Gorillas and Lakes of Rwanda

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, we are transferred to our hotel in Rwanda's vibrant capital city. Take time to settle in and prepare for the adventures ahead.

We begin our cultural immersion with a walking tour through Nyamirambo neighborhood, where we interact with residents and enjoy a traditional lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand Rwanda's history and remarkable journey of reconciliation and rebuilding.

Today, we spend the day immersed in authentic village life with the inspiring women of the Azizi Life weaving cooperative. Our experience begins with a warm welcome from the local community, followed by participation in daily activities such as collecting water, preparing meals, tending to farm animals, or helping in the fields.

We then enjoy a traditional homemade lunch with our host family, creating meaningful cultural connections. In the afternoon, we learn traditional weaving techniques, prepare natural fibers, and create our own piece of sisal jewelry alongside the artisans. The day concludes with refreshments and an opportunity to shop for beautiful handmade fair-trade crafts.

Today is dedicated to revisiting Rwanda’s rich history and natural heritage. We begin by exploring the reconstructed King’s Palace at Nyanza, once the heart of Rwanda’s monarchy. This traditional beehive-shaped royal residence offers fascinating insight into Rwanda’s royal traditions and cultural heritage. We also encounter the majestic long-horned Inyambo cattle, descendants of the king’s herd, still cared for through ceremonial songs and rituals today.

Later, we continue south to Nyungwe National Park, where we venture deep into one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, home to diverse birdlife, primates, butterflies, orchids, and ancient trees. The highlight of the experience is the spectacular 200-meter canopy walkway, suspended high above the forest floor, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a unique perspective of the rich Afro-Montane ecosystem.

This morning, we set out into Nyungwe National Park for an exciting colobus monkey trekking experience. Accompanied by expert guides, we search for large troops of black-and-white colobus monkeys that inhabit the ancient rainforest. Known for their striking appearance and playful behavior, these energetic primates are often seen leaping through the treetops and interacting closely within their groups, creating a memorable wildlife encounter.

Later, we continue to Lake Kivu and enjoy a scenic boat journey from Kibuye to Kinunu. Surrounded by rolling green hills and peaceful waters, the cruise offers spectacular views of Rwanda’s beautiful Bay of Islands. Along the way, we visit Nyamunini Island, also known as Napoleon Island, where a short hike rewards us with panoramic lake views and a chance to experience the island’s unique natural beauty.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the culture and natural beauty surrounding Lake Kivu. We begin with a fascinating visit to the Kinunu Coffee Washing Station, where we discover the complete coffee-making process, from harvesting and washing to roasting and brewing some of Rwanda’s finest coffee. The experience also offers insight into how coffee production has transformed the local community and created sustainable livelihoods for many families.

Later, we enjoy a scenic lakeside lunch before heading out on a peaceful kayaking journey across Lake Kivu’s calm waters, exploring fishing villages, islands, and hidden bays. In the evening, we join local fishermen for a traditional night fishing experience, witnessing authentic sambaza fishing techniques accompanied by songs and storytelling on the lake.

Note: Fishing does not take place ever y day. It can be cancelled due to bad weather, around the full moon and also when fishing is prohibited by the authorities to allow stocks to recover.

Today, we journey from Kinunu to Volcanoes National Park, nestled beneath the dramatic Virunga Mountains. Along the way, we visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund’s Ellen DeGeneres Campus, where we gain insight into the inspiring conservation initiatives dedicated to protecting endangered mountain gorillas and supporting local communities. Upon arrival at our lodge, we relax and enjoy dinner surrounded by the beautiful volcanic landscape while preparing for tomorrow’s unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.

Today we wake up early for the much-awaited mountain gorilla trek, a highlight of our journey. We set out for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. Accompanied by expert rangers, we trek through the forest in search of a mountain gorilla family. Once found, we spend a magical hour observing these gentle primates up close as they interact, play, and move through their natural habitat — a truly once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter.

After returning from the trek, we head back to the lodge for a well-deserved celebration lunch and time to relax. Later, we visit a local village to experience Rwanda’s traditional banana beer-making process. Together with community members, we learn about banana cultivation, juice extraction, fermentation techniques, and the cultural importance of homemade banana beer, all accompanied by lively traditional songs and dances.

Today, we venture once again into Volcanoes National Park for a memorable Golden Monkey tracking adventure. Guided by expert trackers, we walk through lush bamboo forests in search of these fascinating endangered primates. Known for their vivid golden-orange fur and lively behavior, the monkeys are incredibly entertaining to watch as they jump between branches, feed, and interact within their troop.

The forest is also home to an impressive variety of birdlife, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities along the trail, including possible sightings of the striking Blue Turaco. Beyond the excitement of the encounter, this experience also supports important conservation initiatives dedicated to protecting the Golden Monkeys and preserving their fragile mountain habitat.

Spend your final morning exploring Kimironko local market, browsing colorful produce, handicrafts, and textiles. We are transferred to the airport depending on our departure flight, carrying memories of Rwanda's remarkable people, wildlife, and landscapes.