This relaxed Rwanda short break pairs Kigali’s history and culture with a golden monkey trek in Volcanoes National Park. You will explore the capital’s memorials, markets and viewpoints, then head to the Virunga foothills for a guided primate trek and an optional cultural village visit. It is a gentle, varied safari for travelers who want wildlife plus city context, and it works well as a standalone trip or as an add-on to a longer East Africa itinerary.
Itinerary
You will be picked up from your hotel or at Kigali International Airport in the morning by your Ringstone Safaris driver-guide. Begin with a guided tour of Kigali, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a deeply moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide. Continue to Kimironko Market, where you can browse fresh produce, fabrics and crafts, and visit landmarks such as the Kigali Convention Centre and Mount Kigali for panoramic views.
After lunch in the city, drive north through the beautiful terraced hills to Musanze, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. Arrive in the late afternoon, check in at your lodge, and enjoy dinner with views of the Virunga volcanoes.
Main Destination: Kigali / Musanze
Accommodation:
- Budget: Kinigi Guest House
After an early breakfast, transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing by Rwanda Development Board rangers. You will be allocated to a golden monkey troop and assigned a ranger guide. The trek typically takes 1–3 hours, depending on the location of the monkeys and the terrain. Once you find them, you will spend one hour observing these playful and endangered primates as they leap through the bamboo forest.
Return to the lodge for lunch and some rest. In the afternoon, you may opt for a visit to Ibyiwacu Cultural Village to learn about traditional Rwandan life, music, dance and medicine, or simply relax at your lodge. Dinner and overnight.
Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation: Same lodge as Day 1
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, lunch and dinner; drinking water included. Other drinks not included.
Activities: Golden monkey trekking, optional Ibyiwacu Cultural Village visit
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and drive back to Kigali. If time permits, you can visit the Caplaki Craft Village or the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre for last-minute souvenirs. You will be dropped off at your hotel or at Kigali International Airport in the afternoon or evening.
Main Destination: Kigali
Accommodation: None
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast and lunch; drinking water included. Other drinks not included.
Driving Time: Approximately 2–3 hours
End of Tour