Experience the remarkable 7 Days One&Only Nyungwe House & One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Safari, an unforgettable journey that unites two of Rwanda’s most prestigious national parks: Nyungwe Forest National Park and Volcanoes National Park. This safari promises exhilarating wildlife encounters with diverse mammal and bird species, rich cultural experiences, and breathtaking scenery across Rwanda’s picturesque countryside.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is Africa’s most prominent Afro-Montane Forest, encompassing 970 square kilometers. Established as a national park in 2004, it is strategically located in the southwestern region of Rwanda, along the border with Burundi. Nyungwe is celebrated for its thriving population of chimpanzees, which share an astounding 98.8% of their DNA with humans. Within this lush forest, you can find two habituated chimpanzee groups—one boasting 60 individuals and the other having 30. In addition to chimpanzees, the park is home to 13 primate species, including Hamlyn’s monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, golden monkeys, silver monkeys, Dent’s Mona monkeys, Angola colobus, red-tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys.
Moreover, Nyungwe Forest National Park is a sanctuary for more than 300 bird species, 29 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift. It supports around 85 mammal species, including serval cats, golden cats, Congo clawless otters, giant forest hogs, eastern needle-clawed galagos, Bosman’s potto, mongooses, marsh mongooses, and leopards.
Volcanoes National Park, one of Africa’s oldest parks, was established in 1925 to conserve the endangered mountain gorillas. Covering an area of approximately 162 square kilometers, this park is situated in Rwanda’s Northern Province, specifically in Musanze. It is part of the Great Virunga Volcano Conservation area, which includes neighboring parks in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is teeming with various mammal species, including buffaloes, forest elephants, duikers, forest hogs, bush pigs, spotted hyenas, and majestic mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Around 178 bird species will also be discovered here, including 29 species endemic to the Rwenzori Mountains and the Virunga region. Embark on this incredible safari to immerse yourself in the richness of Rwanda’s natural heritage and wildlife.
Day 1: Pick up from Kigali International Airport – Drive to your Hotel
The 7 Days One&Only Nyungwe House & One&Only Gorilla’s Nest will start with a pick up from Kigali International Airport by our Driver guide from Gorilla Page Safaris who will meet and greet you, he will brief you about your journey and thereafter transfer you to your Hotel with rewarding views of Rwanda’s rolling hills. Upon arrival at your Hotel, you will relaxed from the long flight as you await your dinner as well as an overnight.
Location: Kigali Rwanda
Accommodation Option:
| Luxury | The Retreat Heaven Boutique Hotel |
Meals Plan: Breakfast and Lunch as well as Dinner, a selection of drinks, laundry, activities at the lodge
Drinking Water and Fruits Throughout the journey
Day 2: Visit Genocide Memorial Site – Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park with a Stopover at Butare Museum
On Day 2 of your Safari, you will confidently explore Rwanda’s vibrant capital city, Kigali, and pay a meaningful visit to the Genocide Memorial Site. This robust site is a solemn tribute to the significant events that transpired between April 7 and July 15, 1994, during the Rwandan Civil War. You will also have the option to visit the Inema Art Centre, showcasing the rich artistic culture of the region.
Afterward, you will transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park, stopping at the Butare Museum. Here, you will gain valuable insights into pre-colonial Rwandan culture, including traditional clothing, food production, hunting practices, forms of currency, and ritual objects. Following this enlightening experience, you will continue your journey to the park, where you can look forward to a delightful dinner and a restful overnight stay.
Location: Nyungwe Forest National Park
Accommodation Option:
| Luxury | One&Only Nyungwe House |
Meals Plan: Breakfast and Lunch as well as Dinner, a selection of drinks, laundry, activities at the lodge
Drinking Water and Fruits Throughout the journey
Day 3: Nyungwe Forest National Park – Chimpanzee Trekking – Canopy walk
On Day 3 of your unforgettable 7-day experience at One&Only Nyungwe House and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, you will start the day with a delightful early morning breakfast. Dress appropriately for the adventure ahead, opting for a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy khaki or jean trousers, waterproof boots, a round cap, and a heavy sweater to shield yourself from tree branches and unpredictable weather. Pack snacks and drinking water in your backpack to keep you hydrated during the trek, which may last 1 to 5 hours, depending on where the chimpanzees are located.
