5 Days Nyungwe and Lake Kivu Tour
5 Days Nyungwe and Lake Kivu Tour
5 Days Nyungwe Forest and Lake Kivu Tour. Rwanda Primate Adventure and Relaxation Safari
5 Days Nyungwe Forest and Lake Kivu Tour
The 5 Days Nyungwe Forest and Lake Kivu Tour is one of Rwanda’s most rewarding safari experiences, combining thrilling primate encounters, breathtaking rainforest scenery, canopy walk adventures, and relaxation along the shores of Lake Kivu. This safari offers travelers an opportunity to explore the ancient Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to chimpanzees and numerous monkey species, before unwinding at the beautiful Lake Kivu.
Organized by Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda, this itinerary is perfect for nature lovers, birdwatchers, adventure seekers, photographers, and travelers looking to discover Rwanda’s remarkable biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Tour Highlights
- Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Canopy walkway experience above the rainforest
- Guided nature walks in one of Africa’s oldest rainforests
- Spotting various monkey species and birds
- Scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills
- Relaxation at the beautiful Lake Kivu
- Boat cruise on Lake Kivu
- Cultural interactions with local communities
- Spectacular photography opportunities
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be welcomed by a professional guide from Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda. After a briefing about the safari, begin your scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Along the way, enjoy Rwanda’s famous rolling hills, tea plantations, and picturesque countryside. Optional visits to cultural sites and local markets can be arranged.
Upon arrival at the lodge, check in, relax, and prepare for the next day’s chimpanzee trekking adventure.
Accommodation Options
Luxury:
- One & Only Nyungwe House
Mid-range:
- Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Budget:
- Gisakura Guest House
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking and Canopy Walk Adventure
Wake up early and head to the park headquarters for a briefing before entering the forest for chimpanzee tracking.
Nyungwe Forest is home to a significant population of chimpanzees, and the tracking experience allows visitors to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. The trek can take several hours depending on the location of the chimpanzee groups.
After lunch, enjoy the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walkway. Suspended approximately 60 meters above the forest floor, the canopy bridge provides stunning views of the rainforest canopy, wildlife, and surrounding mountains.
You may also encounter:
- L’Hoest’s monkeys
- Black-and-white colobus monkeys
- Blue monkeys
- Red-tailed monkeys
- Numerous bird species
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Nature Walk and Transfer to Lake Kivu
After breakfast, enjoy a guided nature walk through Nyungwe Forest. The park contains over 1,000 plant species, hundreds of bird species, and numerous wildlife attractions.
Following the forest experience, depart for Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes and among the most beautiful freshwater lakes on the continent.
The journey offers spectacular views of Rwanda’s countryside and lakeside communities.
Upon arrival, check into your lakeside resort and spend the evening relaxing on the beach.
Accommodation Options
Luxury:
- Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Mid-range:
- Paradise Malahide
Budget:
- Kivu Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Lake Kivu Boat Cruise and Leisure Activities
After breakfast, embark on a boat excursion across Lake Kivu.
The cruise offers opportunities to:
- Visit fishing villages
- Explore nearby islands
- Observe local life
- Enjoy stunning lake scenery
- Photograph surrounding mountains
Optional activities include:
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Cycling tours
- Community visits
- Coffee tours
Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lakeshore while enjoying Rwanda’s peaceful atmosphere.
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Return to Kigali and Departure
Enjoy breakfast before departing Lake Kivu for Kigali.
Depending on your flight schedule, visit local craft markets, museums, or cultural centers in Kigali. You may also enjoy a city tour before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
What is Included?
- Airport transfers
- Professional English-speaking guide
- 4 nights accommodation
- Chimpanzee tracking permit
- Canopy walk fees
- Lake Kivu boat cruise
- Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Meals as specified
- Bottled drinking water during the safari
- Park entrance fees
What is Excluded?
- International flights
- Rwanda visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned
Best Time to Visit Nyungwe Forest and Lake Kivu
The best months for this safari are:
Dry Seasons
- June to September
- December to February
These months provide excellent conditions for chimpanzee tracking, forest walks, and outdoor activities around Lake Kivu.
Wet Seasons
- March to May
- October to November
Although rainfall is more frequent, the forest becomes exceptionally lush and birdwatching opportunities increase.
Wildlife and Birdlife in Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe Forest National Park is renowned for its biodiversity and supports:
Primates
- Chimpanzees
- Angola colobus monkeys
- L’Hoest’s monkeys
- Owl-faced monkeys
- Blue monkeys
- Red-tailed monkeys
Bird Species
- Great Blue Turaco
- Rwenzori Turaco
- Grauer’s Swamp Warbler
- Handsome Francolin
- Red-collared Mountain Babbler
The park is recognized as one of Africa’s top birdwatching destinations.
Why Book with Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda?
Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda provides exceptional safari experiences across East Africa with customized itineraries designed to meet every traveler’s needs.
Benefits include:
- Experienced safari guides
- Reliable transportation
- Personalized itineraries
- Competitive pricing
- Professional customer service
- Cross-border East African safari expertise
- Sustainable tourism practices
Whether you are planning a Rwanda safari, Uganda gorilla trek, Kenya wildlife tour, or Tanzania migration safari, Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda delivers memorable adventures tailored to your interests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How difficult is chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest?
Chimpanzee tracking involves moderate hiking through forest terrain. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
What is the minimum age for chimpanzee tracking?
Most chimpanzee tracking activities require participants to be at least 15 years old.
How long does chimpanzee tracking take?
Tracking can last between 2 and 6 hours depending on the location of the chimpanzees.
Is the Nyungwe Canopy Walk safe?
Yes. The canopy walkway is professionally maintained and considered safe for visitors.
Can I swim in Lake Kivu?
Yes. Lake Kivu is one of Africa’s safest lakes for swimming and water-based activities.
What should I pack for this safari?
Recommended items include:
- Hiking boots
- Rain jacket
- Long-sleeved clothing
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Sunscreen
- Hat
Can this tour be combined with gorilla trekking?
Yes. Many travelers combine Nyungwe Forest with Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking or Akagera National Park for wildlife safaris.
Is Rwanda safe for tourists?
Yes. Rwanda is widely regarded as one of Africa’s safest and cleanest travel destinations.
Conclusion
The 5 Days Nyungwe Forest and Lake Kivu Tour offers a perfect combination of adventure, wildlife encounters, rainforest exploration, and lakeside relaxation. From tracking chimpanzees in the ancient Nyungwe Forest to cruising the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu, this safari showcases some of Rwanda’s most spectacular natural attractions.
With expert planning and personalized service from Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda, visitors can enjoy an unforgettable journey through Rwanda’s rich landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and welcoming culture. Whether you are seeking adventure, photography opportunities, birdwatching experiences, or peaceful relaxation, this five-day safari provides memories that will last a lifetime.