Rwanda Revealed

We fly to Kigali via Istanbul.

Connection in Istanbul and departure for final leg of the journey to Kigali.

Upon arrival in Rwanda’s welcoming capital of Kigali, we transfer to our centrally located hotel where we will check in and go straight to bed. After lunch, enjoy a guided exploration of Kigali’s lively neighbourhoods, colourful markets, and creative spaces. The evening is yours to unwind before we enjoy dinner at the hotel.

This morning we visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful and moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The memorial offers a profound look into Rwanda’s past and remarkable resilience. After lunch at the iconic Hotel des Mille Collines, you will have time to shop for handcrafted baskets, coffee, and textiles at the local artisan markets.

Travel through Rwanda’s rolling green hills toward Nyungwe, one of Africa’s oldest high-altitude rainforests. Along the way, take in terraced farmland and misty mountain vistas. Arrive at your lodge perched above the canopy, where the views stretch endlessly across the forest.

Discover Nyungwe from above as you set out on its thrilling canopy walkway. Suspended 60 metres above the ground, the bridge offers panoramic views rarely seen by humans. Look out for acrobatic colobus monkeys, vibrant forest birds, and the sweeping valleys below.

Rise early for a memorable once-in-a-lifetime trek into the heart of Nyungwe in search of wild chimpanzees. Led by expert trackers, follow their vocal calls and rustling movements as the forest awakens. Witness their complex social behaviour in one of the last strongholds for these remarkable primates.

Today we journey north to the peaceful shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, where volcanic mountains meet calm, sparkling waters. The afternoon is free to relax, stroll the lakeside paths, or simply enjoy the refreshing breeze from your serene resort setting.

Visit the Pfunda Tea Factory this morning for an engaging look at Rwanda’s thriving and vibrant tea culture. Wander the lush plantations, learn about the production process, and sample fresh brews. In the afternoon, board a gentle cruise on Lake Kivu. Drift past forested islands and watch fishermen prepare their traditional boats as the sun dips behind the hills.

Travel through the dramatic landscapes of the Virunga volcano range to Musanze. Here, we’ll visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, an inspiring centre dedicated to gorilla conservation and scientific research. Learn about Dian Fossey’s legacy and the ongoing efforts to protect mountain gorillas. Later, settle into our eco-friendly lodge surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Today is the highlight of our adventure. Trek through bamboo forests and along volcanic slopes with skilled guides to encounter a family of endangered mountain gorillas. Spend an unforgettable hour observing their behaviour—playful youngsters tumbling through foliage, mothers cradling their infants and the silverback standing watch. A rare and humbling experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

After breakfast we depart for Akagera National Park, stopping for lunch in Kigali. As the landscapes transitions from lush mountains to open savannah, we enter Rwanda’s premier wildlife reserve. Settle into our lodge overlooking rolling hills and shimmering lakes.

Today we will enjoy a full day of safari in Akagera’s diverse habitats. Keep watch for elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos, buffalo, hippos, and abundant birdlife. In the late afternoon, a scenic cruise on Lake Ihema brings us close to hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds as the sky glows with sunset colours.

A relaxed morning lets us soak up the tranquil surroundings. Later, we venture out on an exhilarating night game drive. With luck, we will see nocturnal predators such as hyenas or elusive leopards, along with smaller creatures that come alive after dark.

This morning we enjoy a late check out and lunch before we transfer back to Rwanda’s capital city of Kigali. We will make another stop for shopping on route. Our Farewell Dinner celebrates the landscapes, wildlife encounters, and meaningful moments that have shaped your journey. This evening, we transfer to the airport for our flight home.

We depart on our flight home via Istanbul.