6Days Rwanda
Primates and Birding Safari
This immersive 6-day Rwanda safari is crafted for primate lovers and birding enthusiasts alike. Journey from the rich montane rainforests of Nyungwe, alive with chimpanzees and rare Albertine Rift bird species, to the misty peaks of Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll track mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in their breathtaking high-altitude habitat. With world-class trekking, vibrant avian biodiversity, and cultural moments, this safari offers a complete Rwandan wilderness experience in under a week.
safari Pax
This Safari allows pax starting from 2 to a group of 18
Transport
All ground transfers are done in a 4*4 safari vehicle
Accomodation
All hotels and lodges are well curated to meet your expectations
Meals
This Safari allows both local and international cuisines
Payments
This Safari is paid only in Dollars through bank transfer or Mastercard
24/7 Support
Our team of experts will be around from the start of your safari till end
Do not hesitate giving us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
- +256 778 495 443
- info@upcountrysafarisug.com
- Overview
- Safari Itinerary
- Inclusion/Exclusion
- Safari Map
Step into Rwanda’s emerald heartlands on a 6-day journey that blends the soulful presence of great apes with the melodic charm of tropical birdlife. From the ancient treetops of Nyungwe Forest, where chimpanzees chatter and Albertine Rift endemics flutter through misty canopies, to the volcanic slopes of Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll meet the legendary mountain gorillas, this itinerary is both thrilling and enriching. With a rare combination of birdwatching, primate tracking, cultural insight, and scenic travel, this safari is designed for the curious traveler who longs for raw encounters, deep forest magic, and unforgettable connections with nature — all in the heart of Rwanda.
Trip Highlights
Full-day guided birdwatching in Nyungwe Forest (Albertine Rift endemics)
Chimpanzee tracking in the early morning mist
Scenic road transfer through Rwanda’s iconic hills
Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Golden monkey tracking & optional Dian Fossey hike
Kigali Genocide Memorial and cultural city tour
Stunning views of Lake Kivu and the Virunga ranges
Accommodation Suggestions (Mid-Range)
Nyungwe Region: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel / Emeraude Kivu Resort
Volcanoes NP: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Kigali (if needed): Heaven Boutique Hotel
“In the heart of Rwanda’s wilderness, every call, every footstep, every birdsong tells a story.”
Let Upcountry Safaris Uganda take you there — naturally, ethically, and expertly.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Nyungwe Forest
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, meet your driver-guide and begin a scenic 5–6 hour transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park. En route, stop at landmarks like the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza or the National Museum in Huye. Arrive in the evening and settle into your forest lodge nestled in the hills.
Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel or Emeraude Kivu Resort
Day 2: Full-Day Bird Watching in Nyungwe Forest
Spend a full day exploring one of Africa’s most biodiverse birding destinations. With over 300 bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics, Nyungwe is a birder’s paradise. Look out for species such as the Rwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Warbler, Red-collared Mountain Babbler, and Purple-breasted Sunbird. Your experienced bird guide will tailor the route to maximize sightings.
Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel or Emeraude Kivu Resort
Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Rise early for your chimpanzee trek in Nyungwe, starting just before sunrise. Trek through tangled forest as you listen for pant-hoots and rustling — and once found, observe the troop’s energetic morning rituals. After the trek, enjoy lunch and begin your road transfer north to Volcanoes National Park via scenic Lake Kivu routes.
Overnight: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge or Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the ultimate highlight — mountain gorilla trekking. After an early briefing, hike into the Virunga Mountains to find a habituated gorilla family. Once located, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour observing their behavior, social structure, and soulful eyes — a bucket-list moment for any wildlife lover.
Overnight: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge or Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Day 5: Golden Monkey Tracking & Optional Dian Fossey Hike
After breakfast, head out for golden monkey tracking in the lower bamboo zones of the park. These playful, fast-moving primates are unique to the Virunga ecosystem. Optionally, hike to the Dian Fossey Research Center and grave site — a tribute to the woman who brought global awareness to the plight of mountain gorillas. Afternoon at leisure.
Overnight: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge or Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Day 6: Kigali City Tour – Genocide Memorial & Departure
Return to Kigali, arriving in time for a short city tour. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, and art galleries depending on time. After lunch, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your outbound flight — full of memories from Rwanda’s forests, wildlife, and warm culture.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
✅ Inclusions
Airport pick-up and drop-off
Private 4x4 safari vehicle & English-speaking guide
5 nights’ accommodation (mid-range, full board)
Gorilla permit ($1,500)
Chimpanzee permit ($150)
Birding guide and full-day birdwatching fee
Golden monkey permit
All park entry fees
Bottled water during transit
All listed activities and museum visits
❌ Exclusions
International flights
Rwanda tourist visa ($50)
Optional Dian Fossey hike fee
Travel insurance
Tips and personal expenses
FAQs About Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Yes. Most travelers require separate visas for Rwanda and Uganda. You can also apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows travel between Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya on a single entry visa valid for 90 days.
Permits are arranged in advance by Upcountry Safaris Uganda as part of your safari package.
Rwanda Gorilla Permit: $1,500 per person
Uganda Gorilla Permit: $800 per person
Uganda Chimpanzee Permit (Kibale): $250 per person
The best time is during the dry seasons:
June–September and December–February
These months offer easier trekking conditions and better wildlife visibility.
Gorilla trekking can be moderately to highly strenuous, depending on the location of the gorilla group. Treks can last 2–6 hours and may involve uphill hiking. Chimp tracking is generally easier but still involves forest walking. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
We use comfortable mid-range lodges and camps that offer en-suite rooms, good food, and scenic settings near parks. All are selected based on quality, safety, and proximity to major attractions.
Absolutely! Rwanda and Uganda are perfectly connected by road, making it easy to combine gorilla trekking in Rwanda with chimp tracking, game drives, and the Nile experience in Uganda — all in one seamless itinerary.
Yes, both countries are generally safe for tourists. Our safaris include professional guides, secure transport, and well-vetted accommodations. Rwanda is known for its cleanliness and safety, while Uganda offers warm hospitality and vibrant culture.
Essentials include:
Comfortable hiking shoes
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Long-sleeved shirts & pants (for forest treks)
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottle
Binoculars & camera
Daypack for trekking
We’ll send you a full packing list upon booking.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended and may be required for trekking permits. It should cover medical, trip cancellation, evacuation, and lost luggage.
We are trusted experts in crafting cross-border, conservation-conscious safaris. Our team delivers:
Seamless planning from Kigali to Entebbe
Permit handling & expert guiding
Comfortable mid-range lodging
24/7 support during your trip
Authentic, ethical, and unforgettable experiences
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