
5-Day Nyungwe Forest Safari: Primates, Canopy Walks & Cultural Encounters
(Trip Snapshot) 5-Day Nyungwe Forest Safari
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Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
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Destinations: Kigali → Butare → Nyungwe Forest
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Highlights: Chimpanzees, Canopy Walk, Tea Trails
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Style: Nature & Wildlife
Overview
Step into the emerald depths of Nyungwe Forest, a primeval rainforest teeming with life. Encounter wild chimpanzees, cross dizzying treetop bridges, and unwind in tranquil highland lodges. Ideal for travelers seeking a balance of wildlife, soft adventure, and cultural discovery in one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions. Gorilla Footprints ensures an unforgettable journey with expert guides and seamless experiences throughout this 5-Day Nyungwe Forest Safari.
Itinerary at a Glance (5-Day Nyungwe Forest Safari)
Day 1: Arrival – Transfer to Nyungwe
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Meet & greet at Kigali International Airport
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Optional Kigali city tour, including the Genocide Memorial
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Scenic transfer through the lush Rwandan countryside, with a stop in Butare (optional visit to the Ethnographic Museum)
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Dinner & overnight at Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, nestled on the edge of Nyungwe Forest
Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
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Overview: A comfortable lodge offering stunning views of Nyungwe Forest, providing a peaceful base for your adventure.
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Highlights: Cozy rooms, a relaxing atmosphere, and delicious meals with a view of the forest.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking
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Early breakfast and transfer to the park for chimpanzee tracking with expert rangers from Gorilla Footprints
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Spend time observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat
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Return to the lodge for lunch and leisure
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Optional: Guided birding or forest walk with a ranger to spot other wildlife
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Dinner and overnight at Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Day 3: Canopy Walk & Forest Hikes
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Morning canopy walk adventure – 50m above the forest floor, offering breathtaking views
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Choose a hiking trail: Isumo Waterfall, Igishigishigi, or Kamiranzovu Swamp, depending on your preferences
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Optional visit to a local tea plantation for a guided tour and tea tasting experience
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Return for a relaxing evening and overnight at Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Day 4: Back to Kigali – Overnight in the City
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Morning cultural visit to a local village or enjoy a tea tasting session
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Scenic drive back to Kigali, with stops by the picturesque Lake Kivu
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Check-in at 2000 Hotel Kigali, enjoy a leisurely evening in Rwanda’s vibrant capital
Accommodation: 2000 Hotel Kigali
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Overview: A centrally located hotel with modern amenities and comfortable rooms.
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Highlights: Convenient for exploring Kigali, with excellent dining and service.
Day 5: Departure
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Breakfast at the hotel
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Optional stop at a local market for souvenirs and a cultural experience
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Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight
End of 5-Day Nyungwe Forest Safari
Package Includes
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Private 4×4 vehicle & English-speaking driver-guide from Gorilla Footprints
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Chimpanzee trekking permit & canopy walk fee
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Accommodation (4 nights):
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3 nights in Nyungwe
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1 night in Kigali at 2000 Hotel Kigali
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Bottled water during transfers & activities
Package Excludes
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International flights
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Rwanda visa fees
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Tips & personal expenses
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Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Good to Know
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Trekking permits are limited—early booking is essential
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Expect cool, misty mornings in the forest, so pack warm layers
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A camera with a zoom lens is highly recommended for wildlife viewing
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Moderate physical fitness is required for hikes and canopy walks
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Early booking through Gorilla Footprints ensures seamless arrangements