Rwanda –“Land of a Thousand Hills," located in the heart of East Africa is bordered by Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The country gained international focus from the tragic ethnic conflict genocide of 1994. Since then, Rwanda has made remarkable progress in terms of stability, development and even reconciliation, earning the reputation of being Africa's success story.
One of the main attractions in Rwanda is gorilla trekking, which allows visitors to have a rare and unforgettable experience of observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Rwanda is home to the endangered mountain gorillas and efforts have been made to protect and conserve these incredible habitants.
Addition to gorilla trekking, Rwanda is also well known for chimpanzee tracking, showcasing rich biodiversity, a phenomenal birdlife making it a paradise for birdwatchers. But above all, Rwanda offers the opportunity to interact with the various tribes that coexist in the country, including the pygmies, who have a fascinating culture and way of life.
This 4-day Rwanda Gorilla trekking adventure can be enjoyed as a standalone experience or combined with tours and safaris in neighboring countries, allowing travelers to explore the diverse attractions of the region. Rwanda's journey from a tragic past to a thriving nation showcases the resilience and determination of its people.
| Tour Information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Duration | : | 04 days |
| Minimum | : | 02 persons |
| Maximum | : | N/A |
| Price (From) | : | US$ 2200 |
| International air not included | ||
Day 01: Arrival Kigali
Welcome to Rwanda. Upon arrival at Kigali International airport you are welcomed by our safari driver. Driving into the city, you will be briefed about the country and its people. Rwanda was part of German East Africa and at the end of World War 1 it became a mandated territory of the League Of Nations under the administration of Belgium. Hence French is well spoken and now English too besides the Bantu languages of Kinyarwanda and Kiswahili. This linguistic diversity reflects the cultural and ethnic mosaic of the country, as Rwanda is home to several ethnic groups, including the Hutu, Tutsi and Twa.
After breakfast, we visit the 1994 Genocide Museum and the Nyamata and Ntarama genocide memorial grounds. It was a sad time in Rwanda’s history but the people are proud how they managed to bounce back and grow into the present beautiful and peaceful country, it is. We then have lunch testing Kigali cuisine at Choose Kigali restaurant. This will follow with visit to the local bazaar and ending the touring day at the city’s Caplaki Crafts Village which has stalls selling traditional handicrafts, including woodcarvings and woven baskets. This is a women’s support project that is very well known. Before ending the day, we visit the famous Hotel Rwanda. There are many versions of why, what and the who and we leave each individual to make their own call. Optional tea/coffee at the Hotel Rwanda which is now called, Hôtel des Mille Collines.
Overnight: Hotel des Mille Collines (Rwanda Hotel) (1 night)
Day 02: Kigali/Volcanoes National Park Drive (3 hours)
After enjoying breakfast, the next leg of the adventure takes us on a scenic 3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park covering an area of 160 km² and boasting a lush rainforest. It is home to five of the eight volcanoes that make up the Virunga Mountains. The primary attractions in Volcanoes National Park include gorilla trekking and golden monkey trekking. These activities provide a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent primates in their natural habitat, offering a truly unforgettable experience. The park also offers opportunities for hiking, allowing visitors to explore the stunning landscapes and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Hiking trails vary in difficulty, catering to different fitness levels and interests. Musanze, the town located near Volcanoes National Park serves as a gateway to the park and provides accommodation options, restaurants, and cultural experiences. Musanze is known for its warm hospitality and is a great base for exploring the park and its surroundings.
Afternoon, an optional activity is a mountain hike, which provides a chance to further explore the natural beauty of the region and enjoy panoramic views. Additionally, visitors have the option to take a tour of Lakes Ruhondo and Burera, two picturesque lakes located in the vicinity of the national park. These twin lakes offer serene surroundings and the opportunity to relax amidst the beauty of nature.
Overnight: Bishop’s House (2 nights) (B, L)
Day 03: Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Tracking
A very early morning breakfast and you are driven to the park headquarters for briefing by the park authorities. Along with your packed box lunch you are now set to see these unique primates. On a gorilla safari, a reasonable degree of fitness is required with comfortable walking shoes, packed food, mineral water, insect repellent, sunscreen and hat. Gorilla tracking experience can take 2 – 6hrs, depending on the movements of the primates. Hot lunch at the lodge with the afternoon free to join in one of the many optional activities including elephant sanctuary, the Ellen DeGenerus Campus and the Dian Fossey centre. (B, L)
Day 04: Volcanoes/Kigali International Airport (3 hours)
A relaxed day and after breakfast and depending on your flight timings you may add an optional Golden Monkey tracking before departing for Kigali. Combining Rwanda with other countries, the most popular ones are a 3-4 days Masai Mara safari in Kenya; a 4-6 days safari to the Serengeti in Tanzania – both these, if timed well, can work with the Great Wildebeest Migration. Combining gorilla trekking in Uganda (with Rwanda) is also a popular one. (B)
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Departure Dates & Prices
We accept payments in US$, CA$ as well as in other convertible currencies like EUR, AUD and GBP. Tour prices have been costed in US$. CA$ price shown below is an indicative amount reached at by using the conversion rate at the time of web posting and will be applicable if there is no change in the conversion rate. Should the currency conversion rate change, the US$ pricing will prevail. Bestway Tours & Safaris offers a conversion rate protection. Once full payment has been received and no modification has been made to the tour itinerary, we will honour that rate. For complete payment procedures, please click here
| 2024 | Per Person on Twin Sharing |
Single Room Supplement |
Estimated Airfare (FROM)+ | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departure(s) | East Coast | West Coast | ||
| Daily Departures | FromUS$ 2200 | FromUS$ 180 | - | - |
| 2024 | Per Person on Twin Sharing |
Single Room Supplement |
Estimated Airfare (FROM)+ | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departure(s) | East Coast | West Coast | ||
| Daily Departures | FromCA$ 3036 | FromCA$ 249 | - | - |
Notes
Inclusions
Participants
This tour operates on a minimum of 02 participants
Customised Itinerary
If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you.
Contact Info
You may e-mail us at bestway@bestway.com or call 1-604-264-7378.
Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1-800-663-0844.
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