Great Apes of Rwanda: Rainforest to Volcanoes

An intimate primate expedition following wild chimpanzees in ancient rainforests and mountain gorillas in the Virungas.

The Story

Rwanda offers one of the world’s most profound primate journeys, where ancient rainforests and volcanic peaks protect humanity’s closest relatives. This curated trail links two UNESCO World Heritage ecosystems: Nyungwe National Park and Volcanoes National Park.

Beginning with private architectural masterclasses and contemporary art encounters in Kigali, you fly southwest to Nyungwe’s ancient forest canopy. Here, wild chimpanzees and mega-troops of colobus monkeys thrive. The journey concludes high in the Virunga Mountains, standing quietly beside habituated mountain gorilla families.

WHY THIS JOURNEY

Because it is the definitive Great Apes trail. It pairs wild chimpanzee tracking and colobus monkey encounters in one of Africa’s oldest rainforests with mountain gorilla and golden monkey trekking in the Virungas, elevated by private helicopter logistics and tea sommelier tastings.

Mara Nyika Camp

THE SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES:

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Virunga Mountain Gorilla Trekking

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Nyungwe Forest Chimpanzee Tracking

Wildlife of the Masai Mara in Kenya.

Colobus Monkey Mega-Troop Encounters

Wildlife of Selinda Reserve region of the Okavango Delta. Including Selinda Camp, Zarafa Camp and Selinda Explorers Camp.
Wildlife Experiences at Zarafa Camp

Private Tea Sommelier Masterclass & Sapling Planting

THE PLACES:

Kigali
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Nyungwe National Park
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Volcanoes National Park
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THE JOURNEY:

Chapter 1:

Contemporary Art & Urban Design in Kigali

Arrive in Kigali and settle into Heaven Boutique Hotel.

Enjoy after-hours access at leading contemporary art galleries, sipping botanical gin with local artists, followed by a private architectural drive exploring Kigali’s transformation into a “Smart City”.

Chapter 2:

The Ancient Rainforests of Nyungwe

Fly by helicopter southwest to One&Only Nyungwe House, set on the edge of a working tea estate.

Track wild chimpanzees and colobus monkeys, plant indigenous tree saplings along the Igishigishi Trail, and enjoy private tea tastings with a master sommelier.

Chapter 3:

Gorillas & Golden Monkeys in the Virungas

Helicopter north to Singita Kwitonda Lodge on the edge of Volcanoes National Park.

Experience mountain gorilla trekking, track active golden monkeys in the bamboo canopy, and hike to the former Karisoke Research Center and Dian Fossey’s tomb.

ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation focuses on deep integration with the environment.

  • Heaven Boutique Hotel: Intimate boutique hotel featuring local artwork and farm-to-table dining.

  • One&Only Nyungwe House: Luxury suites featuring timber viewing decks set amidst tea fields and rainforest.

  • Singita Kwitonda Lodge: Eight glass-fronted stand-alone suites with heated plunge pools.

ol Donyo Lodge
ol Donyo Lodge
ol Donyo Lodge
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THE DETAILS:

WHO IT'S FOR

For nature enthusiasts and luxury travellers seeking an intimate, comprehensive primate journey through Africa’s most pristine rainforests and mountain sanctuaries.

Best Time to Visit

June – September (Dry Season & Optimal Rainforest Conditions)
December – February (Dry Season & Excellent Canopy Visibility)
October – November & March – May (Lush Rainforest Green Season)

Includes:

  • Scenic helicopter transfers between Kigali, Nyungwe, and Volcanoes National Park.

  • Gorilla trekking permits, chimpanzee tracking permits, and golden monkey permits.

  • VIP airport logistics, luxury accommodations, all meals, and fine beverages.

  • Private art masterclass, tea tasting, and forest sapling planting experiences.

Important:

Wi-Fi Availability:

  • Available in main lodge areas and suites.

 

Activity Difficulty Level:

  • Active (Includes early morning rainforest trekking and high-altitude hiking).

 

Travel Pace:

  • Deeply immersive, sensory, and purposeful.