Trek with Gorillas and Chimpanzees

Embark on an unforgettable adventure that combines breathtaking wildlife, pristine rainforest, and impressive landscapes. The trip begins amidst the awe-inspiring scenery of Volcanoes National Park. For three luxurious nights, unwind at the Volcanoes Virunga Lodge, your base for gorilla trekking excursions into the forest. Come face-to-face with majestic gorilla families – a memory that will stay with you forever.

Next, swap the volcanic highlands for the quiet waters of Lake Victoria and the idyllic Rubondo Island Lodge. Enjoy a variety of activities on the island, from trekking through the island in search of wild chimpanzees, to catch-and-release fishing in the lake waters. There are over 300 species of bird on the island, making it a fantastic location for keen bird watchers as well.

For the final stop, spend three nights at the Ubuntu Migration Camp, set within Serengeti National Park. The camp alternates between two locations on the Great Migration route, ensuring spectacular wildlife sightings all year round. Witness the migrating herds of wildebeest and zebra and the big cat predators that are drawn to them.

Day 01

After arriving in Rwanda's capital, Kigali, you will be transferred to your hotel. The Retreat by Heaven is a boutique hotel located in the centre of the city, offering a fantastic place to stay and explore the city. A must-visit is the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where visitors can learn about the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. 

Day 02

Travel to Volcanoes National Park, where the thick rainforest is home to endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Arrive at Volcanoes Virunga Lodge, which is a three hour drive from Kigali. The lodge has incredible views across the landscape which includes striking volcanoes and twin lakes. 

Day 03

Today, enjoy an unforgettable experience and trek through the forest with expert trackers and guides to find the mountain gorillas. With just eight people able to visit each gorilla family per day, the experience is particularly special. Spend an hour in the presence of these magical animals, marvelling at their family dynamics and impressive size. Trekking to find the gorillas can involve a hike of between three and eight hours, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. 

Day 04

Explore the national park. Trek through the forest in search of the rare Golden Monkey or visit the grave of iconic conservationist Dian Fossey. Alternatively, relax and unwind at the lodge - enjoy complimentary massages to ease tired muscles from trekking. 

Day 05

Today, bid farewell to Rwanda and fly to Rubondo Island, set within the Tanzanian water of Lake Victoria. The island is a remote national park, home to a variety of rare species. Besides the lodge, the only inhabitants on the island are a handful of park wardens and researchers. Settle in to your cottage at Rubondo Island Lodge, each of which enjoys tranquil views across the island beach towards the lake.  

Day 06-07

Explore the island.  There is a variety of activities on offer from game drives and boating safaris to fishing. Enjoy a forest walk with an expert guide and learn about the island's flora and fauna or trek with guides in search of the habituated chimpanzees. 

Day 08

After leaving the serene Rubondo Island, head to the famous Serengeti for your final stop. Arrive at Ubuntu Migration Camp - the exact location of the camp will depend on the season as the camp moves twice a year to follow the Great Migration. The camp is intimate and provides a classic safari experience; each of the ten tented suites enjoys an ensuite bathroom with a traditional safari-style bucket shower. 

Day 09-10

Enjoy thrilling game drives in the Serengeti. Spend drives in search of the Big Cats and the spectacular wildlife sightings. Explore plains filled with wildebeest and zebra and witness animals ranging from elephants and giraffe to lions, leopards and cheetah. 

Day 11

After an unforgettable adventure, enjoying impressive wildlife sightings and unique experiences, return to the airport ready to travel home. 

Itinerary Pricing

Below are the starting prices for the itinerary above as of June 2024

  • Low: £16,300 pp
  • Shoulder: £19,425 pp
  • High: £20,675 pp
  • Festive:  On Request 

Note: This is a sample itinerary and can be customised based on your preferences, the availability of flights, and the duration of your stay.

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