6 Days Rwanda Chimpanzee Tracking and Mountain Gorilla Trekking Safari – Nyanza King’s Palace & Kibeho Pilgrimage

Safari Overview

Discover Rwanda on an unforgettable 6-day safari combining chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, a visit to the historic Nyanza King’s Palace and a spiritual pilgrimage to Kibeho.

This safari is specially designed for travellers who want to experience Rwanda’s remarkable primate diversity while exploring its cultural heritage and important religious destinations.

Your adventure begins in Kigali before travelling south to Nyanza, the historic centre of Rwanda’s traditional monarchy. Here, you will visit the King’s Palace Museum and learn about the country’s royal history, traditional leadership and cultural practices.

Continue to Kibeho, one of Africa’s recognised Catholic pilgrimage destinations, where visitors come to pray, reflect and learn about the reported Marian apparitions.

The journey then takes you to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest montane rainforests and an important habitat for wild chimpanzees. Spend a memorable morning tracking chimpanzees in their natural environment before travelling north to Volcanoes National Park for an extraordinary encounter with endangered mountain gorillas.

This six-day Rwanda safari combines wildlife encounters, cultural discovery, religious heritage and beautiful scenery into one rewarding experience.

Detailed 6-Day Rwanda Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Nyanza King’s Palace

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by your professional safari driver-guide. After a short briefing about your safari, begin your journey towards Nyanza in southern Rwanda.

Nyanza is historically significant as the former royal capital of Rwanda and an important centre of the country’s traditional monarchy.

Visit the King’s Palace Museum, where you will discover Rwanda’s royal heritage and learn about the country’s former kings, traditional leadership systems and cultural practices.

During your visit, explore the reconstructed traditional royal palace, which represents the architectural style of Rwanda’s historical monarchy. You will also learn about the Inyambo cattle, famous for their long horns and historical association with the royal court.

Other highlights include:

• Learning about Rwanda’s pre-colonial monarchy.

• Exploring traditional royal architecture.

• Discovering the cultural significance of Inyambo cattle.

• Understanding the history of Rwanda’s royal families.

• Visiting other nearby cultural heritage sites, subject to available time.

After the cultural experience, proceed to your accommodation in Huye for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Hotel in Huye.

Day 2: Huye – Kibeho Pilgrimage Centre – Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, depart Huye and travel towards Kibeho, located in Nyaruguru District in southern Rwanda.

Kibeho is an important Catholic pilgrimage destination internationally known for the reported Marian apparitions that began in 1981. The destination attracts pilgrims from Rwanda, neighbouring countries and different parts of the world.

Visit the Kibeho Marian Shrine, where you will have an opportunity to explore the sanctuary, spend time in prayer and learn about the religious history of the destination.

Activities at Kibeho may include:

• Visiting the Marian sanctuary.

• Learning about the reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

• Spending time in prayer and spiritual reflection.

• Attending Mass, depending on the church schedule.

• Meeting other pilgrims and experiencing the peaceful atmosphere.

After the pilgrimage experience, continue towards Nyungwe Forest National Park.

The drive takes you through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, characterised by rolling hills, tea plantations, rural settlements and spectacular mountain scenery.

Arrive at your lodge near Nyungwe Forest, check in and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Accommodation: Lodge near Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Today is dedicated to one of Rwanda’s most exciting wildlife experiences: chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Wake up early, enjoy breakfast and transfer to the designated park briefing point. Chimpanzee tracking normally begins early in the morning because chimpanzees are active during the cooler hours of the day.

Upon arrival, meet your park ranger and receive a briefing about chimpanzee behaviour, forest conservation and the regulations to follow during the trek.

Nyungwe is one of Africa’s oldest montane rainforests and an important stronghold for chimpanzees. The forest supports an estimated population of more than 500 chimpanzees, although sightings depend on their movements and the conditions of the forest.

Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, enter the rainforest in search of these fascinating primates.

During the trek, you may observe chimpanzees:

• Moving through the forest canopy.

• Feeding on fruits and other natural foods.

• Grooming and interacting with other group members.

• Calling loudly to communicate with one another.

• Playing and displaying different social behaviours.

