Ultimate Rwanda Adventure

Welcome to the Land of a Thousand Hills

Your Rwandan adventure begins with a warm welcome in Kigali, one of Africa’s most vibrant and welcoming capitals. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by your private guide and transferred to your elegant hotel, where you can unwind after your journey and prepare for the remarkable experiences that lie ahead. Renowned for its cleanliness, hospitality, and forward-looking spirit, Kigali offers an inspiring first impression of a country that has become a global leader in conservation and sustainable tourism.

Beyond its modern skyline, Rwanda is a land of rolling green hills, volcanic peaks, ancient rainforests, and thriving wildlife. Over the coming days, you’ll discover a destination that seamlessly blends extraordinary natural beauty with rich cultural traditions and an inspiring story of resilience and renewal.

Enjoy a relaxing evening and a restful night’s sleep before setting out tomorrow on a scenic journey to Volcanoes National Park. There, mist-covered mountains and lush bamboo forests provide sanctuary for one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters.

Overnight: Kigali Marriott Hotel

Meals: Dinner

Into the Realm of the Mountain Gorillas

Leaving Kigali behind, travel through Rwanda’s breathtaking countryside toward the dramatic Virunga Mountains, where terraced hillsides, vibrant villages, and panoramic vistas showcase the beauty of the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Along the way, gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s remarkable history with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a place of reflection that honors the past while highlighting the nation’s extraordinary journey of resilience, reconciliation, and hope. As the volcanic peaks rise before you, arrive at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, your welcoming retreat on the doorstep of Volcanoes National Park.

The following morning, prepare for one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters. After a ranger briefing, venture into the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park, following experienced trackers through bamboo-covered slopes in search of a habituated family of endangered mountain gorillas. When the moment finally arrives, you’ll spend a precious hour observing these magnificent primates in their natural habitat, witnessing their gentle interactions, playful young, and commanding silverbacks in an experience that is both humbling and unforgettable.

Later, return to the lodge to relax before discovering Rwanda’s living traditions during a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. Through music, dance, storytelling, and local customs, you’ll gain insight into the communities whose partnership has been essential to protecting this remarkable landscape. As evening settles beneath the volcanic peaks, reflect on a day that beautifully combines conservation, culture, and one of the most profound wildlife experiences on Earth.

Overnight: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Along Rwanda’s Great Lake

After another memorable morning in Volcanoes National Park, set out on one final primate adventure as you track Rwanda’s playful golden monkeys through the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains. These energetic and curious primates provide a delightful contrast to the quiet majesty of the mountain gorillas, offering an equally rewarding opportunity to observe one of Rwanda’s unique endemic species in its natural habitat.

Following your trek, continue south to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes and among the continent’s most beautiful freshwater destinations. Surrounded by emerald hills and charming lakeside communities, Lake Kivu offers a completely different perspective of Rwanda. Upon arrival at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, settle into your elegant accommodations and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at your own pace. Whether relaxing beside the lake, taking in the peaceful scenery, or simply enjoying the slower rhythm of lakeside life, this is the perfect opportunity to unwind after the excitement of the past two days.

As evening falls over the shimmering waters, savor a relaxed dinner while reflecting on the unforgettable experiences already behind you. Tomorrow, a scenic boat excursion across Lake Kivu and a journey through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside will lead you to the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe National Park, where another extraordinary primate adventure awaits.

Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Into Rwanda’s Ancient Rainforest

After breakfast, set out on a scenic boat excursion across the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu, where lush islands, fishing villages, and emerald hills create one of Rwanda’s most picturesque landscapes. Continuing south, travel through the heart of the country, passing tea plantations, rolling countryside, and welcoming rural communities before arriving at Nyungwe National Park. One of Africa’s oldest montane rainforests, Nyungwe is a remarkable sanctuary of ancient trees, cascading valleys, and exceptional biodiversity. Upon arrival at Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, settle into your peaceful surroundings and enjoy sweeping views over the forest that will be your home for the next two nights.

The following morning, venture into the rainforest with experienced guides in search of Nyungwe’s lively chimpanzees. As the forest awakens with birdsong and the calls of primates echo through the canopy, follow winding trails beneath towering trees until you encounter these energetic and intelligent animals in their natural habitat. Watching chimpanzees leap effortlessly through the forest, communicate with one another, and forage among the treetops offers an exhilarating wildlife experience that beautifully complements the quieter intimacy of gorilla trekking earlier in your journey.

Later, experience Nyungwe from an entirely different perspective during the park’s famous canopy walk. Suspended high above the forest floor, the walkway offers spectacular panoramic views across the rainforest canopy while revealing the incredible scale and diversity of this ancient ecosystem. Return to the comfort of your lodge as evening settles over the forest, reflecting on a day filled with adventure, discovery, and some of Rwanda’s most extraordinary natural wonders before preparing for your return to Kigali tomorrow.

Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Until We Meet Again

Your final morning begins with a leisurely breakfast overlooking the rolling hills of southwestern Rwanda before setting out on a scenic journey back to Kigali. Traveling through picturesque countryside, tea plantations, and vibrant rural communities, you’ll experience one last glimpse of the breathtaking landscapes that have earned Rwanda its nickname, the Land of a Thousand Hills.

Along the way, visit the historic King’s Palace Museum, where you’ll gain insight into Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage and the traditions of its monarchy. This fascinating stop offers a deeper appreciation of the country’s history, complementing the remarkable wildlife encounters and cultural experiences that have shaped your journey over the past week.

As you return to Kigali for your onward flight, take time to reflect on an extraordinary adventure—from standing face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas and playful golden monkeys to exploring the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe and the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu. More than a wildlife journey, Rwanda offers an inspiring story of resilience, conservation, and hope that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler. Though your adventure comes to an end, we hope this is simply the beginning of your lifelong connection with Africa, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable CURAH journey.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch