drive to Nyungwe National Park
You will depart for Nyungwe National Park, and your way, you will visit the famous National Museum at Butare and the ancient King’s Palace at Nyanza. The beauty of the Rwandan traditional culture is well exhibited here using royal regalia that has been passed on for generations.
On the other hand, the Museum offers a deep understanding of life in Rwanda prior to its colonization in late 19th century-a time when both its political and cultural leadership was under a King.
You will thereafter continue to Nyungwe National Park. It is the largest tropical forest in East Africa, covering 970Km2 area that stretches to Burundi’s Kibira National park. It’s abundance of 250 tree species and 140 species of radiant Orchids makes in the most ecologically diverse setting in Rwanda.
Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hotel (FB)
This lodge commands incredible views of Nyungwe forest area thanks to its location atop one of the hills overlooking it. All your requests will be addressed promptly and graciously.
DAY 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Nature Walk
Wake up early morning and head to the briefing station for your Chimpanzee trekking.
Nyungwe National Park is the largest block of montane forest in East and Central Africa and has an incredibly rich biodiversity. Two chimpanzee groups are found here and the rangers will do their utmost to locate them. You will then enjoy a nature walk.
Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hotel (FB)
In your bed, you will find hot water bottles and soft pillows to keep you comfortable in the cold night.
DAY 4: Colobus Monkey Tracking + Canopy Walk
You will have the opportunity to do the Colobus Monkey trekking in the National Park. You will then go for your canopy walk in the forest to view the birds and monkeys that inhabit the upper storeys of the forest.
Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hotel (FB)
DAY 5: Depart for Kibuye
You will depart for Kibuye which lies at the eastern part of Lake Kivu. Nature nestled it along the borders of Congo and Rwanda, an extremely hilly landscape at the southern end of the Albertine Rift Valley. Kivu is a very scenic lake with deep blue waters. Its shoreline is lined up with public and private beaches. Kibuye is often hailed as one of the most scenic spots of the lake.
Overnight: Moriah Hills Resort (FB)
Like most staff, the chef here a genius too. His cuisines have an enriched taste and are presented with elegance. You will love the very generous portions.
DAY 6: Depart for Gisenyi
Your next destination is Gisenyi, Rwanda, the largest port on Lake Kivu. You are welcome to swim at Lake Kivu, enjoy a boat ride to one of the islands or simply explore the town, enjoying the hustle and bustle of the local market.
Overnight: Paradise Malahide hotel (FB)
On your arrival here, the hotel crew will greet you with an energetic traditional performance.
DAY 7: Depart for Ruhengeri
You will depart for Ruhengeri with a stop at the Imbabazi Orphanage where you will enjoy traditional local entertainment. You will then drive to the twin lakes of Bulera & Ruhondo.
Overnight: La Palme Hotel (FB)
It is a 21st century piece of luxury overlooking Lake Kivu. In the evening, you can take a stroll to the beach and enjoy its powder soft sand and impressive sunsets.
DAY 8: Gorilla Tracking
Your gorilla trek will start after a briefing by the rangers. You will locate and interact (under supervision) with a gorilla family. The guides will interpret the animals’ behavior and advice on what you are watching. You may take a village walk and visit the local market or visit the grave of famous primatologist Dian Fossey.
Overnight: La Palme Hotel (FB)
DAY 9: Golden Monkey Tracking + Intercultural Exchange
You will visit the golden monkey territory of Volcanoes National Park for Golden monkey trekking under a ranger’s guidance. You may later visit the Iby’iwacu cultural village to watch a cultural dance, meet a local medicine man, or discover the house of a local king.
Overnight: La Palme Hotel (FB).
DAY 10: City Tour and Shopping + Depart
You will enjoy the beauty of Rwanda’s Kigali. You may visit the craft market, Gisozi genocide memorial site, Kigali museum or do souvenir shopping. You will be at the airport in due time for your flight back home.
