5-Day Awesome Kenya – High End
Days 5 days, 1 country Lodging 3 nights in Hotels, 1 nights in Special Stay Meals 4 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners Transport Pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle
7-Day Highlights of Rwanda
This incredible 7-day adventure in Rwanda offers the opportunity for once in a lifetime wildlife encounters. You’ll track chimpanzees and spot monkeys, baboons and other wildlife in Nyungwe National Park. Trekking deep into the forests of Parc National des Volcans, you’ll search for endangered mountain gorillas with expert local rangers. You’ll also have an opportunity to explore Kigali and its colourful markets, cross Nyungwe’s Canopy Walkway and kayak on Lake Kivu.
The must do experiences that you can cross off your bucket list
Trip Highlights
4-Day Tails of Masai Mara
Days 4 days, 1 country Lodging nights in Hotels, 1 nights in Special Stay Meals 4 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners Transport Pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle Group
10-Day Mid Range Best of Kenya Safari
Days 10 days, 1 country Lodging 7 nights in Hotels, 2 nights in Special Stay Meals 10 Breakfasts, 9 Dinners Transport Pop-up roof 4×4 Mini
Route Map
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Kigali
You’ll be collected from the airport.
Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Board your international flight to Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. Once you arrive, you will be swiftly escorted by our representative who will transfer you to your chosen accommodation. As this is your first day, you will have time to leisurely explore Rwanda’s lively city.
You’ll have an opportunity to visit the bustling local markets and the Caplaki Craft Co-operative where you’ll find local craftsmen in wooden huts. They’ll be selling handicrafts, including jewelry, paintings, batik, fabrics, wood carvings, traditional masks, baskets, bags, scarves and beading.
- Main Destination: Kigali
Day 2 Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, you’ll be driven through spectacular scenery to Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda’s mountainous southwest. The rain forest within the park is home to chimpanzees and monkeys, plus an abundance of birdlife and butterflies.
*Accommodation upgrades are optional at an extra cost.
- Main Destination: Nyungwe Forest National Park (Chimps)
Best Time To Visit: June to September (Dry weather, best chimp trekking)
High Season: June to September (Popular gorilla trekking time in Volcanoes NP)
Best Weather: June to October (Sunny, but not too hot)
Day 3 Chimpanzee Trekking
Today, you’ll join a guided hike through the dense forest of Nyungwe National Park to track chimpanzees. This is a phenomenal wildlife experience that is at par with gorilla tracking. Whilst the trek is undoubtedly exciting, it can be challenging as the chimps are very mobile and they’re always running around in the canopies, on the move from one place to another.
During your time in Nyungwe National Park, you’ll also have an opportunity to cross the Canopy Walkway, a 200-meter bridge suspended between giant trees, 50 meters above the forest. The walkway offers incredible views of the upper canopy and it is excellent for spotting wildlife. Many of the primates live in trees so you’ll have better chances of locating them from the walkway. It is also a fantastic way to see the birds and butterflies that are found in the forest.
*Accommodation upgrades are optional at an extra cost.
- Main Destination: Nyungwe Forest National Park (Chimps)
- Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4 Nyungwe Forest National Park to Lake Kivu
Today, you’ll depart Nyungwe and head to your next accommodation which is located on the white sandy shores of Lake Kivu. Here you can relax on the stunning palm-fringed beaches, kayak on the calm waters of the lake, take a boat tour to the nearby islands or coffee and banana plantations. You can also hike in the surrounding hills or visit Imbabazi Orphanage.
*Accommodation upgrades are optional at an extra cost.
- Main Destination: Lake Kivu
Day 5 Lake Kivu to Volcanoes National Park
After a hearty breakfast at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, you’ll be driven from Lake Kivu to Parc National des Volcans (Volcanoes National Park), which is roughly a four hour drive passing through breathtaking scenery. On arrival at your accommodation, you’ll have a briefing about tomorrow’s gorilla trek.
*Optional accommodation upgrades are at an extra cost.
- Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas)
Day 6 Gorilla Trekking
After an early breakfast, you’ll venture out to Kinigi, at the foothills of the Virungas, in Parc National des Volcans where you’ll begin your trek. Your guide and tracker will lead you deep into the forest in search of your allocated gorilla family. Your trek could last from 30 minutes to eight hours depending on the exact location of the specific gorilla family which you’re tracking.
When you meet the gorillas you’ll have the chance to spend up to one magical hour quietly observing them. The gorillas are likely to be just a few meters away from you and they will continue to go about their daily lives, feeding and interacting with each other, under the watchful gaze of the silverback.
Late in the afternoon, you’ll be transferred back to your accommodation where you can spend the evening reflecting on your incredible encounter with the wild mountain gorillas of Rwanda.
*Accommodation upgrades are optional at an extra cost.
- Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas)
- Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 7 International Inbound Flight
On this morning, you’ll be driven back to Kigali, where you’ll have an opportunity to visit the Genocide Memorial and Education Centre which is a permanent memorial to those who were killed during the 1994 genocide.
You will then be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
- Main Destination: Kigali
- Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
End of tour
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General FAQs
What is the Rwenzori Mountain Range?
The Rwenzori Mountain Range is a stunning mountain range in Western Uganda that is home to the third-highest peak in Africa, Mount Stanley.
What is the best time of year to hike the Rwenzori Mountains?
The best time to hike the Rwenzori Mountains is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to August. During these months, the trails are more accessible, and the views are better
How long does it take to hike the Rwenzori Mountains?
- The length of a hike in the Rwenzori Mountains varies depending on the route and itinerary. However, most treks last between six and twelve days.
What are the physical requirements for hiking the Rwenzori Mountains?
Hiking the Rwenzori Mountains is a strenuous activity that requires a high level of physical fitness. It is recommended that you begin training several months before the trek and consult with a doctor to ensure you are fit for the hike.
What gear do I need to bring for a hike in the Rwenzori Mountains?
You will need to bring appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, and a backpack. It is also recommended that you bring your own sleeping bag.
Do I need a guide to hike the Rwenzori Mountains?
Yes, it is required to have a guide when hiking the Rwenzori Mountains. Guides are trained to navigate the terrain and ensure your safety during the hike.
How much does it cost to hike the Rwenzori Mountains?
The cost of hiking the Rwenzori Mountains varies depending on the route and itinerary. However, most treks range from $1,500 to $2,500 per person.
Is altitude sickness a concern when hiking the Rwenzori Mountains?
Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern when hiking the Rwenzori Mountains. It is important to take your time and acclimate to the altitude during the trek.
What is the accommodation like on the trek?
Accommodation during the trek is typically in mountain huts or tents. The huts and tents are basic and do not have electricity or running water.
Is it safe to hike the Rwenzori Mountains?
Yes, hiking the Rwenzori Mountains is generally safe. However, it is important to follow the guidance of your guide and take necessary safety precautions during the trek.
What to eat:
- High energy and nutrient-dense foods are recommended for hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains.
- Pack snacks such as nuts, energy bars, and dried fruits to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
- For meals, the lodges and camps on the mountain offer a range of options including rice, pasta, soups, stews, and grilled meats.
- Vegetarians and vegans can also be accommodated with meals such as vegetable stir-fry and lentil curry.
- It’s important to stay hydrated, so make sure to bring plenty of water or a water filtration system.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything that hasn’t been properly sterilized or cooked, to reduce the risk of food poisoning or water-borne illnesses.
