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9-Day Rwanda Cultural Tour and Gorilla Trekking Adventure

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 Musanz.e
  • Unwind by the serene shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi and indulge in local banana and sorghum beer tastings before returning to Kiga.li

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

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Welcome to Rwanda!
Upon arrival, our friendly tour guide will greet you and transfer you to your preferred hotel in Kigali.
On the way, you’ll be briefed about the exciting activities ahead.
Spend the night in Kigali, filled with anticipation for the 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 Center 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.

9-day Rwanda Cultural Tour and Gorilla Trekking Adventure journey through RwandaDay 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, buffalos, and various bird species.
After lunch, visit a local pastoralist community for a cultural heritage experience.
Return to the lodge for dinner and 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 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 from your lodge and transfer to Lake Kivu.
Visit 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.
Conclude your journey with a return to Kigali, where you will be dropped off at the airport or your hotel.

What’s Included

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

What’s Excluded

  • Airfares
  • Rwanda Visa
  • Luxury drinks
  • Laundry
  • Tips for 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: Ensure you have obtained a gorilla trekking permit in advance, as they are limited and must be booked early.

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 the guidance of park rangers 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 minimizing 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: While English is widely spoken in Rwanda, learning a few basic phrases in Kinyarwanda can enhance your cultural experience and interactions with 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 – Refund of 80% of the tour price.

Price Adult 1 to 20 USD 6031/person | Child 1 to 20 USD 6031/person

This is a private tour