4-Day Thrilling Budget Chimp Trek & Lake Kivu Tour

4 Days

Embark on an unforgettable 4-Day Thrilling Budget Chimp Trek & Lake Kivu Tour, where primate encounters, lush rainforest landscapes, and serene lakeside relaxation come together in one compact yet extraordinary adventure. Your journey begins with a scenic drive to Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a biodiversity hotspot teeming with life. Here, set out on an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking experience, tracking these energetic primates through dense forest trails while surrounded by birdsong and breathtaking greenery. After immersive forest exploration, continue to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, where relaxation and stunning scenery provide the perfect contrast to your adventure.

In Nyungwe, guided treks offer incredible opportunities to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat as they swing through the canopy and communicate with lively calls. Expert trackers and guides enrich the experience with insights into primate behavior, forest ecology, and conservation efforts. Beyond chimp trekking, the park’s misty landscapes, waterfalls, and canopy walk create a truly immersive rainforest experience filled with both excitement and serenity.

Your journey concludes along the idyllic shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes, framed by rolling hills and dotted with charming lakeside towns. Here, unwind with peaceful boat rides, enjoy the fresh breeze off the water, or simply relax at your lodge while taking in panoramic views. The calm atmosphere, combined with warm hospitality, provides a refreshing finale to your adventure. Blending thrilling wildlife encounters with scenic beauty and relaxation, this 4-Day Chimp Trek & Lake Kivu Tour offers a perfectly balanced and memorable Rwandan escape.

Cost per person:

Starting from: USD $1550 (Budget Accommodation) per person based on two travelers sharing

 1 Person2 People3 People4 People5 People6 People
Jan-April$2150$1550$1350$1250$1150$1050
May- August$2350$1750$1550$1450$1350$1250
Sept- Dec$2250$1650$1450$1350$1250$1150

Cost Per Child (Discount)

Age0-2 years old3-6 years old7-10 years old11-13 years old14+ years old
Discount Rate100%65%50%15%0%

 

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Budget Lodges
  • English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, Italian, and Chinese speaking guides
  • Safari Van/ 4X4 Landcruiser
  • 1-100 people
  • 1-90 years old
  • January - December
  • Kigali International Airport
  • Kigali International Airport

Why This Tour?

4-Day Thrilling Budget Chimp Trek & Lake Kivu Tour

Embark on an epic East African adventure with our 4-Day Thrilling Budget Chimp Trek in Nyungwe & Lake Kivu Tour! Imagine tracking chimpanzees in Rwanda's lush Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa's oldest rainforests, getting up close with our primate cousins, and then unwinding by the breathtaking shores of Lake Kivu – a journey blending wildlife thrills, scenic beauty, and Rwanda's vibrant culture. With budget-friendly comfort, expert guides, and action-packed adventures, you'll dive into the wild heart of Rwanda's best-kept secrets. Where chimps, forests, and lakes create memories in Rwanda!

Rwanda Tours

You will visit Nyungwe National Park and Lake Kivu.

During this safari, you will visit Nyungwe National Park that is famous for chimpanzees and the canopy walkway. Chimp trekking in Nyungwe National Park is a thrilling and immersive rainforest experience. Guided by expert trackers, you will hike through dense, misty trails in search of lively chimpanzee troops. Once located, you can observe them as they swing through trees, groom, feed, and communicate with energetic calls. The trek can be challenging, but the reward is great. Along the way, the rich biodiversity, birds, butterflies, and unique plants add to the adventure, making it a perfect blend of excitement, nature, and discovery.

Another activity in Nyungwe National Park is the exhilarating canopy walk, a unique experience that offers a bird’s-eye view of the ancient rainforest. Suspended high above the forest floor, this narrow bridge stretches across lush valleys, allowing visitors to walk among treetops and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. As you cross, you may spot monkeys, colorful birds, and butterflies moving through the canopy. The gentle sway of the bridge adds a sense of adventure, making it both thrilling and memorable. It’s a perfect way to appreciate the forest’s beauty from a completely different perspective.

Lake Kivu is one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes, offering a calm and scenic escape along Rwanda’s western border. Surrounded by rolling green hills and charming lakeside towns like Gisenyi and Kibuye, the lake provides a perfect setting for relaxation after adventure. You will enjoy boat cruises, kayaking, swimming, (some of which are optional activities payable at the location) or simply unwind on sandy shores while taking in stunning sunsets. The calm, fresh waters and gentle breezes create a soothing atmosphere, while local fishing communities add cultural charm. Lake Kivu’s blend of natural beauty and tranquility makes it an ideal destination to relax and recharge.

Don’t miss the chance to experience Rwanda’s natural beauty on this 4-Day Thrilling Chimp Trek & Lake Kivu Tour, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Journey into the heart of Nyungwe National Park, where you’ll trek through dense, misty forest in search of energetic chimpanzees and discover the rich biodiversity of this ancient rainforest. Then, unwind along the scenic shores of Lake Kivu, where calm waters, rolling hills, and peaceful lakeside moments offer a refreshing escape. This short yet unforgettable getaway combines thrilling primate encounters with serene landscapes, making it an ideal Rwandan adventure—book now for a truly memorable experience!

Highlights

  • Chimpanzee Trekking
  • Canopy Walk
  • Kayaking
  • Swimming
  • Cultural Interaction
  • Boat Trip

Tour Plan

  • Day
    01

    Arrive In Rwanda | Transfer To Nyungwe National Park | Relaxing

    On arrival in Rwanda, you will be welcomed and picked up by our Kubwa Five Safaris guide who will be holding an A4 paper with your name printed on it at Kigali International Airport. You’ll then be transferred to Nyungwe National Park.

