9 Day Rwanda Cultural Tour and Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Embark on an extraordinary 9 Day Rwanda Cultural Tour and Gorilla Trekking Adventure journey through Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills. This cultural and wildlife adventure starts and ends in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Experience the wild beauty of Akagera National Park, the serene waters of Lake Ihema, the fascinating culture of local villages, the breathtaking scenery of the Twin Lakes, and the awe-inspiring gorillas of Volcanoes National Park. Your adventure concludes with relaxation at Lake Kivu and a cultural tour of Butare, leaving you with memories to cherish forever.

Highlights

Discover Kigali’s rich history and culture with visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kandt Museum, and Bugesera.
Embark on thrilling wildlife adventures in Akagera National Park with morning game drives, cultural village visits, and a boat ride on Lake Ihema.
Encounter majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park during an unforgettable gorilla trekking expedition.
Participate in community projects and ethnobotany tours at the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, and enjoy local cultural experiences in Ruhengeri and Musanze.
Unwind by the serene shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi and indulge in local banana and sorghum beer tastings before returning to Kigali.

Itinerary of a 9-day Rwanda Cultural Tour and Gorilla Trekking Adventure journey through Rwanda

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Welcome to Rwanda! Our friendly tour guide will greet you upon arrival and transfer you to your preferred Hotel in Kigali. During the drive, your guide will brief you on the exciting activities ahead. Afterwards, you will spend the night in Kigali as you look forward to the upcoming cultural and wildlife adventures.

Day 2: Kigali City Tour & Genocide Memorial Visits

Start your day with a delicious Rwandan breakfast before embarking on a tour of Kigali. Visit the Kigali Solaire, Stade Regional, Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kandt Museum, and the Belgian Camp to learn about Rwanda’s history and culture.

In the afternoon, visit the reconciliation village in Bugesera and the Nyamata and Ntarama genocide churches. Return to your Hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, journey to Akagera National Park. En route, enjoy lunch and visit the Imigongo Art Centre to practice ancient artisan techniques.

Witness the stunning Rusumo Waterfalls before continuing to Akagera National Park. Check into your safari Lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 4: morning Game Drive & Cultural Village Visit

Begin your day with an early morning game drive in Akagera National Park. Look out for elephants, lions, rhinos, antelopes, zebras, buffalo, and various bird species.

After lunch, visit a local pastoralist community for a cultural heritage experience. Return to the Lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 5: Early morning Boat Trip & Evening Game Drives

Enjoy a stunning boat ride on Lake Ihema to spot crocodiles, hippos, and water birds. After lunch and some relaxation, embark on an evening game drive to spot more wildlife. Return to your Lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 6: Visit the Twin Lakes

Transfer to Ruhengeri for an ethnobotany tour, visiting the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Engage with community projects like brick-making and beekeeping. Proceed to Musanze for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

An early start takes you to the briefing point for your gorilla trekking adventure. Equipped with essentials like hiking boots and rain jackets, trek through the misty highlands until you encounter a gorilla family.

Spend an unforgettable hour with these majestic creatures before visiting Buhanga Forest for a Kinigi Cultural Village experience: dinner and overnight stay.

Day 8: Community Tour & Excursion in Gisenyi (Lake Kivu)

Check out of your Lodge and transfer to Lake Kivu. Visit the banana and sorghum beer production plants to taste local brews. Spend the day relaxing by the shores of Lake Kivu. Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 9: Cultural Visit to Butare & Transfer Back to Kigali

After breakfast, travel to Butare, the intellectual heart of Rwanda. Visit the Basilica of Kabagayi, the ancient King’s Palace at Nyanza, and the National Museum. Finally, you will conclude your journey by returning to Kigali. Once there, your guide will drop you off at either the airport or your Hotel.

What we include

Airport transfers
Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary
Transportation by safari vehicle
Gorilla Trekking Permits
Visit Lake Kivu and take a boat ride
All mentioned activities

What we exclude

Airfares
Rwanda Visa
Luxury drinks
Laundry
Tips for a local guide
Telephone fees
Porter fees when tracking
Personal insurance and shopping
Any other item not mentioned above

Know Before You Go

Gorilla Trekking Permit: You should obtain a gorilla trekking permit in advance, as authorities limit the number available. Therefore, book yours early to ensure you secure a spot.
Weather Conditions: Rwanda’s weather can vary, so pack accordingly. Bring lightweight clothing for warmer days and warm layers for cooler evenings and early mornings.
Health Precautions: Consult your healthcare provider for necessary vaccinations and medications, especially malaria prevention.
Respect for Wildlife: While observing gorillas, maintain a respectful distance and follow Park rangers’ guidance to ensure the safety of both humans and gorillas.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting cultural villages and communities. Ask for permission before taking photos of people.
Environmental Conservation: Practice responsible tourism by minimising your environmental impact. Avoid littering and follow Park regulations.
Safety: Follow safety guidelines from your tour guide or Park authorities, especially during wildlife encounters and outdoor activities.
Currency and Payment: Rwanda’s currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Carrying cash for small purchases is advisable, as not all places may accept credit cards.
Language: Although many people in Rwanda speak English, learning basic Kinyarwanda phrases significantly enhances your cultural experience. Consequently, practising a few key expressions will help you connect more deeply with the locals.

What to Bring on the 9-day Rwanda Cultural Tour and Gorilla Trekking Adventure: Journey through Rwanda

Travel Documents.
Gorilla Trekking Permit.
Clothing depends on the season:
Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants (for gorilla trekking and protection against insects).
Warm clothing (for cool evenings and early mornings).
Waterproof jacket/raincoat.
Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots.
Hat and sunglasses

Meeting Point: Kigali, Rwanda | Cancellation Policy: For cancellations up to 2 days before the tour, a Refund of 80% of the tour price. | Price Adult 1 to 20 USD 6531/person | Child 1 to 20 USD 6531/person. It is a private tour.