You will then proceed to the Uwinka visitor center, where an informative briefing on the park’s Do’s and Don’ts awaits. You’ll be assigned to a chimpanzee group and paired with a dedicated park ranger to assist you throughout your trek. As you explore the lush terrain, you’ll encounter a variety of fascinating primates, including Silver monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, golden monkeys, Dent’s Mona Monkeys, Angola Colobus, grey-cheeked Mangabeys, Red-tailed Monkeys, vervet monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting species like Grauer’s warbler, kamiranzovou, Rwenzori Turaco, Blue Turaco, purple-breasted sunbird, and blue-headed sunbird, among others. You might even come across remarkable mammals such as the paradise flycatcher, great blue Turaco, Rwenzori Nightjar, white-tailed crested flycatcher, Kivu ground thrush, montane double-collared sunbird, and red-throated Alethe. After an exhilarating morning, you’ll return to your accommodation for a delicious lunch to refuel.
In the afternoon, embark on the iconic Canopy Walk along the stunning Igishigishigi trail, a 2-kilometer pathway offering breathtaking rainforest views and vibrant wildflowers. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close with the park’s avian residents, including the Rwenzori Turaco, paradise flycatcher, great blue Turaco, Rwenzori Nightjar, white-tailed crested flycatcher, Kivu ground thrush, montane double-collared sunbird, red-throated Alethe, and forest hornbills. Conclude your eventful day with a delectable dinner and a well-deserved overnight stay.
Location: Nyungwe Forest National Park
Accommodation Option:
| Luxury | One&Only Nyungwe House |
Meals Plan: Breakfast and Lunch as well as Dinner, a selection of drinks, laundry, activities at the lodge
Drinking Water and Fruits Throughout the journey
Day 4: Drive to Volcanoes National Park
On day 4 of your incredible 7-day journey at One&Only Nyungwe House & One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, you’ll begin with a delicious breakfast before setting off for Volcanoes National Park in the stunning far northwest of Rwanda. Upon arrival, you will enter your accommodation and enjoy a hearty lunch to fuel your adventures.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit IBY’s IBY’ lwacu Community, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to connect with the local community and share their life experiences. Here, you’ll gain valuable insights into African culture and lifestyle, discovering the inspiring stories of reformed poachers who are now pivotal participants in the park’s Conservation Projects. Engage in various activities, including the chance to be crowned King or Queen for the day, and immerse yourself in the music and dance that brings this community to life. After an enriching day, you’ll return to your accommodation for a delightful dinner and a restful overnight stay.
Location: Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation Option:
| Luxury | One&Only Gorilla’s Nest |
Meals Plan: Breakfast and Lunch as well as Dinner, a selection of drinks, laundry, activities at the lodge
Drinking Water and Fruits Throughout the journey
Day 5: Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking – IBY ‘lwacu Community Encounter
Day 5 of your 7 Days at One&Only Nyungwe House & One&Only Gorilla’s Nest begins with a delightful breakfast, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Prepare to explore the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park with an ultimate experience alongside the majestic Mountain Gorillas. Dress appropriately for the day in a long-sleeved shirt, khaki or denim trousers, a round cap, and waterproof boots to safeguard against the park’s natural elements. Don’t forget to pack snacks and water to stay energized and hydrated during your trek.
You’ll start at the park’s headquarters in Kinigi, where you’ll receive a thorough briefing on the essential dos and Don’ts regarding your interactions with these incredible mountain gorillas. A knowledgeable park ranger will be assigned to guide you throughout the trek, and you’ll be matched with a specific gorilla family to track. The search for the mountain gorillas can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, depending on their movements and feeding patterns. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a variety of bird species such as the Long-Crested Eagle, Stonechat, Cinnamon-Breasted Bee-Eater, Grey-Throated Thrush, African Marsh Harrier, Common Moorhen, and Paradise Flycatcher, among others.
When you finally meet the gentle eyes of Africa’s dark-furred Great Apes, you’ll be allowed to spend a maximum of one hour in their presence, soaking in the experience as you watch them engage in their daily activities—young ones frolicking, adults grooming one another, and families feeding. Feel free to ask as many questions as you wish and capture stunning photos to remember this remarkable encounter. Afterward, you’ll return to your accommodation for a delicious lunch, reflecting on an extraordinary day spent in the wild.
Location: Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation Option:
| Luxury | One&Only Gorilla’s Nest |
Meals Plan: Breakfast and Lunch as well as Dinner, a selection of drinks, laundry, activities at the lodge
Drinking Water and Fruits Throughout the journey
Day 6: Volcanoes National Park – Golden Monkey Trekking
Day 6 of your 7 Days at One&Only Nyungwe House & One&Only Gorilla’s Nest will kick off with a delightful breakfast. Dress for the day in a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy khaki or jean trousers, a round cap, and waterproof boots to protect yourself from falling branches in Volcanoes National Park and any unpredictable weather. Don’t forget to pack some snacks and water to stay energized and hydrated during your trek.
