Gondwana Ecotours invites travelers to delve deeper into the wonders of Rwanda with its newly expanded 10-day “Rwanda: Gorillas, Chimps & National Parks Adventure.” This meticulously crafted journey offers unparalleled wildlife encounters alongside rich cultural experiences and exploration of Rwanda’s stunning natural landscapes. The centerpiece of this adventure remains the awe-inspiring gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Guests will have the extraordinary opportunity to hike through the park’s lush Afromontane forests, home to approximately 12 habituated gorilla families.
Led by experienced trackers and guides, small groups will spend a precious hour observing these magnificent primates in their natural environment, an experience often described as profound and unforgettable. The trek itself can vary in duration and difficulty, ranging from 30 minutes to several hours, and reaching altitudes between 2,500m and 4,000m. Porters are available to assist with carrying bags, ensuring a more comfortable experience.
The journey continues into the ancient and biodiverse Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Here, travelers will embark on a thrilling chimpanzee trekking excursion. Following the vocalizations and signs of these playful primates, participants will have the chance to observe them feeding, grooming, and interacting within the forest canopy. Nyungwe Forest is home to over 400 chimpanzees, and the tracking experience typically lasts around 3 hours. For an added perspective, the tour includes a breathtaking canopy walk, suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, offering panoramic views of the diverse flora and fauna, including various monkey species and vibrant birdlife.
“This tour embodies our mission of offering exceptional travel experiences that simultaneously contribute to the conservation of precious ecosystems and the well-being of local communities,” said Gondwana Ecotours Founder, Jared Sternberg. “Witnessing these magnificent primates is a privilege, and we are dedicated to ensuring that our presence has a positive and lasting impact on their future and the future of Rwanda.”
Gondwana Ecotours promises comfortable and characterful accommodations paired with delightful dining experiences. Guests will spend time at the 4-star Heaven Boutique Hotel, offering locally decorated rooms, warm hospitality, an open-air restaurant with magnificent views, and a solar-heated pool. In Nyungwe Forest, the hilltop Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel provides secluded stays in spacious cottages with private verandas and fireplaces, alongside breathtaking panoramic views. By Lake Kivu, Cormoran Lodge offers a peaceful retreat in charming wooden cabins with stunning lake and island views, where guests can enjoy fresh, locally-sourced meals in an open-air restaurant. Finally, near Volcanoes National Park, Ingagi Park View Lodge provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere with wooden furnishings and fireplaces, and its restaurant serves a blend of local and international cuisine amidst lush surroundings and volcano views.
Beyond the primate encounters, the “Rwanda: Gorillas, Chimps & National Parks Adventure” offers a comprehensive immersion into Rwandan culture and the beauty of its landscapes:
- Kigali Cultural Immersion: Upon arrival, guests can opt for an initial exploration of Kigali, potentially including a visit to the sobering yet essential Kigali Genocide Memorial. The tour features a hands-on Rwandan cooking class, providing insight into local culinary traditions, followed by enjoying the prepared meal with local women. A guided city walk offers further cultural context.
- Lake Kivu Exploration: The itinerary includes a visit to the stunning Lake Kivu, where participants can enjoy kayaking along the tranquil shores, offering scenic views of the surrounding hills and islands. A relaxing boat trip further allows for exploration of the lake’s beauty.
- Local Community Engagement: A visit to a local yarn farm provides an opportunity to witness traditional craftsmanship and learn about the process of textile production, supporting local economic empowerment.
- Responsible Tourism: Gondwana Ecotours is committed to sustainability. The tour price encompasses all lodging, expert local guides, delicious meals, park entrance fees (including the gorilla trekking permit), and a range of enriching activities. Importantly, it also includes a donation to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and carbon neutralization of the entire tour.
About Gondwana Ecotours: Gondwana Ecotours specializes in small-group, guided tours to bucket-list destinations around the world. Sustainability is front of mind, and we are constantly working towards reducing our environmental footprint, both globally and locally. Our itineraries are carefully curated to include unique and fun activities that are grounded in meaningful encounters with nature, wildlife, and local culture, and that are physically suitable for most travelers.
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