Day 1 of the 9-day Rwanda tour itinerary starts with your arrival in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. Kigali is a vibrant city known for its cleanliness and safety, and it is an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of the country.

The first activity on the itinerary is a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. This memorial is dedicated to the more than one million Rwandans who lost their lives during the genocide, which occurred over a period of 100 days between April and July 1994. The memorial serves as a reminder of the atrocities that occurred during the genocide, and it is a powerful way to pay tribute to those who lost their lives.

After the visit to the memorial, the itinerary includes a visit to the Kimironko Market, a bustling local market where you can purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the local culture and interact with the locals, who are known for their friendly and welcoming nature.

The final activity for the day is checking into your hotel and relaxing for the evening. The hotel is likely to be located in a convenient location that allows easy access to the other parts of the city. You can enjoy a relaxing evening, perhaps by indulging in the local cuisine or just taking in the stunning views of the city. Overall, Day 1 of the Rwanda tour itinerary offers an excellent introduction to the history and culture of Rwanda, as well as the warmth and hospitality of its people.

Day 2 of the 9-day Rwanda tour itinerary begins with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation in Kigali. Afterward, you will embark on an adventurous journey to the Volcanoes National Park, which is located in the northwest of the country.

The Volcanoes National Park is renowned for being home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and it is one of the few places in the world where you can have the unique opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat. The journey to the park is filled with breathtaking scenery as you drive through the lush green countryside and pass by small villages.

Along the way, you will make a stop at the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, where you will have the chance to learn about the traditional Rwandan way of life. The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village is located in Musanze district, in the northern part of Rwanda. It is a community-based tourism initiative that was created to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of Rwanda. The village is home to various traditional activities, including pottery making, banana beer brewing, basket weaving, and traditional medicine preparation. This village is a living museum that showcases the cultural heritage of Rwanda. You will be warmly welcomed by the locals and learn about their customs and practices, including how to make traditional crafts, play traditional games, and even participate in a traditional dance. You will be amazed by the energy, dances, and songs of the local community, which will leave you with lasting memories.

After your cultural immersion, you will proceed to the Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival, you will check into your accommodation and have some time to relax before embarking on a nature walk in the park. The park is home to several species of primates, including the golden monkey, and a variety of bird species. The nature walk provides a fantastic opportunity to take in the beauty of the park, learn about its flora and fauna, and enjoy some fresh air as you unwind from your long journey.

As the day comes to an end, you will return to your accommodation in the Volcanoes National Park, where you will spend the night. The accommodation in the park ranges from luxurious lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses, and you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. In summary, Day 2 of the 9-day Rwanda tour itinerary is an exciting day filled with cultural immersion and natural exploration.

Day 3 of the 9 Days Rwanda tour itinerary involves an exciting and memorable activity, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari is an incredible wildlife adventure that allows visitors to explore the lush rainforests of Rwanda and observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. A gorilla permit goes for $1500 each person. This once-in-a-lifetime experience takes visitors through the stunning Virunga Mountains, where they can hike and witness these gentle giants up close, while learning about their behavior and conservation efforts to protect them. It is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique glimpse into one of the most incredible creatures on Earth.

Early in the morning, you will embark on an expedition to track the gorillas in their natural habitat. The journey will be led by an experienced guide who will provide insightful information about the park, the gorillas, and their behaviors.

The trek through the dense jungle may be strenuous, but the anticipation of seeing these majestic creatures up close will keep you going. The gorillas in Volcanoes National Park are divided into different families, and your guide will take you to one of them. The guides are experienced in locating the gorillas and will take you to where the families were last seen.

Once you find the gorillas, you will have an unforgettable hour to observe them in their natural habitat. You will be able to observe their behaviors, social interactions, and get a sense of their personalities. This is a rare opportunity to see these incredible creatures in the wild, and it is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

After your gorilla trekking experience, visitors also get to visit the Karisoke Research Center, which was founded by Dian Fossey to study and protect the mountain gorillas. The center has been instrumental in the conservation of gorillas in the area, and visitors get to learn about the center’s efforts in protecting these endangered species.

After the trek and the visit to the research center, visitors return to their lodge for dinner and relaxation. The lodges in the area offer excellent amenities and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, providing the perfect setting to unwind after a day full of adventure.

Day 4 of the 9-day Rwanda tour itinerary involves a thrilling adventure of golden monkey trekking. The day starts with an early morning breakfast to energize you for the trekking ahead. Golden monkey trekking takes place in the Volcanoes National Park, where you will have the opportunity to observe these beautiful and rare primates in their natural habitat.

