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Day 1 | Welcome to Rwanda
Welcome to Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills. Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Spend the evening enjoying a warm Rwandan welcome over dinner at a local restaurant, featuring traditional dishes and vibrant flavours. Take this time to relax and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead, or explore Kigali’s lively streets if time permits.
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Day 2 | Discover Kigali
Delve into Kigali’s history and culture on a full-day tour of Rwanda’s capital. Begin with a poignant visit to the Genocide Memorial, where you’ll learn about the country’s tragic past and its remarkable journey toward healing and unity. Continue to Camp Kigali and the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre, a vibrant hub for community empowerment. Stroll through colourful local markets, shop for handmade crafts, and end the day with dinner at a traditional Rwandan restaurant.
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Day 3 | Kigali To Lake Kivu
Start your day with a unique Rwandan experience—a visit to a milk bar for a refreshing glass of fresh milk, a local staple. From here, embark on a scenic drive westward toward Gisenyi, passing through lush coffee and tea plantations. Along the way, marvel at the rolling green hills and enjoy glimpses of rural life. Upon arrival at Lake Kivu, settle into your lakeside hotel and unwind as the fishermen serenade the sunset with their traditional songs.
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Day 4 | Gisenyi to Bigogwe by foot!
Lace up your boots for a rewarding 10km hike through some of Rwanda’s most picturesque landscapes. As you traverse wide-open pastures and friendly villages, take in the majestic views of the Virunga Volcanoes and Nyiragongo’s distant peaks. Engage with local farmers who will share stories of their lives and the land. The varied terrain and personal interactions make this hike a memorable start to your active adventure.Expand on heading here…
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Day 5 | Full Day Kayaking on Lake Kivu
Explore the serene waters of Lake Kivu by kayak, paddling through its tranquil bays and visiting local fishing villages. Stop at natural hot springs for a rejuvenating soak and connect with local communities along the shoreline. The day offers a perfect balance of activity and relaxation, culminating in the fishermen’s return to the lake, their songs echoing across the water as the sun sets.
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Day 6 | Gisenyi to Kinunu
Embark on a 16km hike along the Congo Nile Trail, tracing the contours of Lake Kivu’s shoreline. Pass through vibrant local communities and verdant hills, stopping for breathtaking lake views. A short boat ride across the water brings you to Kinunu, where you’ll experience the art of coffee roasting firsthand. Learn about Rwanda’s coffee heritage and savour freshly roasted beans before settling in for the evening.
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Day 7 | Kinunu to Bumba
Tackle a 24km hike that takes you deeper into Rwanda’s rural heartland. Walk through banana plantations, coffee farms and welcoming villages, where locals often stop to chat or invite you to share their stories. Visit a coffee washing station to learn about the journey from bean to brew before ascending to Bumba, perched at 2000m altitude. The views and connections make the day’s effort truly rewarding.
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Day 8 | Bumbu to Kibuye
Begin your day with a 16km hike through lush valleys and vibrant communities. As you approach Rubengera Junction, take in panoramic views of the surrounding hills before transferring to Kibuye. Arrive at the lakeside town in time to relax by the water, reflecting on the journey so far and enjoying the serene atmosphere of Lake Kivu.
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Day 9 | Gisovu & Bisesero Genocide Memorial
Hike through the rolling tea fields of Gisovu, where the vibrant green leaves stretch as far as the eye can see. Visit the Bisesero Genocide Memorial, a deeply moving site that commemorates Rwanda’s history with stories of resilience and remembrance. Afterward, transfer to Nyungwe National Park, where you’ll settle into your accommodations surrounded by lush rainforest.
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Day 10 | Nyungwe Rainforest
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa’s oldest montane rainforests. Start with a morning hike to explore its diverse flora and fauna, then experience the thrill of a canopy walk high above the forest floor. Suspended bridges offer a bird’s-eye view of the jungle, where you might spot colobus monkeys, vibrant bird species and fascinating insects in their natural habitat.
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Day 11 | Chimpanzee Trekking
Rise early for an unforgettable adventure tracking wild chimpanzees in Nyungwe’s dense forest. Listen for their calls as they echo through the trees, guiding you to their location. Spend an hour observing these incredible primates as they swing, play and interact in their natural environment. Along the way, keep an eye out for other wildlife, including golden monkeys and tropical birds.
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Day 12 | King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza & Return to Kigali
Journey back to Kigali with a stop at the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza. Explore the royal residence, an architectural marvel reflecting Rwanda’s traditions. Meet the iconic royal cows, known for their impressive long horns, and even take part in a ceremonial crowning moment. Return to Kigali for your final evening, enjoying the city’s lively atmosphere one last time.
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Day 13 | Departure Day
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your journey home. Reflect on the incredible landscapes, vibrant culture and memorable connections you’ve experienced throughout your Rwandan adventure.
