7-Day Primates Delight
A seven-day primate adventure tracking mountain gorillas, golden monkeys and chimpanzees across Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu and Nyungwe National Park, with the opportunity to trek two different gorilla families.
Tour Overview
Seven days across Rwanda's forests and lakes on the Primates Delight tour. This seven-day itinerary includes encounters with rare primates, with the opportunity to trek two different gorilla families and truly connect with these majestic creatures.
Each day brings a new sense of wonder as you journey through mist-covered rainforests, track chimpanzees and golden monkeys, and explore the rich cultural tapestry of Rwanda. Inland Africa Safaris ensures every detail is carefully planned, from your arrival in Kigali to the final moments by Lake Kivu, making your adventure seamless, insightful, and deeply memorable.
Highlights
- Track mountain gorillas and spend an hour with a gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park
- Track playful, colourful golden monkeys through the bamboo forest
- Track chimpanzees in Nyungwe's montane rainforest
- Walk high above the trees on Nyungwe's suspended canopy walkway
- Reflect at the Kigali Genocide Memorial and learn at the Dian Fossey Museum
- Unwind by the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu
- Expert local guides and park rangers lead every trek
- Six nights across Kigali, Volcanoes, Lake Kivu and Nyungwe (luxury upgrade available)
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Kigali - A Warm Welcome to Rwanda
Your adventure begins the moment you step off the plane in Kigali, where the Inland Africa Safaris team greets you with warmth and excitement. As you journey from the airport to your accommodation, the vibrant city unfolds before you, its rolling hills, bustling markets and lively streets offering a preview of the country's beauty. Your evening is spent unwinding at your hotel, savoring the anticipation of the experiences to come.
Kigali Memorial Tour and Journey to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, your journey takes a thoughtful turn as you visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for an audio self-guided tour, delving into Rwanda's past and its remarkable journey toward peace and resilience. Following a reflective morning, enjoy a scenic drive toward Volcanoes National Park, watching Kigali's urban landscape give way to terraced hills, vibrant green valleys and the majestic Virunga Mountains. Arrive at your lodge near the park, relax over dinner and prepare for your first encounter with the mountain gorillas.
Gorilla Trekking and Dian Fossey Museum
Awake to anticipation as the adventure truly begins. After a morning briefing at park headquarters, set off into the mist-shrouded forest, following expert guides to one of the gorilla families that call Volcanoes National Park home. Spend the hour watching the family interact, seeing playful youngsters, nurturing mothers and the gentle silverback. After your trek, return to your lodge to refresh before visiting the Dian Fossey Museum to learn about the conservation efforts that protect these endangered animals.
Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Lake Kivu
Wake to another exciting day in the forests of Volcanoes National Park as you set off to track the lively and colorful golden monkeys. These energetic creatures dart through the trees, their bright orange fur flashing through the green foliage as they leap from branch to branch. After your morning with the golden monkeys, enjoy a scenic drive to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu. Upon arrival at Cormoran Lodge, envelop yourself in serenity with stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.
Transfer to Nyungwe and Canopy Walk
Following a leisurely breakfast by Lake Kivu, continue your journey to Nyungwe National Park, home to montane rainforest and an incredible array of biodiversity. After arriving, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch before embarking on the Canopy Walk. This suspended walkway offers a view over the dense forest below and the wildlife within it. Return to your lodge for dinner and the evening.
Chimpanzee Tracking and Optional Activities
Today, rise early for a thrilling chimpanzee tracking experience in Nyungwe's dense forest. As you trek through the thick undergrowth, the calls of the chimps guide you to their territory. Spend time observing their lively interactions and intricate social structures, a fascinating experience with one of our closest animal relatives. After lunch, choose an optional activity such as tracking colobus monkeys or hiking to a nearby waterfall. Unwind in the evening at your lodge.
Return to Kigali
Your final day begins with a scenic flight from Kamembe back to Kigali, where your guide meets you at Kigali International Airport for a Kigali city tour and shopping. After the city tour, transfer to the airport for your onward arrangements or continue to other activities in Kigali. Inland Africa Safaris ensures every detail of your trip is handled.
What's Included
- Private 4x4 vehicle with an experienced driver-guide
- Six nights in a combination of mid-range lodges and hotels with full board in the national parks
- Gorilla, chimpanzee and golden monkey tracking permits
- All meals during your stay in national parks and breakfast in Kigali
- Cultural experiences: visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and Dian Fossey Museum
Permits are priced for international guests. Rwandans, East African Community residents and other African nationals enjoy discounted rates on gorilla, chimpanzee and golden monkey permits. Inquire for a customized quotation.
