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3 Day Nyungwe Forest Safari

Step into a world of rare beauty and biodiversity on this unforgettable journey through Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa’s last remaining montane rainforests. Nestled high in the mountains of Rwanda’s south-western region, Nyungwe offers an immersive safari experience unlike any other—where ancient canopies shelter elusive wildlife and misty trails reveal secrets of a forest untouched by time.

Over three captivating days, this short safari takes you from the cultural heart of Rwanda to the wild serenity of Nyungwe National Park. Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Kigali through rolling hills and historic sites, including the fascinating King’s Palace and National Museum in Butare. Then, ascend into the forested highlands where nature thrives in spectacular abundance.

With over 1,000 square kilometres of pristine terrain, Nyungwe is home to 13 species of primates, including playful chimpanzees and the charismatic colobus monkey. Trek beneath towering trees and listen to the haunting calls of monkeys echo through the canopy. Admire vibrant orchids underfoot, track rare bird species overhead, and explore an ecosystem so rich and unique it ranks among Africa’s most important biodiversity hotspots.

Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of chimpanzee trekking, the allure of ancient forest trails, or the peaceful luxury of your lodge nestled in the hills, this safari promises moments of wonder and connection with nature.

Nyungwe Forest Lodge

Accommodation Option 1:

Accommodation Option 2:

  • 2 nights at One & Only Nyungwe House
  • Discovering Butare’s Rich History: Explore the cultural heritage of Butare with visits to the King’s Palace and the National Museum, offering profound insights into African history.
  • Immersive Nyungwe Forest Trek: Embark on a captivating day of trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to a diverse range of primates, including chimpanzees, l’Hoest’s monkeys, and owl-faced monkeys. Traverse under the lush canopy and witness semi-wild colobus monkeys leaping through the treetops.
  • Botanical Marvels: Marvel at the stunning orchids that adorn the high-altitude rainforest floor, showcasing some of the world’s most exquisite botanical wonders.
  • Scenic Transfers: Enjoy scenic transfers between Kigali and Nyungwe, soaking in breathtaking views along the journey.

Rates Inclusive of:

  • Entry fee to museum of butare and king’s palace.

  • Park fees: Chimpanzees and Colobus Monkeys.

  • Emergency helicopter evacuation (with Nyungwe top hills view hotel only).

  • At One&Only Gorilla Nest: Rates Include; Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, Alcoholic and non- alcoholic beverages (house wines and beers), Two activities per person per day (as defined by the Resort and subject to change without notice), Laundry – within reason, Nespresso machine, tea & coffee facilities, Use of steam rooms and sauna at Club One, Complimentary Wireless Internet Access, Access to the Fitness Centre – Open daily, Daily water and personal pantry in the room.  For your nature experiences – the team provides you with complimentary trekking equipment which includes, ponchos, gaiters, backpacks, and shoe cleaning.

Rates Excludes:

  • International flights.
  • Visas.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Any personal items or anything not mentioned in the itinerary.

For more  information view the Safari Pricing Guide (PDF) – A detailed breakdown of the safari rates, inclusions, and key details.

LENGTH

2 NIGHTS I 3 DAYS

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LENGTH

2 NIGhts / 3 days

BEST MONTHS TO VISIT

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Itinerary in Detail

DAY BY DAY

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Tour Experiences

Day 1

Morning pick up from Kigali (airport or hotel) by 4×4 vehicle and transfer to Butare with spectacular views along the way. Visit the King’s Palace and the National Museum – a must for those interested in African history. Time permitting, visit the remarkable arboretum and continue to the magnificent Nyungwe Forest National Park. Picnic lunch. Dinner and overnight at your choice of lodge. 

Day 2

Breakfast at lodge. A day of trekking within the National Park – a unique habitat for thirteen species of primate including chimpanzees, l’Hoest’s monkeys and owl-faced monkeys. As you walk under the canopy of majestic trees, a large group of semi-wild colobus monkeys can be seen feeding on wild figs and jumping from branch to branch. The high altitude rainforest floor boasts some of the most beautiful orchids in the world. Picnic lunch. Dinner and overnight at your choice of lodge.

Day 3

After breakfast transfer back to Kigali for lunch and then drop-off at the airport (or a hotel).

Tour Experiences

Day 1

Morning pick up from Kigali (airport or hotel) by 4×4 vehicle and transfer to Butare with spectacular views along the way. Visit the King’s Palace and the National Museum – a must for those interested in African history. Time permitting, visit the remarkable arboretum and continue to the magnificent Nyungwe Forest National Park. Picnic lunch. Dinner and overnight at your choice of lodge. 

Day 2

Breakfast at lodge. A day of trekking within the National Park – a unique habitat for thirteen species of primate including chimpanzees, l’Hoest’s monkeys and owl-faced monkeys. As you walk under the canopy of majestic trees, a large group of semi-wild colobus monkeys can be seen feeding on wild figs and jumping from branch to branch. The high altitude rainforest floor boasts some of the most beautiful orchids in the world. Picnic lunch. Dinner and overnight at your choice of lodge.

Day 3

After breakfast transfer back to Kigali for lunch and then drop-off at the airport (or a hotel).

Send An Enquiry

Short Contact Form (NEW)

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Full Name(Required)

What Our Clients Say About Us...

In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our latest clients’ feedback from Gamewatchers Safaris Clients posted on Trip Advisor.

What Our Clients Say About Us...

In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our latest clients’ feedback from Gamewatchers Safaris clients posted on Trip Advisor.

Talk to a Specialist

Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Rwanda.

Talk to a Specialist

Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Rwanda.

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