Rwanda: Chimpanzees & More – 7 Days

Overview

Immerse yourself in the heart of Rwanda on this captivating 7-day 6-night safari that showcases the country’s remarkable diversity — from rolling savannas and serene lakes to ancient rainforests teeming with life. Starting with a warm welcome in Kigali, your journey with Kalama Safaris unfolds through unforgettable wildlife encounters, scenic drives through the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” and meaningful cultural moments.

Whether you’re tracking chimpanzees in misty forests or relaxing on the shores of Lake Kivu, this itinerary is thoughtfully designed for comfort, discovery, and connection to Rwanda’s natural and cultural treasures.

Highlights include thrilling game drives and boat safaris in Akagera National Park, where lions, elephants, and hippos roam freely; peaceful lakeside days at Karongi on Lake Kivu with a visit to iconic Napoleon Island; and the magical primate experiences in Nyungwe National Park — including chimpanzee trekking and the exhilarating canopy walkway high above the ancient trees. Along the way, you’ll enjoy luxurious lodges, expert guides, and a memorable stop at the King’s Palace Museum to explore Rwanda’s royal heritage. Perfect for nature lovers and first-time visitors alike, this safari leaves you with a deeper appreciation for Rwanda’s beauty and biodiversity.

Your adventure begins on a Sunday in Kigali, Rwanda and ends with a Saturday home, onward to another destination, or to connect with a 14-day Kalama Safari.

Dates

Departure Years	Departures 2027, Departures 2028
Departure Dates	May 21-May 27, May 30-Jun 12, May 30-Jun 29, Jun 18-Jun 24, Jun 20-Jun 26, Jul 16-Jul 22, Jul 18- Jul 24, Aug 13-Aug 19, Aug 15-Aug 21, Sep 10-Sep 16, Sep 12- Sep 18, Oct 8-Oct 14, Oct 10-Oct 16, Nov 5-Nov 11, Nov 7-Nov 13, Dec 3-Dec 9, Dec 5-Dec 11

Itinerary

Day 1	Arrive in Kigali, Rwanda’s Capital City
	Upon landing at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your dedicated Kalama Safaris representative who will assist you through immigration and customs, ensuring a seamless and stress-free arrival. Relax in the comfort of the VIP Lounge while your luggage is collected, then enjoy a smooth private transfer to the luxurious Kigali Serena Hotel for a one-night stay. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind, rest, and shake off any jet lag. Settle into your elegant accommodations and take in the first sights and sounds of Rwanda. In the evening, savor a delicious welcome dinner at the hotel as you ease into the gentle rhythm of East Africa and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 2	Drive to Akagera National Park
	After breakfast in Kigali, drive east to Akagera National Park (approximately 2.5–3 hours). Upon arrival, check into Salt of Akagera, a beautiful luxury lodge perched on a hill with stunning panoramic views over the park and Lake Ihema, for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon on your first game drive, where you’ll have excellent opportunities to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and a rich variety of birdlife in this beautiful savanna landscape.
Day 3	Take a Boat Safari on Lake Ihema – Drive Back to Kigali
	After an early morning game drive, take a relaxing boat safari on the scenic Lake Ihema. This peaceful cruise offers wonderful close-up sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of colorful water birds against the beautiful backdrop of the park. Afterward, return to the lodge for lunch. You will then drive back to Kigali (approximately 2.5–3 hours). The afternoon and evening are at your leisure to relax and unwind at the Kigali Serena Hotel.
Day 4	Drive to Karongi – Visit Napoleon Island
	After breakfast, enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills to the peaceful lakeside town of Karongi (Kibuye) on the shores of Lake Kivu. Upon arrival, check in for a one-night stay at the charming Cormoran Lodge. After lunch at the lodge and depending on weather conditions and how the group feels, embark on a relaxing boat ride across the sparkling waters of Lake Kivu to the iconic Napoleon Island (Nyamunini). Shaped like Napoleon’s hat, this steep volcanic island offers an adventurous hike through lush vegetation to its summit, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills. Along the way, watch for the island’s famous colony of fruit bats and colorful birdlife, and enjoy the delightful local tradition of cows swimming between the islands — a charming and unforgettable sight unique to Lake Kivu. Return to Cormoran Lodge for a relaxing afternoon, where you can unwind with beautiful lakeside views and savor fresh meals in this tranquil haven.
Day 5	Drive to Nyungwe National Park – Visit Congo Nile Trails
	After an early breakfast, you will be picked up from your lodge at 7:30 am for a scenic 4- to 5-hour drive south through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside to Nyungwe Forest National Park, the largest remaining tropical afro-montane rainforest in East and Central Africa. This ancient, misty forest receives over 2,000 mm of rainfall each year and serves as Rwanda’s largest water catchment area, supplying nearly two-thirds of the country’s water and feeding both the Congo and Nile Rivers. Upon arrival, check in for a two-night stay at the charming Munazi Lodge, perfectly located for exploring the park. In the afternoon, you can begin discovering the area along the scenic Congo Nile Trail, with its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere.
Day 6	Enjoy Chimpanzee Trekking and the Nyungwe Canopy Walkway
	Begin your day with an early breakfast at 5:00 am (or a packed breakfast) before departing for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park. You’ll drive to the edge of the forest where your adventure begins with experienced guides and trackers, who will share fascinating insights about chimpanzees — our closest relatives in DNA composition. Trek through the lush rainforest until you locate a group, then spend a magical hour observing and following these playful primates in their natural habitat. After lunch and a chance to refresh, return to the park reception for a briefing, followed by a walk to the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walkway. Suspended 70 meters high and stretching 160 meters long, this thrilling suspension bridge offers breathtaking aerial views of the ancient forest canopy and an excellent opportunity to spot birds among the treetops. In the late afternoon, you’ll transfer back to Munazi Lodge to relax and enjoy the rest of your evening in comfort.
Day 7	Drive Back to Kigali – Visit King’s Palace
	After breakfast, check out of Munazi Lodge and begin your journey back toward Kigali with lunch en route. Depending on your flight departure time, you will stop to visit the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza (approximately a 3- to 3.5-hour drive from Nyungwe). This beautifully restored royal residence provides a fascinating glimpse into Rwanda’s pre-colonial history, the lineage of its kings, and the kingdom’s rich cultural traditions. You’ll also have the chance to admire the majestic Inyambo — the iconic long-horned traditional cows revered in Rwandan culture. You will then continue the scenic 2- to 2.5-hour drive to Kigali. Upon arrival in the capital, and depending on your departure time, you’ll have the opportunity to freshen up in a day room before transferring to the airport for your evening flight home, onward to another destination, or to connect with a 14-day Kalama Safari.

