Primate Encounters

Price

Inclusions

• All transfers in private vehicle
• Bilingual drivers and guides throughout
• 5 nights Luxury accommodation
• 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

Exclusions

• Required primate trekking permits, currently $1850/person for 1 x gorilla and 1 x chimp permit

Map

Itinerary

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  Day 1 - Arrive Kigali

  Arrive Kigali Airport. After completion of customs and immigration formalities you will be met at the airport by a representative who will brief you on your trip and introduce you to your safari driver-guide. Thereafter transfer to Kigali Serena Hotel. Rest of day at leisure.

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    Kigali Serena Hotel (Deluxe)

    On an enchanting boulevard in the heart of Kigali, just a five-minute walk from the central business district lies Kigali Serena Hotel. The hotel offers unparalleled views of the surrounding hills and the bustling cityscape below. 

    Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a stunning lobby adorned with contemporary African art and intricate Rwandan crafts, setting the tone for an immersive cultural experience. The 5-star hotel boasts 148 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each meticulously designed to offer the utmost comfort and style. From plush bedding to spacious work areas, every detail is crafted to ensure a memorable stay. Each room’s design and detailing reflect the hotel’s Pan-African heritage with sophisticated furnishings perfectly complemented by plush fabrics in bright color palettes. All accommodation at Kigali Serena comes with complimentary high-speed Internet.

    After a busy day exploring Rwanda's capital, guest can relax in the tranquility of the tropically landscaped pool, or indulge themselves with a hot stone massage or a nature-based body wrap at Maisha Mind Body & Spirit Spa a sanctuary of peace and tranquility that fully embraces a holistic approach to wellness. Maisha blends contemporary science with ancient therapies to craft a replenishing experience that balances your mind, soothes your soul and nourishes your body. Free of distractions, interruptions or intrusions, the spa is your own secluded retreat for quiet contemplation and relaxation.

    Wellness facilities also include a state-of-the-art gymnasium and cardio studio; an aerobic studio offering workouts including kickboxing, dance, yoga, Tai chi and stretch and sculpture; and a self-service juice bar.

    Take a table at one of Kigali Serena Hotel's restaurants for a culinary experience unlike any other in Kigali. Experienced chefs to transport you on an alluring journey showcasing the authentic delicacies of Rwanda alongside enticing specialties from around the world. No matter which restaurant you choose, be prepared to savor innovative menus with bold flavors, using only the finest locally sourced meats, seafood and produce selected from known farmers and providers. 

    Milima Restaurant serves up a delectable array of international cuisine, while the Sokoni Café offers a more casual dining experience with its selection of light bites and freshly brewed coffee. For those seeking a taste of local flavors, the specialty Rwandan dishes at The Pool Bar & Terrace provide a true gastronomic adventure.

    Serena Kigali hotel provides a private and peaceful retreat like no other for discerning travelers. 

    Breakfast is included in your stay. 

    Kigali Serena Hotel  (Deluxe)
• 

  Day 2 - Volcanoes National Park (B,L,D)

  Morning tour of Kigali City and visit to the Genocide Museum. Lunch in a local restaurant. Depart on a scenic drive west wards to Ruhengeri, the base for Gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park. The town has magnificent views of the surrounding volcanoes. Check in to your accommodation for the following 2 nights, Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge. 

   

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    Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge (Luxury)

    Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge is a quietly luxurious community-owned lodge offering unforgettable mountain primate trekking in the foothills of the mist-shrouded Virunga Massif, Volcanoes National Park.

    At Sabyinyo, the true spirit of conservation and rehabilitation can be felt everywhere: in the community-inspired luxurious lodge, the bountiful organic gardens, upliftment projects, abundant wildlife and, of course, the star attraction: Volcanoes National Park’s beloved mountain gorillas, and curious golden monkeys, among many other primates.

    Accommodation at Sabyinyo comprises six charming stone cottages, two luxurious suites with king-size four-poster beds and one spacious family unit with two separate bedrooms. Each elegant cottage features large sitting areas, fireplaces, stylish en-suite bathrooms and a sheltered veranda with cinematic views over the volcanoes.

    Meals at Sabyinyo are designed with sustainability in mind, using healthy, flavorful recipes that tread lightly on the Earth. Daily harvests from the organic vegetable gardens inspire a menu of traditional dishes sprinkled with cosmopolitan flair.

    At Wilderness Sabyinyo, get up close to the stories of the land, the wilderness, the wildlife and people. Just by staying here, you contribute to wildlife conservation and community empowerment initiatives. You will feel the power of resilience and hope all around you.

     

     

    Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge  (Luxury)
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  Day 3 - Volcanoes National Park (B,L,D)

  After an early breakfast, transfer to the Park headquarters for a briefing and group placement.

  There is a maximum of 12 groups with a maximum of eight trekkers per group. After the briefing, trekkers drive up the mountain to the starting point. Trekking can take from two to six hours, including the magnificent hour spent with the gorillas. After your primate experience, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, time and weather permitting, visit the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.

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  Day 4 - Nyungwe Forest National Park (B,L,D)

  After breakfast, travel by road to Nyungwe National Park; a rainforest reserve which has 260 species of trees, shrubs and over 100 species of orchids and giant lobelias. For those interested in botany, the flora in Nyungwe is an added bonus. Check in to your accommodation for the following two nights, One&Only, Nyungwe House.

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    One & Only Nyungwe House (Luxury)

    In a forest rich with flora that has thrived for millions of years, within the lush green expanse of a working tea plantation, One&Only Nyungwe House is a transformed, idyllic eco retreat offering once-in-a lifetime experiences in the heart of magical Rwanda.

    Situated in five striking wooden villa clusters, the treetop-skimming, luxury treehouses and villas are secluded in wonderfully untamed, National Park surroundings.

    Trek to encounter the rare Mangabey monkey, lively in its own playground, where majestic mahoganies, delicate orchids, and exotic butterflies magically surround you. Soak up the knowledge of local elders who share the secrets of survival in this remote jungle environment.

    Delve into the rich history and heritage of Rwanda, with enlightening cultural experiences. From local crafts to immersive village visits, authenticity is at the heart of these captivating activities.

    Then unravel within One&Only’s beautifully re-imagined spaces, where every creature comfort is at your fingertips. From evening cocktails by the crackling fire pit and gastronomic feasts on the elevated deck, to soothing indigenous therapies in the warm jungle air and relaxing on your private deck before the theatre of nature, this is the Rwanda every traveler should experience.

     

    One & Only Nyungwe House  (Luxury)
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  Day 5 - Nyungwe Forest National Park (B,L,D)

  Early breakfast at your lodge and then hike into Nyungwe Forest, the natural habitat for a huge population of Chimps. Chimpanzees are great apes that are closely related to humans. The forest also harbors more than 275 endemic and migratory bird species. After the trek, have lunch back at your lodge. Afternoon at leisure or re-enter the forest to visit Colobus Monkeys, do the canopy walk, visit the Kamiranzovu waterfall or other activities (optional, at extra cost).

   

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  Day 6 - Depart Kigali (B)

  After breakfast, drive 5 hours back to Kigali airport for departure.