5 Days Rwanda: Volcanoes, Lake Kivu, Nyungwe & Nyanza Tour

This 5-day tour through Rwanda offers a fascinating blend of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights. While I haven’t experienced it personally, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews suggest it’s an immersive experience well worth considering.

What I love about this tour is how it combines diverse landscapes, from volcanic peaks to lush rainforests and tranquil lakes. Plus, the chance to see rare primates like chimpanzees and golden monkeys is a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts. The inclusion of cultural visits, such as the Kings Palace Museum, adds a meaningful dimension to the adventure.

One potential consideration is that the tour requires a moderate fitness level, especially for activities like mountain hikes and canopy walks. This might not suit everyone, particularly those with mobility challenges or who prefer a more relaxed pace.

This trip seems best suited for travelers eager for an active, authentic experience of Rwanda’s natural beauty and cultural heritage—perfect for adventure lovers and curious explorers alike.

Contents show

Key Points

Diverse landscapes: From volcanoes to lakes and rainforests, Rwandas scenery is spectacular.
Wildlife opportunities: Primates and birdlife are front and center, with unique encounters like gorilla and chimpanzee treks.
Cultural insights: Visits to the Kings Palace provide a window into Rwanda’s royal history.
Active adventures: Hiking, canopy walks, and boat cruises keep the days engaging and dynamic.
Value for money: All entrance fees, activities, accommodation, and guides are included, making it straightforward to budget.
Traveler suitability: Best for those comfortable with physical activity, but not ideal for young children or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Rwanda in 5 Days: What to Expect from Each Day

This tour offers a well-rounded itinerary that balances outdoor adventure with culture. Here’s a closer look at what each day entails and why it matters.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Kigali

Day 1: Volcanoes National Park Adventure

Your journey starts with a departure from Kigali heading north to Volcanoes National Park, home to some of Africa’s most iconic mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The highlight here is the opportunity to choose between a Mount Bisoke hike or golden monkey tracking.

The Mount Bisoke hike is a rewarding climb that takes you through lush forest and volcanic terrain to reach a stunning crater lake. You’ll love the sense of achievement when reaching the summit, along with panoramic views that are well worth the effort. Alternatively, golden monkey tracking offers a closer peek at these lively primates in their natural habitat, which is both entertaining and educational.

Guest reviews mention that guides are experienced, making the treks informative and safe, with most hikes lasting about half a day. The weather can be variable, so layers and sturdy shoes are advisable.

Day 2: Lake Kivu and Coffee or Tea Experiences

After an early start, you’ll head south to Lake Kivu, Rwandas biggest freshwater lake. Here, the atmosphere shifts to relaxation with a boat cruise that explores scenic islands and local fishing villages. The views across the lake are breathtaking, with shimmering water framed by hills and occasional islands dotted with tiny communities.

Later, a visit to a coffee or tea plantation allows you to see the process behind Rwanda’s world-renowned brews. You can meet local farmers, learn about sustainable farming practices, and sample fresh, aromatic coffee or tea — a delicious way to connect with Rwanda’s agricultural traditions.

The cruise and plantation visits are praised for their authenticity, offering a glimpse into local life and production methods. The lakeside lodge provides a relaxing spot to unwind, with many reviews emphasizing the peaceful setting and beautiful sunset views.

Day 3: Transition to Nyungwe & Canopy Walk

Driving along the Congo-Nile Divide, you’ll arrive at Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. The park’s lush canopy and high biodiversity make it a standout for nature lovers.

The star activity here is the Canopy Walk, a 70-meter-high suspension bridge that offers sweeping views over the treetops and beyond. Travelers describe it as both exhilarating and surreal, with some mentioning a slight adrenaline rush as they walk across the narrow bridge suspended over the forest.

Your lodge will be nestled in the quiet of the rainforest, perfect for soaking in the tranquil environment after your day of exploration. The park is also home to over 300 bird species, making it a birder’s paradise.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking & Waterfall Hike

The next morning kicks off with chimpanzee trekking — a highlight for many travelers. Guided by expert trackers, you walk through dense forest in search of these intelligent primates. Reviews highlight the thrill of seeing chimpanzees in their natural environment, often with close-up encounters that are both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Following this, a waterfall hike takes you through vibrant flora and fauna to discover a hidden cascade. The hike offers scenic views and a peaceful spot to relax after the morning’s activity. Many visitors mention the beauty of the rainforest and the sense of adventure that comes with exploring these untouched trails.

There's plenty more to explore in Kigali

Day 5: Cultural Heritage at Nyanza & Return to Kigali

Your final day takes you to Nyanza, the historic royal capital, and the site of the Kings Palace Museum. The reconstructed royal palace provides insight into Rwanda’s monarchical traditions, with guides explaining the significance of the sacred Inyambo cattle and royal customs.

After a cultural lunch, you’ll head back to Kigali, where you can explore craft markets or simply reflect on your journey. The cultural aspect offers a rewarding contrast to the outdoor adventures, rounding out a well-balanced experience.

Practical Details and Value

This tour’s price of $3,740 per person covers a lot of ground, including all parks entry fees, permits, activities, accommodation with meals, and transportation in air-conditioned vehicles. Having everything planned and paid for simplifies the trip, allowing you to focus on enjoying Rwanda’s sights.

The inclusion of expert local guides and bottled water ensures a smooth, safe, and refreshing experience. While the price might seem steep at first glance, the comprehensive nature of the tour, combined with the variety of experiences, offers good value. You won’t need to worry about extra costs unless you choose personal extras or souvenirs.

It’s worth noting that the tour requires a moderate level of fitness—think walking, light hiking, and some elevation gains. As the itinerary involves outdoor activities, clothing should be versatile, with layers, waterproof gear, and sun protection.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll cover significant distances, but the pace is manageable. The tour operates with small groups, which enhances the experience by allowing more personalized attention from guides and easier access to activities.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 5-day Rwanda adventure is a fantastic choice for travelers eager to experience the country’s diverse natural beauty and cultural richness. It’s ideal for those who enjoy physical activity, appreciate wildlife encounters, and want a balanced itinerary of outdoor adventures and cultural insights.

The tour’s focus on authentic experiences, such as primate trekking, canopy walks, and visits to historic sites, makes it particularly appealing for curious explorers and nature lovers. However, because of the physical demands, it may not suit everyone — especially families with small children, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues.

For those open to adventure and eager to see Rwanda’s most iconic landscapes and cultural landmarks, this tour offers a comprehensive, value-packed experience that captures the essence of this remarkable country.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All park entry fees, activities, the Kings Palace Museum tour, accommodation with meals, transportation, expert guides, and bottled water are included, making it a straightforward package.

Are activities suitable for all fitness levels?
A moderate fitness level is recommended as the activities involve walking, hiking, and canopy walks. It might be challenging for those with back problems or mobility issues.

Is there free time during the tour?
The itinerary is quite packed with scheduled activities, but evenings at lodges and the return to Kigali offer some downtime for relaxing or exploring on your own.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellent, and water are recommended to stay comfortable and prepared for varying weather conditions.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, the provider offers a “Reserve & Pay Later” option, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate payment.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 12 due to the physical activities involved.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Guides speak both English and French, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case of unforeseen changes.

This Rwanda tour promises a dynamic and authentic adventure, blending nature, wildlife, and culture across some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. Perfect for explorers ready to embrace active travel with meaningful cultural encounters, it offers a memorable way to experience Rwanda’s unique charm.