A primate-focused Rwanda itinerary combining Volcanoes National Park’s gorilla trekking with Nyungwe Forest’s chimpanzee tracking and canopy walkway, deliberately without Akagera’s savannah safari for travellers whose priority is entirely primates.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive Kigali, Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Arrival and a short drive to Kinigi, evening trekking briefing.
Gorilla Trekking
Briefing, family assignment, the trek through misty volcanic slopes, one hour with the family.
As above
Transfer to Nyungwe Forest
A longer drive south through Rwanda’s terraced hills to Nyungwe.
Chimpanzee Tracking
Following a habituated chimpanzee community through Nyungwe’s dense montane rainforest.
As above
Canopy Walk and Forest Trails
Africa’s highest canopy walkway, followed by a guided nature walk on established forest trails.
As above
Return to Kigali, Departure
A long drive back to Kigali, timed against your onward international flight.
Permits & Costs
| Gorilla trekking permit | $1,500 per person |
| Chimpanzee tracking permit | ~$100 per person |
| Canopy walkway | Included in tour price |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Travellers whose priority is entirely primates — gorillas and chimpanzees — without a savannah safari component.
Tour Includes
- Travel in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Gorilla & chimpanzee trekking permits
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Visas
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
Two Primate Parks, No Savannah Detour
By skipping Akagera, this itinerary keeps the focus entirely on primates — gorillas in the volcanic north, chimpanzees in Nyungwe’s rainforest southwest — without adding the extra transfer time a savannah extension would require. A genuinely efficient choice for travellers whose priority is primates specifically.
What to Pack
Sturdy hiking boots for both treks, long trousers and sleeves, a rain jacket, and comfort with heights for the Nyungwe canopy walkway.
Which primate trek is more physically demanding?
Nyungwe’s chimpanzee tracking, given the elevation and terrain, though both require a reasonable baseline fitness level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Akagera be added to this itinerary?
Yes — see our 8-Day Rwanda Safari, which adds Akagera’s Big Five safari to this same Volcanoes-Nyungwe combination.
Is the drive from Nyungwe back to Kigali long?
It’s the longest single transfer in this itinerary, but still comfortably under a full day given Rwanda’s compact size.
Ready to Plan This Trip?
Tell us your dates and we’ll confirm permits and lodges within one business day. Get in touch to start planning.