5 Days Rwanda Primates Encounter & Lake Kivu Safari
Overview
Experience the very best of Rwanda on this unforgettable 5-Day Rwanda Primates Encounter & Lake Kivu Safari with Asafina Safaris. This extraordinary journey combines thrilling gorilla trekking adventures, golden monkey tracking experiences, breathtaking volcanic landscapes, and relaxing moments along the scenic shores of Lake Kivu.
Carefully designed for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation, this Rwanda safari takes you deep into the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park — home to the endangered mountain gorillas and playful golden monkeys — before concluding with peaceful lakeside experiences at one of Africa’s most beautiful freshwater lakes.
From wildlife encounters and cultural experiences to luxury accommodations and spectacular scenery, this safari delivers a truly immersive East African adventure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional Asafina Safaris driver-guide.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a guided Kigali city tour. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and gain insight into Rwanda’s inspiring history, resilience, and remarkable transformation. You may also explore local craft markets, cultural centers, and vibrant city neighborhoods.
After lunch, depart for Volcanoes National Park, located within the scenic Virunga Mountain region. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Rwanda’s rolling green hills, terraced landscapes, and traditional villages.
Arrive at your safari lodge in the evening for relaxation, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a comprehensive briefing by experienced park rangers before beginning your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.
Accompanied by skilled guides and trackers, venture deep into the mist-covered rainforest in search of one of the habituated mountain gorilla families. The trek may take several hours depending on the gorillas’ location and movements within the forest.
Once the gorillas are located, you will spend one magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat — watching them feed, interact, groom one another, and care for their young.
This once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most extraordinary safari experiences.
After the trek, return to the lodge for relaxation and refreshments.
Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking – Transfer to Lake Kivu
After breakfast, return to Volcanoes National Park for an exciting golden monkey tracking experience.
Golden monkeys are energetic and playful primates known for their striking golden-orange fur and lively behavior. Found within the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains, these beautiful creatures offer excellent photography opportunities and an exciting primate encounter.
Following the experience, depart for the stunning shores of Lake Kivu — one of Africa’s Great Lakes and among the continent’s most scenic freshwater destinations.
Arrive at your lakeside resort in the afternoon and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, breathtaking lake views, and relaxing surroundings.
Dinner and overnight stay at the lakeside resort.
Day 4: Full Day Relaxation & Activities at Lake Kivu
Enjoy a relaxed day at Lake Kivu surrounded by spectacular scenery and tranquil waters.
Guests may choose from a variety of optional activities, including boat rides, kayaking, swimming, coffee tours, cultural village visits, or simply relaxing at the resort while enjoying panoramic lake views.
Lake Kivu offers a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal addition to your Rwanda safari experience.
Dinner and overnight stay at the lakeside resort.
Day 5: Lake Kivu – Kigali Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive back to Kigali.
Depending on your departure schedule, you may enjoy optional shopping or additional sightseeing before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
This marks the end of your unforgettable Rwanda Primates Encounter & Lake Kivu Safari with Asafina Safaris.
Package Includes
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Golden monkey tracking permit
- Transport in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle
- Services of a professional English-speaking safari guide
- Accommodation for 4 nights
- Meals as per itinerary
- Kigali city tour
- Bottled drinking water during the safari
- Airport transfers
- Park entrance fees and government taxes
Package Excludes
- International and domestic flights
- Rwanda visa fees
- Personal travel insurance
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Optional activities at Lake Kivu
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses
Why Choose Asafina Safaris?
At Asafina Safaris, we specialize in unforgettable East African safari experiences tailored to your travel dreams. Our experienced safari guides, personalized customer service, premium safari vehicles, and carefully selected accommodations ensure every journey is comfortable, authentic, and memorable.
From gorilla trekking adventures in Rwanda to luxury wildlife safaris across East Africa, Asafina Safaris is committed to delivering world-class travel experiences filled with adventure, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty
Activities
Safari Highlights
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Golden monkey tracking experience
- Scenic drive through Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills”
- Relaxation and leisure activities at Lake Kivu
- Kigali city tour and cultural experiences
- Visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Exceptional photography opportunities
- Luxury safari experience with professional Asafina Safaris guides
- Comfortable stays in premium safari lodges and lakeside resorts