    3-Day Thrilling Kibale Chimpanzee Mid-Range Tour

    Nyungwe National Park protects East Africa's largest tract of montane rainforest. You'll start to appreciate its extent as you wind along the road that bisects the park, offering grandstand views over waves of forested hills that roll towards the Burundi border. 

    Meals and overnight at Kitabi Eco-Center/ Gisakura Guest House/ Nyungwe Eco Village.

  • Day
    02

    Chimpanzee Trekking In Nyungwe National Park | Canopy Walk

    After breakfast, you and your guide together with packed lunches will head out to the park head offices for a briefing about the do's and don'ts of Chimpanzee trekking.

    After the briefing, head out to trek the chimpanzees.

    Come with us as we trek through the forest in search of chimpanzees. Once we find these remarkable primates, you'll share an extraordinary encounter with some of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

    After the trekking, return to your lodge and relax.

    Later on, you will go for a canopy walk.

    We will walk through the treetops on Nyungwe’s famous canopy walk, a thrilling metallic construction suspended 40m above the forest floor between the higher slopes and giant trees of a steep valley.

    A 130km trail network provides an intimate experience of the forest interior, with its ancient hardwood trees, tangled lianas, babbling waterfalls and fern-lined streams. In terms of wildlife, Nyungwe is best known for supporting 13 species of primate, including chimpanzee, L’Hoest’s monkey, Rwenzori colobus and the sloth-like potto. A checklist of 310 forest species makes it Rwanda’s premier birding destination.

    Meals and overnight at Kitabi Eco-Center/ Gisakura Guest House/ Nyungwe Eco Village.

  • Day
    03

    Transfer To Lake Kivu | Boat Ride | Optional Activities | Relaxing

    After breakfast, you will be driven to Lake Kivu. 

    On arrival, you will have a boat ride on Lake Kivu. This experience also offers the chance to visit some of Lake Kivu’s scenic islands, such as Napoleon Island, known for its panoramic views and resident fruit bats and watch the swimming cows.

    Meals and overnight at Kinunu Guest House / Ishara Beach Motel / Cyimbili Guest House.

  • Day
    04

    The Last Day With Us | Transfer To The Airport | Fly Back Home

    After breakfast, you will be driven to Kigali International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

    If you have time before your flight, you will have the local market tour in Kigali. Here you can explore a lively arts scene, traditional markets, several museums and memorials, and tempting restaurants representing most global cuisines.

    Kigali Market Tour

    It's a pity that it has to end, but this is where your safari will draw to a close. We're sure that you will return home with so many exciting and happy memories, and we hope that you will join us again on safari sometime in the future.

Inclusions

  • One chimpanzee permit per person to be secured and paid for well in advance
  • Services of an expert guide
  • Airport transfer (Airport pick up and drop off)
  • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Ground transportation (4×4 safari Landcruiser / minivan with pop-up tops)
  • Full board accommodation and en route meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Park fees and relevant government taxes.

Exclusions

  • Airfares
  • Visa fees
  • Personal insurance
  • Expenses of personal nature, such as drinks, tips, laundry, telephone, and cigarettes
  • Accommodation and meals not indicated in the itinerary

Accommodation

Throughout this exciting journey, you will be accommodated in a variety of accommodations.

The accommodation is appropriate and will be determined by your budget. Kubwa Five Safaris offers the best service at every level. Kubwa Five Safaris reserves the right to substitute comparable or superior accommodations. If an equivalent standard hotel is not available, Kubwa Five Safaris may substitute the next best quality hotel or suggest a superior for an additional fee. Hotels and lodges provide free Wi-Fi.

How to Get There

Arrival by airplane

Please book your flight to arrive at Kigali International Airport. Transfer from the airport is included. Kubwa Five Safaris will pick you up from Kigali International Airport. No additional charges.

After your thrilling vacation in Rwanda, Kubwa Five Safaris will drop you off at Kigali International Airport for your scheduled flight back home. Airport transfer is included.

Visa Applications

Please write to us for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is included in the safari package cost?

The cost covers all accommodations, meals as specified, park entrance fees, game drives, chimpanzee permits, boat ride, guide services, and ground transportation throughout the safari.

2. Are chimpanzee trekking permits included?

Yes. Chimpanzee trekking permits are included in the total cost of the trip.

3. What should I pack for this 4-day safari?

Essentials include lightweight clothing, hiking boots, a rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. A full packing list will be shared upon booking.

4. Is this safari suitable for families with children?

Yes, but children under 15 are not allowed to participate in chimpanzee trekking. We offer alternative activities for young children on those days.

5. What type of accommodations are provided?

We use clean, safe, and comfortable lodges. All accommodations have private self-contained rooms; bathrooms are inside the rooms/tents.

6. Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes. We cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Please let us know your preferences in advance.

7. How physically demanding is the safari?

Due to chimpanzee trekking and canopy walk, the safari requires moderate physical fitness because of the hiking in mountainous and forested terrain.

8. Is travel insurance required?

Yes. We strongly recommend that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

9. What is the group size?

Our private safari is tailored to provide an intimate and immersive experience for small groups. We accommodate groups of 4 to 24 travelers, ensuring that each participant receives personalized attention and a unique safari experience.

10. Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes, we can tailor this safari to fit your schedule, interests, or accommodation preferences. Contact us for a personalized quote.

11. Why You Should Visit Rwanda

  • Rwanda

Rwanda is a destination that surprises and inspires. Lush green hills roll endlessly, dotted with tea plantations and sparkling lakes.

Kigali welcomes visitors with clean streets, vibrant cafés, art, and moving history. Rwanda is safe, easy to travel, and rich in culture, from traditional dance to warm hospitality. Whether you love wildlife, scenery, or meaningful travel, Rwanda offers beauty, depth, and authenticity in every moment. Come curious and leave changed, carrying memories that stay with you forever long after home.