Into Rwanda’s Primate Paradise

3 Days | 2 Nights | Scheduled and Guided Tour

3-Day Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Nyungwe Forest

Venture into the misty mountains of southwestern Rwanda on this thrilling 3-day chimpanzee trekking safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. A biodiversity hotspot, Nyungwe is home to over 13 primate species, including playful chimpanzees and rare colobus monkeys. With its rich flora, dramatic canopy walks and cultural richness en route through Butare and Nyanza, this short safari is perfect for those seeking an authentic blend of nature, wildlife and Rwandan heritage.

Tour Highlights

🌿 Scenic Drive through Rwanda’s Hills – Journey through the country’s famed “land of a thousand hills,” with captivating countryside views and cultural stops along the way.

🧠 Cultural Stop in Butare (Huye) – Visit Rwanda’s intellectual and cultural hub, with an optional stop at the Ethnographic Museum—home to one of Africa’s finest collections of pre-colonial artifacts.

🐒 Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest – Hike through ancient rainforest with expert trackers in search of wild chimpanzees—an exhilarating primate encounter in one of Africa’s oldest rainforests.

🐾 Colobus Monkey Viewing – Spot large troops of the rare Angolan colobus monkeys leaping through the treetops—just one of 13 primate species found in the park.

🏛️ Royal Palace Museum in Nyanza – Step into Rwanda’s regal past with a guided visit to the traditional palace and learn about the nation’s monarchial heritage before returning to Kigali.

Day 1: Kigali to Nyungwe Forest – A Scenic and Cultural Drive

Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel or Kigali International Airport. As you leave the bustling capital behind, enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills en route to Nyungwe Forest National Park. En route, stop in Butare (Huye)—Rwanda’s intellectual and cultural capital—for a brief tour of its charming town center and possibly a visit to the Ethnographic Museum. Arrive in Nyungwe by afternoon, check in at your preferred lodge and relax in anticipation of your jungle trek.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Colobus Monkey Encounter

Rise early for a briefing at the Nyungwe Forest Park headquarters, where experienced trackers will guide you through the forest’s dense foliage in search of wild chimpanzees. As you trek through the ancient rainforest, the chorus of birds and rustling leaves heighten the anticipation of encountering these energetic primates. Along the way, keep an eye out for other 13 primate species, especially the rare Angolan colobus monkeys, swinging gracefully through the trees in large troops. Return to your lodge and unwind with views of the mist-covered forest canopy.

Day 3: Cultural Heritage and Return to Kigali

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Kigali. En route, make a stop at the Royal Palace Museum in Nyanza, once the seat of Rwanda’s monarchs. Learn about pre-colonial Rwandan royal history, visit the traditional thatched palace and discover artifacts of regal life. Continue to Kigali, arriving in time for your flight home or onward connection.