A 5-day Rwanda adventure offers an incredible opportunity to trek endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and relax on the shores of Lake Kivu. The trip typically includes gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and potentially other activities like visiting the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund or exploring the Musanze Caves. After your adventures in Volcanoes National Park, you’ll head to Lake Kivu for relaxation and scenic boat rides or kayaking.
Day 1: Kigali City Tour and Travel to Volcanoes National Park
Begin your Rwanda Tour with a moving visit to the genocide memorial sites, where your guide shares insights into the country’s path to healing. This powerful Rwanda Tour experience continues with a 2.5-hour drive northwest to Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), the gateway to the gorilla country. Your afternoon Rwanda Tour includes an exploration of the Mayange Reconciliation Village, showcasing the remarkable spirit of the Rwandan people.
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Your Rwanda Tour reaches its pinnacle with an early morning drive to Kinigi, the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park, just 30 minutes from Musanze. This thrilling Rwanda Tour adventure involves a 2–6-hour trek through the misty forests of the Virungas to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The afternoon of your Rwanda Tour allows time for reflection and relaxation at your lodge while taking in views of the volcanic landscape.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park
The Rwanda Tour continues with an early morning golden monkey tracking experience in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. Your immersive Rwanda Tour includes afternoon cultural experiences at Iby’iwacu Village, where local traditions come alive through dance and storytelling. The day’s Rwanda Tour concludes with a visit to a traditional healer and learning about ancient Rwandan customs.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Travel from Volcanoes National Park to Lake Kivu
Today’s Rwanda Tour takes you on a scenic 3-hour journey from the volcanic highlands to the shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi (Rubavu). Your Rwanda Tour experience includes stops at local schools and the historic Imbabazi Orphanage, sharing stories of hope and resilience. The evening Rwanda Tour activities feature a sunset boat ride on Lake Kivu’s crystal-clear waters, accompanied by traditional songs from local fishermen.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Lake Kivu Tour and Travel to Kigali, Rwanda Airport
The final day of your Rwanda Tour begins with a morning exploration of Gisenyi’s colonial architecture and vibrant markets. Your Rwanda Tour continues with a 3-hour drive back to Kigali, where you’ll visit the prestigious Genocide Memorial and Natural History Museum. This transformative Rwanda Tour concludes with lunch at the historic Hotel des Mille Collines before your departure, leaving you with lasting memories of this remarkable country.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch