Arrive in Kigali today on the flight of your choice. Meet your safari representative after clearing customs and baggage claim, setting out for a tour of Rwanda's vibrant capital city. We start our day with a visit to the Genocide Memorial, where we will learn about Rwanda's history from pre-colonial times to the devastation of the 1994 genocide. Discover how the country is recovering and healing from 1994, finding solace in the resiliency of humankind. Stop for lunch at a Kigali restaurant before leaving the city behind, traveling north along windy yet scenic roads for Volcanoes National Park. We arrive in Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri) in time for dinner at the lodge. 
 

Rise early for breakfast before meeting your transfer to the base of Volcanoes National Park. We are briefed upon arrival in gorilla trekking regulations and etiquette, after which you are assigned to your gorilla family. A maximum of 8 visitors are assigned to one of 7 habituated gorilla families, and your trek will vary in length depending on which family you are assigned to. 

The gorilla group that you visit will depend on the assignment of travelers to the seven habituated gorilla groups. We start our hike at 7,000 feet, setting out through bamboo forests and thick undergrowth until we reach our family. There are few words to describe the thrill of recognition when staring deep into the liquid brown eyes of these gentle mammals, which share some 97% of their genes with humans. We will spend one hour observing the nature and habits of this gorilla family before retracing our steps down the volcano slopes. 

Return to the lodge for lunch, reflecting back on our magical morning with one of the world's most endangered species. After lunch we have the opportunity to visit the Gorilla Guardians Village and learn more about conservation efforts. 
 

Today we leave Virunga behind for the picturesque shores of Lake Kivu. Part of a string of freshwater lakes along Africa's Great Rift Valley, Lake Kivu is Rwanda's largest lake and dominates the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Enjoy lunch at the lodge before exploring the lake and its beautiful surrounding areas. 

Optional activities, such as kayaking and a boat ride, can be arranged at an additional cost. 

This morning we continue our exploration of Rwanda, setting out for the diverse flora and fauna of Nyungwe Rainforest. Nyungwe is located in southwestern Rwanda along the Burundian boarder, and this mountainous rainforest is likely one of the best-preserved rainforests in Central Africa. Explore the depths of this important forest ecosystem, searching for large primates, unique bird species and other notable wildlife that call this special place home. 
 

Rise early, setting out before daybreak for a thrilling hike into the depths of Nyungwe in search of chimpanzee communities. The Rwandan chimpanzee population is thought to consist of approximately 400-500 individuals, largely confined to Nyungwe National Park. During your hike you may also spot migratory birdlife including the Ross’ turaco, grey-cheeked hornbill, red-breasted sparrow hawk and regal sunbird. We return to the lodge in time for lunch. 

This afternoon we set back out into the park, embarking on an exciting walk through the canopies of Nyungwe. The canopy walk is an excellent way to view the foliage and wildlife from above - this is sure to be an exilherating experience!  

Optional activities, such as a visit to colobus monkey communities, can be booked at an additional cost.  
 

Leave Nyungwe behind as we return to Kigali after breakfast this morning. Stop for lunch and, time permitting, a visit to the national museum and Royal King's Palace in Butare. Upon arrival in Kigali check into your hotel and enjoy a free evening in Rwanda's capital city. 
 

Transfer to the airport today for your flight home. Or, continue on with your exploration of Central Africa!