Cost

NOTE: The number of tour days does not include your international travel days to and from Africa.

Per Traveler
2027
May	$10,395
June – Nov	$11,694
2028
May	$12,040
June – Nov	$13,545

Double Occupancy Per Adult 18+ Person
Single traveler at the same price as double occupancy – no supplements
Youth 75% of Double/Triple Occupancy Age 13-17 Per Person
Child 50% of Double/Triple Occupancy Age 4-12 Per Person
Infant/Toddler No Cost

Discounts

Groups of 4-6	$250 per traveler
Groups of 7-12	$500 per traveler
Groups of 13-18	$750 per traveler

Deposit & Balance

20% Deposit to secure booking
Balance due 90 days prior to start date

Inclusions

All accommodations and meals
All transfers
All gratuities for porters and servers/hotel staff
Minimum gratuities for drivers and guides
All game park entrance and applicable concession fees (2 Park)
Primate trekking experiences (1) and excursions in itinerary
Water included with meals and in safari vehicles

Exclusions

International airfare to Kigali, Rwanda and from Nairobi, Kenya Home
Gratuities – housekeeping
Gratuities – primate trekking guides and porters (suggestions will be provided)
Excess baggage fee
Laundry services
ETA or Visa Fee for entrance into Kigali, Rwanda
Alcoholic beverages and other drinks (soft drinks and water) from the bar
Personal expenses such travel insurance
Communication charges that include emails, and phone calls

Cancellations

▪ Cancellation 90 or more days before start date (100% refund of price less a $300 administrative fee per person)

▪ Cancellation 89-60 days before start date (75% refund of price less a $300 administrative fee per person)

▪ Cancellation 59-30 days before start date (35% refund of price less a $300 administrative fee per person)

▪ Cancellation 29-0 days before start date (0% refund of price per person)

We strongly encourage you to purchase travel insurance!

Insurance

Travel worry-free with travel insurance from trusted insurers. Compare and buy online with safe and secure checkout and instant confirmation of coverage at www.travelinsurance.com.

Consider the following:

Trip Cancellation
Trip Interruption
Medical Evacuation
Medical Protection
Baggage Loss
Flight Accident
Accidental Death

Review the terms and conditions before deciding whether to purchase travel insurance. At a minimum, consider trip cancellation, trip interruption, medical evacuation, and medical protection.