RWANDA WILDERNESS EXPEDITION
10 DAYS IN THE LAND OF THOUSAND HILLS RWANDA

Upon arrival at Kigali Airport, our representative from Bakyala Safaris will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, we'll embark on a city tour of Kigali, exploring genocide memorial sites, vibrant art galleries, bustling markets, and the inspiring Nyamirambo Women's Centre. Relax and unwind at the luxurious Heaven Boutique Hotel (King room) or The Retreat (High End) Meal Plan: Breakfast

Breakfast at the lodge and check out of the Lodge, meet your private Safari Guide and embark on a City tour of Kigali (if not done on Day 1) Drive to Akagera National Park (2.5 hours) Stopovers for tea and coffee en route. Arrival and check-in at Ruzizi Tented Lodge (Midrange) or Magashi Camp (High End) Relax at the lodge and later enjoy an evening game drive with sundowner
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Early morning game drive in Akagera National Park. Explore this transformed park, managed by Africa Parks, and witness the remarkable recovery of wildlife populations since the 1994 genocide you will spot an array of species, including lions, black rhinos, elephants, and giraffes Afternoon boat trip on Lake Ihema, cruise along the lake's shores and catch sight of hippos, crocodiles, and animals quenching their thirst
Overnight at Ruzizi Tented Lodge (Midrange) or Magashi Camp (High End)

Return to Kigali and drive to Volcanoes National Park (approx. 5 hours total journey time), upon arrival in Volcanoes National Park, home to the majestic mountain gorillas. In the afternoon, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla fund located just outside the Volcanoes National Park- to learn about the pioneering conservation work of Dr. Fossey and the ongoing efforts of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
Relax over dinner and overnight at your chosen lodge, Sambora Kinigi Lodge for Midrange and One and Only for High End
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Begin the day with an early breakfast, then head to the Volcanoes National Park offices by 7:00 AM. You'll be assigned to a gorilla tracking group and receive a comprehensive briefing from your expert trackers. Next, drive to the trailhead and embark on your thrilling trek. Once you encounter the majestic gorillas, spend a magical hour observing these incredible creatures up close.
Return to the base, where your driver will be waiting to transport you back to your lodge for lunch and a massage. In the afternoon, visit the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village (formerly known as the Ex-Poacher's Village), where you'll gain insight into traditional Rwandan practices, including fire-making, archery, medicine, and vibrant cultural dances
Overnight at your preferred lodge, Sambora Kinigi Lodge for Midrange and One and Only for High End
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a truly rewarding experience, just like the Gorilla trek you will be accompanied by park ranger guide for the Golden Monkey trek experience, this will be a relatively easier trek than the Gorilla Trek. Upon sighting the habituated family you will spend the allowed one hour with them as they go about their daily life. Watch in awe as they swing from one tree branch to another, the best photography opportunities arise when they settle down to feed
Lunch and a refreshing shower at the Lodge and drive to Gisenyi (Lake Kivu) a perfect place to relax after gorilla trekking, the gisenyi waterfront is lined with fading old mansions, hotels and trendy bars on the lake shore, ideal for sundowner cocktails – Overnight at Kivu Serena Hotel for upmarket, Paradise Malahindi for Midrange

Breakfast, then take a boat ride on Lake Kivu visiting the fishing villages. Have lunch at the lodge, and in the afternoon, explore Gisenyi town and interact with the locals. Spend your late afternoon at the beach, soaking in the African sun.
This day offers a relaxing and enriching experience, combining scenic beauty, cultural interaction, and leisure time by the lake. Enjoy your day on Lake Kivu!

Morning after breakfast transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park, enroute you will pass along the shores of Lake Kivu while enjoying beautiful views of the lake, upon arrival in Nyungwe
Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen lodge: Nyungwe Top View Lodge (midrange) or One and Only Nyungwe House (high end). In the afternoon, visit a nearby tea plantation, where you'll have the opportunity to engage with local farmers, learn about their experiences, challenges, and traditions, and forge new connections. Enjoy dinner and a relaxing overnight stay at your lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Following breakfast, embark on a thrilling Chimpanzee tracking experience in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Led by your expert ranger guide, hike through the lush forest, learning about the park's diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species and monkey types like the blue monkey, red-tailed monkey, and the black and white colobus monkey. Upon encountering the chimps, observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat, marveling at their playful and social interactions,
Please note that chimpanzee sightings are not guaranteed, with an approximate 40% chance of encountering these wide-ranging primates. Be prepared for a challenging hike, with varying weather conditions, and embrace the thrill of exploring Nyungwe Forest
After lunch and a relaxing break at the lodge, embark on a thrilling canopy walk along a suspended bridge, 70 meters above the forest floor. This guided walk on the 160-meter-long walkway offers breath-taking views of the Nyungwe Forest canopy. Please note that this activity may not be suitable for travelers with acrophobia (fear of heights) due to the elevated and potentially swaying walkway.
Overnight at Nyungwe Top View Lodge (midrange) or One and Only Nyungwe House (high end).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After a leisurely breakfast, check out of the hotel and embark on a scenic drive back to Kigali. En route, visit the historic Nyanza Palace and genocide memorial sites, gaining insight into Rwanda's rich cultural heritage and traumatic past. If time allows, explore Kigali's vibrant craft shops, where you can discover unique souvenirs and mementos. Finally, arrive at the airport and board your departure flight home, carrying cherished memories of your incredible journey.
The above itinerary serves as a guide. Please feel free to contact us to create a personalized, tailor-made package that suits your preferences and budget