Chimpanzees are highly mobile animals, meaning the time required to locate them varies. Your guides will use their experience and tracking knowledge to help locate the chimpanzee community.

Once the chimpanzees are found, follow the ranger’s instructions and observe them from the permitted distance and for the authorised viewing period.

Optional afternoon activity: Nyungwe Canopy Walk

If time and availability permit, enjoy the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walkway at Uwinka Visitor Centre.

The canopy walkway is suspended above the rainforest and provides spectacular views of the forest canopy, surrounding mountains and diverse vegetation.

Other optional activities include:

• Guided forest nature walks.

• Birdwatching.

• Colobus monkey tracking.

• Waterfall excursions.

Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Lodge near Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Day 4: Nyungwe Forest – Scenic Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin the journey northwards towards Volcanoes National Park.

This is a scenic but relatively long road transfer connecting two of Rwanda’s most important primate destinations.

Along the way, enjoy views of Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, green hills, cultivated landscapes, local communities and mountain scenery.

Depending on the route, road conditions and available time, your guide may arrange suitable stops for photography and refreshments.

Arrive in the Musanze or Kinigi area, the main gateway to Volcanoes National Park.

Check in at your lodge and spend the afternoon relaxing in preparation for the following day’s mountain gorilla trekking experience.

Your safari guide will brief you about the trekking arrangements and confirm that your gorilla permit and identification documents are ready.

Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 5: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Today is the highlight of your Rwanda safari: mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters in Kinigi for registration and the mandatory pre-trekking briefing.

At the headquarters, park officials will explain the gorilla trekking regulations, safety precautions and what to expect during the forest experience.

Visitors are assigned to available habituated mountain gorilla families according to park arrangements, group size and fitness considerations.

Accompanied by experienced park rangers and trackers, enter the forest in search of your assigned gorilla family.

The trekking experience can take several hours, depending on the location and movements of the gorillas. The terrain may include steep slopes, dense vegetation and muddy forest trails.

Once the gorillas are located, you will have one hour to observe them in their natural habitat.

During this unforgettable encounter, you may see:

• A dominant silverback protecting and leading the family.

• Mother gorillas caring for their young ones.

• Juvenile gorillas playing and interacting.

• Young gorillas learning social behaviours.

• Different family members feeding, resting and grooming.

Mountain gorillas are endangered great apes, and their conservation is one of Rwanda’s most successful wildlife protection initiatives.

After your encounter, return to the park headquarters and receive your trekking certificate where applicable.

Spend the afternoon relaxing at your lodge or participate in an optional cultural activity around Musanze.

Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 6: Volcanoes National Park – Kigali – Departure

Enjoy breakfast at your lodge before checking out.

Depending on your departure flight schedule, you may have time for a short visit around Musanze or enjoy the beautiful views of the Virunga volcanic mountain range.

Your driver-guide will then transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.

This marks the end of your six-day Rwanda chimpanzee tracking, mountain gorilla trekking, cultural heritage and Kibeho pilgrimage safari.

Safari Accommodation Suggestions

The following accommodation properties can be considered when planning this safari. Final selection will depend on availability, budget and the traveller’s preferred accommodation category.

Note: Some properties are located outside the named town or park boundary. Accommodation arrangements should be checked against the final driving itinerary.

What Is Included in the Rwanda Safari Package?

The following services can be included in the safari quotation:

• Airport transfers in Kigali.

• Private 4×4 safari vehicle.

• Professional English-speaking driver-guide.

• Fuel and transportation costs.

• Accommodation for five nights.

• Meals as specified in the itinerary.

• Chimpanzee tracking permit in Nyungwe Forest.

• Mountain gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park.

• Nyanza King’s Palace entrance fees.

• Kibeho pilgrimage visit.

• Bottled drinking water during the safari.

• All applicable activities specified in the itinerary.

What Is Excluded?

• International flights.

• Rwanda entry visa, where applicable.

• Travel insurance.

• Personal expenses.

• Tips and gratuities.

• Alcoholic and premium beverages.

• Optional activities not included in the programme.

• Additional accommodation before or after the safari.

Important Information About Chimpanzee and Gorilla Tracking

Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe

Chimpanzee tracking is a physically demanding forest activity that requires patience and a reasonable level of fitness.

