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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
Butare Cultural & Historical Experience
  • Discover Rwanda’s rich heritage with visits to Butare’s King’s Palace and National Museum, offering valuable insight into African history and culture.
Nyungwe Forest Primate Trekking
  • Explore Nyungwe Forest National Park on a guided trek through dense rainforest, home to chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, owl-faced monkeys and active colobus troops in the canopy.
Unique Rainforest Flora
  • Encounter a remarkable variety of plant life, including delicate orchids that thrive across the high-altitude rainforest floor.
Scenic Rwanda Landscapes & Transfers
  • Travel through Rwanda’s rolling hills and lush countryside with scenic transfers between Kigali and Nyungwe, offering consistently beautiful views along the journey.

Price Includes
  • 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 – our team provides you with complimentary trekking equipment which includes, ponchos, gaiters, backpacks, and shoe cleaning.
Price Excludes
  • International flights.
  • Tips & gratuities
  • Visa
  • Travel Insurance
  • Any personal items or anything not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Any optional activities included in the itinerary.
Safari Pricing Guide (PDF)

For more information, view the

Safari Pricing Guide (PDF) – 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

PRICE GUIDE

FROM

LENGTH

2 Nights I 3 Days

PRICE GUIDE

FROM

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)

Talk to a Specialist

Our experienced Safari Consultants—based in Nairobi and around the world—are here to guide you every step of the way. From expert advice to seamless planning, we’ll take care of every detail to create a safari that’s perfectly tailored to you.

Get in touch today, and a dedicated Safari Specialist in your time zone will start crafting your personalised safari to Africa.

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