What's Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Travel insurance and visa fees
- Optional activities such as spa treatments or extended stays
Luxury accommodation upgrades and extra nights near Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu or Nyungwe are available at an additional cost.
Your Accommodation
This package includes mid-range stays across Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu and Nyungwe National Park. Request a luxury upgrade when submitting your quotation.
Mid-range hotel in Kigali
1 NightA comfortable Kigali hotel offering Rwandan hospitality and modern comfort, the perfect retreat after your flight and before the journey ahead.
Mid-range lodge near Volcanoes NP
2 Nights, Full BoardA cozy lodge near Volcanoes National Park with views of the volcanic peaks, warm hospitality and full-board dining.
Lakeside lodge at Lake Kivu
1 Night, Full BoardCormoran Lodge on the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.
Lodge near Nyungwe NP
2 Nights, Full BoardA lodge set inside Nyungwe National Park, home to montane rainforest, with full-board dining and a serene forest setting.
Upgrade to luxury lodges
OptionalUpgrade your lodge stays near Volcanoes and Nyungwe to luxury options. We will recommend the best available lodges for your dates. The upgrade supplement is quoted separately.
Know Before You Go
Physical Fitness
Moderate fitness required. Gorilla and chimpanzee treks cover uneven, sometimes steep rainforest terrain and last 3 to 6 hours. Chimpanzee tracking begins early in the morning.
Age Requirement
Gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking are restricted to ages 15 and above. Golden monkey tracking is open to ages 12 and above. Ask us about alternatives for younger children.
Trek Difficulty
Difficulty varies by gorilla family and chimpanzee group location. Share your fitness preference and rangers will assign a suitable group where possible.
Recommended Packing
Hiking boots with ankle support, long sleeves and pants, rain jacket, hat, sunglasses, light gloves, camera (no flash), and a reusable water bottle.
Photography
Cameras and smartphones welcome. Flash photography is strictly prohibited to protect the gorillas, chimpanzees and golden monkeys.
Dietary Requirements
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other needs can be accommodated when communicated in advance.
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season
June to September & December to February
Best trekking conditions with clearer trails. Permits are in highest demand, so book early.
Wet Season
March to May & October to November
Lusher scenery, fewer tourists, and the rainforest at its most vibrant. Trails can be muddy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Destinations on this journey
Kigali
Kigali is often treated as the place where a Rwanda journey begins. It deserves more time than that.
Volcanoes National Park
The approach to Volcanoes National Park is part of the experience: Rwanda's mountain-gorilla country and far more.
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is not simply where a Rwanda itinerary pauses: kayaking, coffee, trail stages and lakeside rest.
Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe is a forest of steep gradients, shifting light and layered sound: chimpanzees, canopy walks and Albertine Rift biodiversity.
Experiences included
Gorilla Trekking
Mountain-gorilla trekking in Rwanda begins before the forest walk: an encounter that cannot be predicted precisely.
Kigali City Experiences
A Kigali experience should not be a generic sequence of monuments, markets and souvenir stops.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Golden-monkey tracking brings a different energy to the Virunga forest: fast-moving, mobile and rewarding.
Canopy Walk
Nyungwe's canopy walkway changes how the forest is perceived: from the ground to the treetops above a ravine.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe is a pursuit through sound, movement and dense forest. Sightings are never guaranteed.
Helpful travel guides
Best Time to Visit Rwanda
How Rwanda's seasons can influence trekking, wildlife viewing, birding and road travel.
Last reviewed 2026-07-01
Rwanda Gorilla Permits Explained
How Rwanda gorilla permits work and why availability must be confirmed before travel.
Last reviewed 2026-07-01
Rwanda Visa Information
A planning checklist for verifying Rwanda entry requirements before travel.
Last reviewed 2026-07-01
Getting to Rwanda
Planning international arrival, airport transfers and onward travel from Kigali.
Last reviewed 2026-07-01
What to Pack for Rwanda
A practical packing framework for trekking, safari drives and changing Rwanda conditions.
Last reviewed 2026-07-01
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: The Complete Guide
Prepare for a mountain-gorilla trek in Rwanda with clear expectations about permits, terrain and responsible viewing.
Last reviewed 2026-07-01
Ready to track Rwanda's remarkable primates?
Every journey is shaped around your dates, fitness and interests. This adventure can also be extended with extra nights or a second gorilla trek.