Golden monkeys are a unique and endangered species found only in the Virunga Mountains of central Africa. They are named for their distinctive golden fur, which glitters in the sun. These monkeys are known for their playful nature and agile movements, making the trek to observe them an exciting and unforgettable experience. Visitors are required to obtain a permit from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to go golden monkey trekking. The permit costs $100 and allows visitors to spend up to one hour with the golden monkeys.

Trekking to see the golden monkeys is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that allows you to see these playful primates up close in their natural habitat. The trek can take anywhere from 1-4 hours, depending on the location of the monkeys and the difficulty of the terrain. It is advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a waterproof jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable.

After the golden monkey trek, the tour itinerary takes you to the twin lakes of Buhondo and Burera. These two beautiful lakes are located near the town of Musanze and are a popular destination for tourists seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The twin lakes offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains, and the calm waters provide a serene atmosphere to unwind after the trek.

After the visit to the twin lakes, you will return to your lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight stay. The lodge offers comfortable accommodation with all necessary amenities, allowing you to recharge after an eventful day. The lodge also offers a perfect opportunity to interact with other travelers and share experiences, making the Rwanda tour itinerary a social and enriching experience. The day ends with a comfortable stay at the lodge, preparing you for the remaining days of the tour.

Overall, Day 4 of the 9 Days Rwanda tour itinerary is an exciting and memorable experience that offers a unique opportunity to observe the endangered golden monkeys in their natural habitat. The trek through the jungle may be challenging, but the rewards of seeing these magnificent creatures up close and personal are worth every step. Additionally, visiting the Twin Lakes in the afternoon is the perfect way to round off the day, allowing you to unwind and relax in a picturesque setting.

Day 5 of the 9 Days Rwanda tour itinerary involves a trip from Volcanoes National Park to Lake Kivu, one of the great lakes of Africa. After having breakfast at your hotel, you will embark on a scenic drive to the lakeside.

Lake Kivu is located in western Rwanda and is shared with the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the largest freshwater lake in Rwanda and the sixth largest in Africa. The lake is known for its stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and the picturesque fishing villages that dot its shoreline.

Upon arrival at Lake Kivu, you will take a boat ride on the lake, which is an excellent way to explore the area and take in the breathtaking views. The boat ride will take you through the local fishing villages, where you will witness the traditional fishing practices and learn about the culture of the people who live in the area.

After the boat ride, you will have the opportunity to relax on the beach or take a swim in the refreshing lake waters. The beach is an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Alternatively, you can opt for a walk or a hike along the shoreline and explore the surrounding nature.

In the evening, you will retire to your overnight accommodations at Lake Kivu. There are a variety of lodges and hotels available to suit your preference and budget. You can choose to stay in a luxurious resort or a more rustic lodge that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Overall, Day 5 of the 9 Days Rwanda tour itinerary provides an opportunity to experience the stunning beauty of Lake Kivu and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Day 6 of the 9 Days Rwanda Tour itinerary involves driving from Lake Kivu to Nyungwe Forest National Park. This park is the largest mountain rainforest in East Africa and offers a unique and beautiful experience for visitors.

After breakfast, you will begin the drive to the Nyungwe Forest National Park. Along the way, you will make a stop at the Congo Nile Trail, which offers some of the most scenic views in the country. The trail stretches along the shores of Lake Kivu and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills.

Once you arrive at Nyungwe Forest National Park, you will be amazed by the diversity of flora and fauna that the park has to offer. The forest is home to over 300 bird species, 75 different species of mammals, and more than 100 different types of orchids.

The forest canopy walk is one of the most popular activities in the park and offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the forest. The canopy walk is a suspended bridge that is suspended over the forest floor, providing an incredible bird’s eye view of the park. The walkway is suspended 60 meters above the ground and stretches over 200 meters across a lush valley. This is the only canopy walk in East Africa and offers a unique opportunity to see the forest from a different perspective. The walk takes you across a series of rope bridges and walkways, which are suspended between tall trees and lush foliage. From the top, you’ll be able to see the park’s incredible biodiversity, including monkeys, birds, and other animals. This is a great opportunity to take breathtaking photos and appreciate the forest’s beauty from a unique vantage point. The canopy walk is a truly unique experience that offers a glimpse into the natural beauty and diversity of Rwanda.

Overnight accommodations will be provided in Nyungwe Forest National Park, giving you the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the forest. The park offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from basic camping sites to luxurious lodges. In summary, Day 6 of the 9 Days Rwanda Tour itinerary offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Day 7 of the 9 Days Rwanda Tour Itinerary is dedicated to an exciting Chimpanzee Trekking Expedition in the Nyungwe Forest National Park. The day starts early in the morning, and guests will be accompanied by an experienced guide who will lead them on this adventure.