Important considerations include:

• Chimpanzee tracking permits should be arranged in advance.

• The minimum age for chimpanzee tracking is generally 15 years.

• Tracking normally begins early in the morning.

• Chimpanzee sightings are not guaranteed.

• Visitors should wear appropriate hiking clothing and waterproof footwear.

• Visitors must follow instructions from park rangers.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Mountain gorilla trekking is a regulated conservation activity, and visitors must follow all park rules.

Important considerations include:

• Gorilla permits should be secured before travelling.

• The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years.

• Visitors spend a maximum of one hour with the gorilla family once located.

• Maintain the required distance from the gorillas.

• Avoid trekking when experiencing contagious illnesses.

• Flash photography is not permitted.

• Follow the instructions of your assigned ranger throughout the trek.

What to Pack for the Safari

For a comfortable experience during chimpanzee tracking and mountain gorilla trekking, consider packing:

1. Waterproof hiking boots with good grip.

2. Long-sleeved shirts and long hiking trousers.

3. Waterproof rain jacket.

4. Gardening gloves for protection against vegetation.

5. Insect repellent.

6. Sunscreen and a hat.

7. Camera with spare batteries.

8. Binoculars.

9. Reusable water bottle.

10. Personal medication and a small first-aid kit.

Why Combine Chimpanzee Tracking and Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

Rwanda is one of Africa’s most rewarding destinations for travellers interested in great apes and primate conservation.

Combining Nyungwe Forest and Volcanoes National Park provides an opportunity to encounter two different great ape species in their natural habitats.

Chimpanzee tracking introduces visitors to the energetic and highly social behaviour of wild chimpanzees in a tropical montane rainforest. Gorilla trekking, on the other hand, offers an intimate encounter with endangered mountain gorillas living in the bamboo forests and mountainous landscapes of the Virunga region.

The addition of Nyanza King’s Palace and Kibeho makes this safari more distinctive by introducing visitors to Rwanda’s royal history and religious heritage.

This itinerary is particularly suitable for:

• International travellers interested in African primates.

• Wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts.

• Gorilla trekking enthusiasts.

• Catholic pilgrims visiting Kibeho.

• Cultural and historical travellers.

• Couples and private safari groups.

• Conservation and educational travellers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I combine chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe with mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

Yes. Both activities can be combined in one safari. Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in southwestern Rwanda, while Volcanoes National Park is in the northwestern part of the country.

2. How many days are needed for a Rwanda chimpanzee and gorilla safari?

Six days is a good itinerary for combining chimpanzee tracking, gorilla trekking, Nyanza King’s Palace and Kibeho. Travellers with additional time can choose a seven- or eight-day safari for a more relaxed experience.

3. Can I visit Kibeho and Nyanza King’s Palace on the same trip?

Yes. Both destinations are in southern Rwanda and can be incorporated into the journey between Kigali and Nyungwe Forest.

4. Is chimpanzee tracking guaranteed in Nyungwe Forest?

No. Chimpanzees are wild animals that move freely through the forest. Experienced trackers help visitors locate them, but sightings cannot be guaranteed.

5. Can I do gorilla trekking before chimpanzee tracking?

Yes. The itinerary can be organised in reverse, starting with mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and continuing to Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee tracking.

6. What is the best time for chimpanzee and gorilla tracking in Rwanda?

Rwanda offers primate tracking throughout the year. The drier periods, generally June to September and December to February, are often preferred because forest trails may be less muddy. However, rain can occur at any time, and permits should be booked early.

7. Can this safari be customised?

Yes. The itinerary can be personalised according to your travel dates, budget, accommodation preferences, flight arrangements and preferred activities.

Book Your Rwanda Chimpanzee Tracking and Gorilla Trekking Safari

Are you dreaming of encountering wild chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest and endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park?

Book your Rwanda primate safari with Book Gorilla Tracking and enjoy a carefully organised journey combining wildlife encounters, cultural discovery and spiritual experiences.

Whether you are travelling for gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, a visit to the historic King’s Palace or a pilgrimage to Kibeho, we can help organise a memorable Rwanda safari.

Contact Book Gorilla Tracking to request a personalised quotation for this six-day Rwanda chimpanzee tracking and mountain gorilla trekking safari.