You’ll head to the park’s headquarters at the Kinigi Visitor Center, where you’ll receive a briefing on the essential dos and Don’ts while interacting with the Golden monkeys. A knowledgeable park ranger will be assigned to guide you, and you’ll be matched with a group of Golden monkeys to observe. Then, you’ll venture into the jungle, searching for these magnificent creatures.
Exploring the bamboo forests will take around 3 to 4 hours as these monkeys inhabit the slopes of the Volcano Mountains. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot various wildlife, including buffaloes, forest elephants, bush pigs, duikers, forest hogs, spotted hyenas, and different bird species. If fortune smiles upon you, you might even encounter chimpanzees! Once you find them, you’ll spend an hour immersed in their world, observing their behaviors, feeding habits, and social interactions. Capture as many photos as you can to document this unforgettable experience.
After your adventure, you’ll return to your accommodation for a hearty meal and some well-deserved relaxation, all while soaking in the beauty of nature at its finest.
Location: Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation Option:
| Luxury | One&Only Gorilla’s Nest |
Meals Plan: Breakfast and Lunch as well as Dinner, a selection of drinks, laundry, activities at the lodge
Drinking Water and Fruits Throughout the journey
Day 7: Transfer to Kigali International Airport or your Hotel
On the final day of your unforgettable Safari, you’ll savor a delightful breakfast before heading to Kigali International Airport or your hotel. Along the way, we’ll make exciting stopovers at Rwanda’s bustling city market, tour the iconic former presidential palace, and visit artisan shops where you can discover stunning artwork and purchase unique souvenirs to commemorate your journey through “The Land of a Thousand Hills.” This 7-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari Adventure is expertly designed to deliver an exceptional blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned safari enthusiast or experiencing it for the first time, this itinerary promises to create lasting memories of your incredible time in Rwanda. Thank you so much for specifically choosing Gorilla Page Safaris on the 7 Days One&Only Nyungwe House & One&Only Gorilla’s Nest. We hope to see you again!
Location: Kigali (City)
Accommodation Option: No (End of tour)
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Drinking Water and Fruits Throughout
The Safari Package Includes on 7 Days One&Only Nyungwe House & One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Meet and greet on arrival
Airport and inter-hotel transfers from day 1 to the last day
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Kigali Marriott Hotel, One&Only Nyungwe House, and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest accommodation rate includes meals, alcoholic and soft drinks, laundry services, any activities at the lodges, and one complimentary massage per guest and applicable VAT
Exclusive use of a private safari land cruiser 4×4 with WI-FI in receptive areas
Services of a professional experienced English-speaking driver guide
A complimentary flower bouquet and a bottle of wine
Bottled mineral water in the vehicle during the tour
1 Gorilla permit per person (this includes briefing at RDB offices, guide, and trek – US$ 1,500.-)
All activities, visits, and extra meals mentioned in the itinerary
Emergency Medical Evacuation Services
All government taxes.
The Safari Package Includes 7 Days One&Only Nyungwe House & One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
International and domestic airline tickets, unless where indicated,
Entry visa fees, Optional extras whilst in Kigali
Drinks throughout the trip, Tips and gratuities,
Personal expenses include telephone calls, mini bar, porter-age, travel insurance, etc.
Passenger Information on 7 Days One&Only Nyungwe House & One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
In case of non-availability, we may have to reroute and provide alternative accommodation at lodges of a similar category.
Passengers should bring only soft-sided bags on safaris as our vehicles have limited luggage space.
All the passengers must have an Identification Card/Passport throughout their travel.
Quote for this Tour
| Number of Persons | 1 Person | 2 Pax (1 Room) | 4 Pax (2 Rooms) | 6 Pax or More (Room Sharing) |
| Price in USD | 33,924 | 23,160 | 22,320 | 21,930 |
Our Safari Vehicles Seating Plan - 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser Extended
All our Safari vehicles are Toyota Land-cruiser 4×4 with pop-up roofs. The vehicles are serviced and maintained to a very high standard before, during and after every safari. Paradise Adventure Vacations Ltd offering all-wheel drive safari vehicles suitable for off-road driving, which enable travelers to discover the magical areas of East Africa in a pleasant and reliable manner.
Our fleet consists of 4×4 Toyota Land cruisers with a hinged roof and skylights above the front seats. The hinged roof offers two main advantages: it provides shade without restricting the view, so that you can enjoy your safari even in the very sunny hours of the day. It also allows a 360-degree all-round view.
Our Vehicles Are Equipped With:
- Adjustable comfortable seats
- Electric refrigerator for drinks
- High-performance shock absorbers
- Tool & first aid kit
- Adapters and battery chargers
Due to the difficult ground and road conditions inside and outside the national parks and wildlife reserves, a four-wheel drive vehicle is not only recommended, but also crucial for an eventful safari.