The Nyungwe Forest National Park is known for its lush greenery and is home to many different species of animals. However, one of the main attractions of the park is its chimpanzee population. Chimpanzees are one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom, sharing around 98% of our DNA. Chimpanzees are intelligent, social creatures, and observing them in their natural habitat is an incredible experience.

Guests will spend an hour observing the chimpanzees in their natural habitat. This activity offers an opportunity to get close to these animals and watch them as they play, groom each other, and interact with their surroundings. You will also get to take photographs and videos of the chimpanzees, as long as you respect their space and follow the park regulations. It’s an experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to witness it.  The Chimpanzee Trekking Expedition is led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the chimpanzees’ behavior and habits. They will also provide information about the park and its ecosystem, as well as answer any questions guests may have.

After the chimpanzee trekking expedition, guests will return to their lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, they will visit the Kamiranzovu Marsh, where they can observe other primates and birds. The marsh is home to several different species of primates, including colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, Blue monkeys and baboons. This marsh is known to host a variety of bird species, including the African grey parrot, the Ruwenzori Turaco, and the Red-collared Mountain Babbler, among others. These birds have adapted to the forest’s diverse habitat and can be spotted in different areas of the forest. The Ruwenzori Turaco, for example, is known for its vibrant colors and can be found in the forest’s high canopy. The Red-collared Babbler, on the other hand, is a ground-dwelling bird that feeds on insects and can be seen in the forest’s undergrowth. Lastly, the Grauer’s Swamp Warbler is a secretive bird that inhabits the forest’s wetlands and is known for its distinctive song.

After an eventful day, you will spend the night in the serene Nyungwe Forest National Park. The park offers comfortable accommodation facilities that will allow you to rest and recharge for the next day’s activities. The Nyungwe Forest National Park is known for its unique flora and fauna, and you will get to experience its beauty firsthand during your stay.

Day 8 of the 9-day Rwanda tour itinerary involves a visit to one of the country’s iconic national parks Akagera National Park. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to the park, which is the only savannah national park in Rwanda. This is a journey that will offer you a glimpse of Rwanda’s breathtaking landscape, including hills, valleys, and lush greenery.

Along the way to Akagera National Park, you’ll have a chance to stop at the King’s Palace Museum. The museum is a fascinating attraction that will give you an insight into the history and culture of Rwanda. Here, you’ll get to learn about the Rwandan monarchy, its traditions, and customs. You’ll also have an opportunity to marvel at the impressive architecture of the palace, which is a replica of a traditional royal residence. After exploring the King’s Palace Museum, you’ll continue with your journey to Akagera National Park.

Upon arrival at Akagera National Park, you will check in at your accommodation and enjoy some relaxation time. There are several lodging options in the park, ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. Regardless of your budget, you’re sure to find accommodation that suits your needs and preferences.

Later in the day, you can choose to embark on a night game drive to explore the park’s wildlife in the cooler hours of the day. This will give you a chance to see some of the park’s nocturnal animals, such as hyenas, bushbabies, and genets. As the day comes to an end, you’ll retire to your accommodation in Akagera National Park, where you’ll spend the night. Overall, Day 8 of the 9-day Rwanda tour itinerary promises to be an exciting and unforgettable experience. From learning about Rwanda’s rich history and culture at the King’s Palace Museum to encountering the country’s only savannah national park, there’s something for everyone.

Day 9 of the 9 Days Rwanda tour itinerary involves a thrilling game drive and boat ride in Akagera National Park. This activity-packed day starts early in the morning with a game drive, which is a perfect time to see wildlife as they are active during the cooler hours of the day.

During the game drive, you’ll have a chance to spot the famous Big Five, which include elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. In addition to these majestic animals, Akagera National Park is home to a wide range of wildlife, such as zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. You’ll be accompanied by an experienced guide who will help you spot these animals and provide insightful information about their behaviors and habitats.

After a thrilling game drive, you’ll take a break and relax before embarking on the next activity of the day, which is a boat ride on Lake Ihema. This scenic lake is the second-largest in Rwanda and home to a vast array of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

As you glide through the calm waters of the lake, you’ll get to see these magnificent animals up close in their natural habitats. The boat ride is a perfect opportunity to take stunning photographs of the animals and the surrounding landscape.

After the boat cruise, visitors will transfer to Kigali International Airport for their departure flight. The transfer from Akagera National Park to Kigali takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Visitors are advised to pack and prepare for their departure in advance to avoid delays.

In conclusion, Day 8 of the 8 Days Rwanda tour itinerary is a great way to end your trip to Rwanda by experiencing the beauty of Akagera National Park. The morning game drive and boat cruise offer unique and memorable experiences, while the transfer to Kigali International Airport ensures a smooth departure from Rwanda.