13 Day Magical Rwanda, DRC, Uganda Gorilla Round Trip

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Airport Transfer to Hotel

   Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will complete the necessary customs and immigration formalities. Our company guide will then extend a warm welcome, embodying the renowned hospitality of Rwanda, famously known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Following this, you will be transferred to your reserved hotel to enjoy dinner and a restful overnight stay Meal Plan: Dinner

2. Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park. Travel time + 2.5 hours

   After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, you will start the 13 Day Magical Rwanda - DRC - Uganda Gorilla Round Trip by heading to Akagera National Park. Upon arrival, you will complete registration at the park office before embarking on an exciting game drive to explore the park’s diverse wildlife. Later, check into your accommodation and prepare for a scenic sunset boat trip on Lake Ihema at 3:00 PM. During the boat ride, you may spot hippos and crocodiles in the water or lounging along the shores, as well as buffaloes and elephants wallowing nearby. After the excursion, return to your lodge to enjoy dinner and unwind with an overnight stay Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

3. Day 3: Full day Game drive in Akagera National Park

   Start your day with an early breakfast at your lodge or camp before setting off on a full-day game drive in Akagera National Park with your safari driver-guide. A packed lunch from the lodge will be provided, as you will spend the day immersed in the park’s incredible wildlife. This predominantly savannah park is home to a variety of species, including elephants, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, waterbucks, topis, and the recently reintroduced lions. You will also have the opportunity to spot numerous bird species. The game drive typically lasts 5 to 7 hours, depending on wildlife sightings and your interests, promising an exciting and memorable adventure Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

4. Day 4: Short game drive and drive back to Kigali

   In the morning, after enjoying breakfast, you will embark on a short final game drive in the southern part of Akagera National Park, offering one last opportunity to spot wildlife in this stunning savannah landscape. Following the game drive, you will begin your journey back to Kigali. Upon arrival, you will visit the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to Rwanda’s history, followed by an exploration of the bustling and colorful Kimironko Local Market, where you can experience local culture and crafts Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

5. Day 5: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park. Travel time +5 hours

   Begin your day with an early buffet breakfast before checking out of your hotel and embarking on a scenic journey to Rwanda’s Western Province. Along the way, you will visit the Royal Palace Museum in the Southern Province, where you will delve into the rich history of Rwandan traditional life and the heritage of kingship. After enjoying a delightful en route lunch, you will arrive at Nyungwe National Park in the afternoon. The rest of the day will be yours to unwind and enjoy at your leisure Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

6. Day 6: Chimpanzee tracking and canopy walk

   After an early breakfast, you will set out to explore the natural wonders of Nyungwe Forest, a haven for biodiversity and home to 13 primate species. Upon arrival, you will attend a briefing at the park headquarters before embarking on an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking adventure. Once the chimpanzees are located, you will spend an hour observing their behavior in their natural habitat, a truly unforgettable experience. After the trek, enjoy a well-deserved lunch before heading to the renowned canopy walk, a 70-meter-long suspended metallic bridge offering breathtaking views of the forest. With some luck, you might spot additional primates or unique bird species during your walk. In the afternoon, return to your lodge for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

7. Day 7: Lowland Gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega

   Begin your day with an early morning cup of coffee before crossing the border into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Upon arrival, proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing on your highly anticipated gorilla trekking adventure. Equipped with a packed lunch, you will venture into the jungle to track the elusive lowland gorillas in their natural habitat. Once you locate the gorillas, you will spend an hour observing their fascinating social behavior and capturing unforgettable photographs. This trek requires a reasonable level of fitness, along with essential items such as sturdy walking shoes, packed food, mineral water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat. After this extraordinary experience, return to enjoy lunch before heading back to Rwanda. You will then be transferred to Rwanda at your booked hotel where you can relax and unwind for the rest of the day Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

8. Day 8: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, boat trip on Lake Kivu Travel time +4hrs

   In the morning, following breakfast, set out on a picturesque boat trip to explore the stunning Lake Kivu. During this excursion, you will have the chance to visit several islands and observe the diverse bird species that inhabit the area. After the boat trip, continue your journey with a transfer to Volcanoes National Park, stopping en route at the Kinunu Coffee Plantation for an insightful visit. Enjoy lunch before proceeding to Volcanoes National Park, where you will settle in for dinner and an overnight stay Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

9. Day 9: Diana Fossey Tomb Hike

   After breakfast, your driver-guide will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the park. At 7:00 AM, you will arrive at the park headquarters in Kinigi Village, where a ranger will provide a detailed briefing on the rules and guidelines for the hike to Dian Fossey’s grave. Following the briefing, you will begin your journey into the jungle. Upon reaching the tomb, you will have an hour to explore the historic site, soak in the tranquil surroundings, and capture memorable photographs. After the hike, return to your lodge to enjoy dinner and unwind with an overnight stay Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

10. Day 10: Transfer for Climbing the Volcano Bisoke

    After breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters to begin your day’s adventure. At the RDB Office, a park ranger will brief you on the hiking guidelines and what to expect during the trek. Following the briefing, you will embark on the ascent to the summit of Mount Bisoke, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of its stunning Crater Lake. The hike typically takes 5 to 7 hours, depending on your group’s pace and level of experience. Once the trek is complete, you will return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest and relaxation Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

11. Day 11: Golden monkeys & Transfer to Bwindi via Cyanika border Travel time + 5 hrs

    After a relaxed breakfast, you will set off for Volcanoes National Park to embark on an exciting golden monkey trekking adventure. This unique experience offers the opportunity to observe these playful and endangered primates in their natural habitat. Later, you will continue your journey across the border to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda. Upon arrival, spend the evening at your leisure, resting and preparing for the incredible gorilla trekking experience that awaits you. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your lodge Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

12. Day 12: Gorilla Trekking experience

    Start your day with an early breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing on your gorilla trekking adventure. Equipped with your packed lunch, you will venture into the jungle on an exhilarating trek to find the majestic mountain gorillas. As you explore their natural habitat, you will have the chance to observe their unique behaviors and social interactions in the wild. Once you locate the gorillas, you’ll enjoy the extraordinary privilege of spending one hour in their presence, capturing unforgettable photos and creating lifelong memories. The trek duration can vary from half a day to a full day, depending on the gorillas’ movements. After this once-in-a-lifetime experience, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon relax, reflect on the day’s incredible encounters, and review your photos before settling in for a restful overnight stay Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

13. Day 13: Lake Bunyonyi boat and transfer back for the departure

    After a leisurely breakfast, pack your belongings and prepare for the return journey to Kigali. Along the way, take a serene boat trip on Lake Bunyonyi, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant birdlife, and tranquil atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery of this natural paradise before continuing your drive to Kigali. You will arrive in the city with ample time to catch your departure flight after the memorable 13 Day Magical Rwanda - DRC - Uganda Gorilla Round Trip Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch