Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be transferred to the Kigali Serena Hotel, a luxurious oasis in the heart of Rwanda’s capital. Nestled amid the city’s rolling hills, this elegant hotel offers modern comforts and stunning views, providing a perfect introduction to your Rwandan adventure.
Day 2: Kigali’s History and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Morning: Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to the lives lost in the 1994 genocide. This experience offers profound insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience.
Midday: Enjoy a light lunch at a local restaurant in Kigali (e.g., Repub Lounge, known for its relaxed vibe and Rwandan-inspired dishes).
Afternoon: Depart on a scenic road transfer (approximately 2.5–3 hours) to Volcanoes National Park.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Arrive at Singita Kwitonda Lodge, a luxurious eco-retreat set against the backdrop of Rwanda’s volcanic peaks. Settle into your suite and enjoy the tranquil surroundings as you prepare for the gorilla trekking ahead.
Day 3: First Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Morning: After an early breakfast, embark on your first gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park. Accompanied by expert guides and trackers, hike through bamboo forests and misty slopes to encounter a habituated gorilla family—an unforgettable moment of connection with these gentle giants.
Afternoon: Return to Singita Kwitonda Lodge for a well-deserved lunch and time to relax, reflecting on the morning’s experience. Enjoy the lodge’s amenities or take in the views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura volcanoes.
Evening: Dinner at the lodge, featuring farm-to-table cuisine inspired by local flavors.
Day 4: Second Gorilla Trekking Experience
Morning: Set out for your second gorilla trek, offering another opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in a different family group. Each trek provides a unique perspective on gorilla behavior and the park’s biodiversity.
Afternoon: Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. Optional activities include a guided nature walk around the property or a cultural visit to a nearby community to learn about local traditions (subject to availability).
Evening: Savor a final dinner at Singita, recounting the day’s adventures under the starlit sky.
Day 5: Volcanoes National Park to Kigali and Departure
Morning: After breakfast, bid farewell to Volcanoes National Park and embark on a road transfer back to Kigali (approximately 2.5–3 hours).
Afternoon: Arrive at Kigali International Airport in time to connect to your international flight back home, carrying with you memories of Rwanda’s majestic gorillas and heartfelt hospitality.
This itinerary seamlessly blends a poignant cultural experience in Kigali with the thrill of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Staying at the luxurious Singita Kwitonda Lodge ensures comfort and immersion in Rwanda’s natural splendor, while two distinct treks maximize your chances of witnessing the awe-inspiring presence of mountain gorillas, creating a journey that will linger in your memory for years to come.