5 Days Nyungwe National Park and Lake Kivu, Rwanda safari
5 Days Nyungwe National Park and Lake Kivu, Rwanda safari, are you interested in a memorable Rwanda adventure? this 5 days in Nyungwe National park, combined with a visit to Lake Kivu safari, is a unique opportunity to explore the dense tropical rainforests of Nyungwe National Park, interact with chimpanzees, participate in the thrilling canopy walk, and spot playful colobus monkeys.
While at Lake Kivu, experience more of the Rwandan tradition as you engage in night fishing, visit coffee plantations, and relax on the cool waters and islands. This safari offers the perfect combination of wildlife, adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Tour highlights 5 Days Nyungwe National Park and Lake Kivu,Rwanda safari
- Day 1: Arrival and transfer to Nyungwe National Park
- Day 2: Chimpanzee tracking and canopy walk
- Day 3: Colobus monkey tracking – transfer to Lake Kivu – Night fishing experience
- Day 4: Island hopping
- Day 5: Coffee plantations visit and transfer to Kigali
Detailed Itinerary of 5 Days Nyungwe National Park and Lake Kivu,Rwanda safari
Day 1: Arrival and transfer to Nyungwe National Park
You will be picked up by the driver from your hotel in Kigali or the airport and embark on a 6-hour drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park. You will have a stopover visit to the King’s Palace Museum to witness Rwanda’s culture, watch the inyambo cows and the traditional kingship regalia, and lunch en route. Arrival will be in the late afternoon, check in and relax at the accommodation until the next day.
Day 2: Chimpanzee tracking and Canopy Walk
Start your day with a delightful breakfast and then join a briefing about the endangered chimpanzees before heading into the forest to seek out the lively and playful friends in Nyungwe forest. The Chimpanzees are so much fun to see as they swing from tree to tree, chattering and cheering. Chimpanzee tracking lasts around 3 hours. Once you find them, you will be allowed to spend an hour snapping some pictures and videos! After that, you’ll head back to your accommodation to enjoy lunch!
After lunch, go on a canopy walk to get an aerial glimpse of the dense equatorial forest. This 50-meter-high boardwalk spans the treetops, offering spectacular views of Nyungwe’s lush forest and wildlife. You’ll have the opportunity to witness a variety of bird species, including the rare blue monkey, as you observe the park from an aerial perspective.
Day 3: Colobus monkey tracking – transfer to Lake Kivu – Night fishing experience.
On day 3, you’ll go on a colobus monkey trek in Nyungwe. The park is famous for its large population of monkey species, which are easily spotted in the treetops. The striking black-and-white colobus monkeys are both curious and playful, making for a delightful wildlife encounter. The trek through the forest offers a peaceful experience as you quietly observe the monkeys in their natural environment.
After the trek that lasts for approximately 3 hours, set off for Lake Kivu. Arrival will be in the afternoon hours. Check into the accommodation for lunch and relaxation.
In the late evening, like at 6:00 pm, move to the lake shores to join the local fishermen for the night fishing activity. Meet a group of men loading their three-wheel fishing canoe boats and fishing lights. Later, they start moving happily to the center of the lake. Enjoy their exciting melodies of traditional songs and interesting gestures. This exceptional activity lasts for 2-3 hours as the fishermen share the experience. Dinner and overnight at the accommodation
Day 4: Island hopping
On this day, set out on an island-hopping expedition around Lake Kivu, exploring a range of islands, each with its own distinct charm. Discover the isolated beaches, interact with local fishing villages, and enjoy gorgeous areas ideal for picnics and leisure. Lunch will be at one of the islands.
Alternatively, take a sunset cruise to sail over the calm waters as the sky transforms into a spectrum of warm, brilliant colours. This is a perfect way to unwind and completely appreciate the lake’s tranquil beauty.
Day 5: Coffee plantations visit and transfer to Kigali.
On the last day of your safari, after an early morning breakfast, drive to Kinunu coffee plantation for a coffee experience where you are taught about coffee processing from seedling to powder. At the end of the experience, take a sip of a cup of coffee.
After the experience, your driver guide will drive you back to Kigali with a stopover for lunch en route. Drop-off will be at a hotel or Kigali International Airport, as you will advise at the time of your booking.
End of 5 days Nyungwe National Park and Lake Kivu safari.
Tour inclusions
- Pickup and drop off in Kigali City
- Chimpanzee trekking permit
- Canopy Walk
- Colobus monkey tracking
- Night fishing experience
- Lake Kivu Boat cruise (island hopping)
- All accommodation and meals as per itinerary
- Coffee experience
- 4X4 safari van & Fuel
- Full-time English/ French speaking driver/ guide
- Bottled mineral water while on safari
Tour Exclusions
- Tips to porters and guides
- Personal insurance
- Air tickets and visas
- All items of a personal nature like laundry, porterage, phone calls, beer, etc…
- Optional activities – not included in the itinerary