10 Day Gorilla and Primate Safari

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the heart of Africa with Pure One. This exclusive, expertly curated journey immerses you in the unspoiled natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Rwanda, home to lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, pristine lakes, and some of the world’s most iconic and endangered primates. With a blend of luxury, exploration, and cultural encounters, this safari offers both awe-inspiring wildlife experiences and moments of quiet reflection in one of Africa’s most welcoming nations.

Your journey begins in the vibrant capital of Kigali before taking you deep into the savannahs of Akagera National Park, where hot air balloon safaris and game drives put you in close contact with Africa’s Big Five. Then, step into the misty jungles of Volcanoes National Park for an emotional mountain gorilla trek and golden monkey encounters, before continuing on to the serene waters of Lake Kivu and the ancient rainforests of Nyungwe. Here, you’ll trek with chimpanzees and walk high above the canopy for breathtaking views, each day adding a new layer of magic to your adventure.

With Pure One Travel, you’ll enjoy private transport, stunning eco-lodges and handpicked accommodations, local expert guides, and every detail taken care of so you can focus on the journey. This is more than a safari, it’s an immersive exploration of Rwanda’s wild soul and gentle spirit, designed for those seeking both adventure and connection.

Your Itinerary:

Day 1 – Arrival in Kigali
Touch down in the heart of Rwanda and begin your journey with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport, where your private guide awaits. From there, you’ll be transferred to the luxurious Kigali Serena Hotel, ideally located in the center of the capital. Settle in and take the rest of the day to relax or explore Kigali at your own pace. Whether you enjoy a refreshing swim, spa treatment, or a taste of the city’s burgeoning culinary scene, your first night sets the tone for the elegance and ease of this incredible adventure.

Day 2 – Transfer to Akagera National Park & Lake Ihema Boat Cruise
After breakfast, your journey east begins with a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, a sanctuary of wide savannahs, rolling hills, and winding waterways. Upon arrival, check in to the stylish Ruzizi Tented Lodge, nestled on the edge of Lake Ihema. In the afternoon, head out on a peaceful boat cruise across the lake, where hippos lounge in the water, crocodiles sunbathe on the banks, and dozens of bird species fill the air with color and song. It’s the perfect way to ease into Rwanda’s natural rhythms and begin spotting wildlife.

Day 3 – Hot Air Balloon Safari & Guided Game Drive
Rise early for a truly magical experience: a sunrise hot air balloon safari over Akagera’s expansive landscape. As you float above the park, watch the golden light stretch across the savannah and spot wildlife from the sky. A champagne toast and bush breakfast follow, making this morning one to remember. Later, set off on a guided game drive to track Akagera’s Big Five, lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino, alongside zebras, giraffes, and countless antelope. As the sun sets, arrive at Karenge Bush Camp, an intimate and rustic lodge deep within the park’s heart.

Day 4 – Morning Game Drive & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Begin the day with one last immersive game drive in Akagera, capturing final glimpses of the wildlife and the park’s beautiful terrain. After breakfast, set off on a scenic cross-country drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills to reach the renowned Volcanoes National Park. You’ll arrive at Sambora Kinigi Lodge in the afternoon, a charming mountain retreat on the doorstep of the Virunga Volcanoes. If time allows, enjoy a gentle walk through the local village or simply relax, as excitement builds for tomorrow’s once-in-a-lifetime gorilla encounter.

Day 5 – Mountain Gorilla Trekking & Dian Fossey Experience
Today is the pinnacle of your journey, an unforgettable trek into the misty jungle of Volcanoes National Park in search of mountain gorillas. After a morning briefing at the park headquarters, you’ll set off with an expert guide, hiking through thick bamboo forest to reach a habituated gorilla family. Once found, you’ll spend a magical hour observing their social behaviour and intimate interactions, a humbling and emotional experience. Later in the day, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, where you’ll learn about the pioneering work of Dr Fossey, and ongoing conservation efforts.

Day 6 – Golden Monkey Trekking & Gorilla Guardians Cultural Experience
Your adventure continues with a guided trek to see the endangered golden monkeys, known for their energetic personalities and striking appearance. Hike through the bamboo forests of the Virunga range and enjoy close encounters with these playful primates as they leap from tree to tree. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Rwanda’s living culture at Gorilla Guardians Village. Here you’ll take part in traditional dance, witness local craftsmanship, and learn about community life in this region, all while supporting responsible and sustainable tourism.

Day 7 – Scenic Transfer to Lake Kivu
After a leisurely breakfast, depart Volcanoes National Park for the serene shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. Arrive at Cormoran Lodge, where wooden cabins overlook the crystal-clear water and verdant hills beyond. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, whether you choose to relax lakeside, take a refreshing swim, enjoy freshly grilled fish, or join a short boat excursion to see the local fishermen as they prepare for the evening’s catch. The tranquillity here offers the perfect mid-journey reset.

Day 8 – Journey to Nyungwe National Park
This morning, enjoy a relaxed lakeside breakfast before setting off for a drive through Rwanda’s most picturesque landscapes. As you travel south toward Nyungwe National Park, pass through a patchwork of tea plantations, eucalyptus forests, and terraced hillsides that showcase the country’s agricultural richness. Arrive in the afternoon at Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel, an elegant base for exploring the biodiverse wonder of Nyungwe. Settle in with views of the surrounding forest, where you’ll soon be trekking amongst ancient trees and rare wildlife.

Day 9 – Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk Adventure
Wake early and head into Nyungwe’s dense rainforest for a thrilling chimpanzee trek. Follow your guide through moss-covered trails and listen for the whoops and calls of chimps high in the canopy. Once spotted, observe them in their natural habitat, grooming, foraging, and swinging with astonishing agility. After lunch back at your lodge, step into the sky with a walk along Nyungwe’s famous canopy bridge, suspended 40 meters above the forest floor. The views from this aerial path are breath taking, offering rare perspectives of birds, monkeys, and the forest below.

Day 10 – Return to Kigali via King’s Palace Museum & Departure
On your final day, enjoy breakfast and a scenic drive back to Kigali, passing through quiet villages and scenic valleys. En-route, stop at the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, where you’ll gain insights into Rwanda’s pre-colonial monarchy, complete with traditional royal huts and long-horned Inyambo cattle. Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time for a final stroll through Kigali’s local craft markets before your transfer to the airport. Depart Rwanda with your heart full and spirit inspired by its wildlife, people, and landscapes.