Begin with a city tour of Kigali, including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to Volcanoes National Park. Check in at your lodge and relax in the cool mountain air.
On day 2, have an early breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing and allocation to a gorilla family. Embark on a life-changing mountain gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park, spending one magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
After the trek, enjoy lunch and choose one of the following optional experiences: visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund (Ellen DeGeneres Campus) or have a cultural encounter at Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village. Return to the lodge for relaxation. In the evening, enjoy traditional dance entertainment (depending on lodge schedule), dinner, and overnight at Ingagi Lodge or similar.
On day 3, after breakfast, depart for Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. Choose between two options: Karongi (Southwest Lake Kivu) or Rubavu (Northwest Lake Kivu).
If you choose Karongi, drive via the scenic Gishwati area with beautiful tea plantations and breathtaking lake views. Enjoy island hiking, a sunset boat cruise with local fishermen, and a peaceful atmosphere. Arrive at your lakeside lodge in the afternoon, enjoy lunch, and relax with stunning lake views.
If you choose Rubavu, stay in a lively lakefront area known for sandy beaches and beautiful sunset views. Enjoy dinner and overnight at the selected Lake Kivu lodge.
On the final day, enjoy breakfast at the lodge. Choose from optional activities such as a morning boat cruise on Lake Kivu, relaxation by the lake, or a short island visit (Karongi option). Afterward, begin your scenic drive back to Kigali. Your driver-guide will drop you off at your hotel in Kigali or at Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
