The Land of a Thousand Hills Itinerary
Rwanda 8 days, Akagera, Nyungwe, Butare, Lake Kivu, Mountain Gorillas

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This safari brings you to the most interesting places of Rwanda. From the rocky highlands and the wet plains of Akagera National Park, home to the big African game, to the lush rainforest of Nyungwe with its unique primates. Enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Rwanda’s hills and the serenity of Lake Kivu’s shores. Visit the former King’s Palace and the National Museum. Track the mountain gorilla.

Day 1 - ARRIVAL
Meet on arrival at the airport. Transfer to Kigali.
Overnight in Kigali

The rocky parts of Akagera National Park Lake Muhazi in the Eastern province of Rwanda

Day 2 - AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
Early start to the Akagera National Park. As well as being home to the shy oribi and to the elusive topi, the Highlands afford a breathtaking view across the undulating hills, rolling grassland to the extensive series of lakes, linked by papyrus swamps. Elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, are some of the game roaming this peaceful heaven.  The bird life is also remarkable. The diverse habitats of the area are home to over 500 species of birds.
Overnight inside the Park

 

Rwanda men`s culture dance  Rwanda men`s culture dance

Day 3 - NYANZA - BUTARE
Drive to Kigali and continue via Gitarama to Nyanza to visit the former Mwami's palace. Enjoy some of the old war dances performed by young Intore dancers. After lunch, drive to Butare, where you can visit the National Museum. This museum is a must for anybody who is interested in African history. Tour the remarkable arboretum, time permitting.                                                                                      Overnight in Butare

 

Colobus in Nyungwe national park Chimps in Nyungwe national park

Day 4 - NYUNGWE FOREST
Covering 970 kmē, the Highlands provide a unique habitat for thirteen species of primates, including chimpanzees, l’Hoest’s and owl-faced monkeys. As you walk under the canopy of majestic trees, a large group of almost 400 semi wild Colobus monkeys can be seen feeding on wild figs and jumping from branch to branch. This high altitude jungle floor boasts some of the most beautiful and exquisite orchids in the world.
Overnight in Nyungwe National Park

 

A branch of Lake Kivu

Day 5 - LAKE KIVU
During the morning visit a tea factory, or have a second walk in the forest. En route to Kibuye, enjoy the fantastic views over Lake Kivu and its ragged shore. Experience the peaceful atmosphere of the calm and pristine waters of Africa’s highest lake from the terrace of your hotel.
Overnight in Kibuye

The evining view above the Volcanoes

Day 6 - LAKE KIVU AND VOLCANOES
After a refreshing early morning swim and a hearty breakfast, we take a leisurely drive to Gisenyi. There is plenty of opportunity for shopping in the local village market places. after lunch at a beach restaurant, we follow the road as it climbs to the base of the majestic volcanoes,  with spectacular views across the peaks. Arrive at Kinigi.                                                                                              Overnight near the Volcanoes National Park 

Day 7 - MOUNTAIN GORILLAS
Tracking the gorillas through the unique vegetation of the Volcanoes National Park can take several hours of challenging walking in the wet muddy conditions. To see a gorilla, makes the arduous
trek well worth it.                                                                                                                                              Overnight near the Volcanoes National Park

 

The mountain Gorillas

Day 8 *** - DEPARTURE                                                                                                                        Enjoy the views on he Bulera and Ruhondo lakes as you travel back to Kigali. Transfer to the airport.

*** Depending on your flight, a second gorilla visit can be organized, in that case, we would keep your room for to freshen up before driving straight back to the airport from the Volcanoes National Park.

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