7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari with Chimps, Culture, and Gorilla Trekking

A Journey of Adventure and Discovery Across Rwanda’s Breathtaking Landscapes

The 7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari is designed for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts looking to explore the beauty and rich culture of Rwanda while embracing the thrill of cycling. This safari combines the excitement of cycling through scenic landscapes with wildlife tracking, cultural immersion, and visits to some of Rwanda’s most famous national parks. With a focus on the primates that inhabit Rwanda, including chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and mountain gorillas, this tour provides a well-rounded experience of the country’s biodiversity.

Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” offers an abundance of natural beauty that comes to life on this 7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari adventure. From cycling through Kigali’s vibrant streets to tracking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, this journey highlights Rwanda’s unique ecosystems and offers a glimpse into the local cultures and communities that call this beautiful country home. The diverse landscape, ranging from lush forests and misty mountains to tranquil lakeshores, makes it the perfect setting for a thrilling cycling safari.

Throughout the 7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari, you will be guided by experienced local guides who will ensure you get the most out of your cycling experience and animal encounters. Whether you are traversing the hilly terrain of Nyungwe Forest or relaxing by the shores of Lake Kivu, each day presents new opportunities for adventure and discovery.

Detailed 7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari

Day 1: Welcome to Kigali City, Rwanda – Cycle Around Kigali City

A Scenic Introduction to Rwanda’s Capital

Your exciting 7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital and one of the cleanest cities in Africa. Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by your 7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari expert guide who will take you to your hotel. After a brief rest and orientation session, the adventure begins with a cycling tour of the city, which is set across several rolling hills.

The first day offers a perfect introduction to the culture, history, and landscapes of Rwanda. You will cycle through Kigali’s vibrant streets, past colorful markets, and local neighborhoods, where you can get a taste of urban life in Rwanda. Kigali’s hilly terrain provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city below, and as you cycle along, you’ll catch glimpses of the stunning natural beauty surrounding the city.

A major highlight of the day is a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This memorial serves as a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s tragic past and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the 1994 genocide, its impact, and the country’s remarkable recovery. After a moving experience at the memorial, the cycling tour continues, passing through the Nyamirambo district, a lively area known for its colorful houses and lively local culture.

As evening approaches, enjoy a traditional Rwandan dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor dishes such as brochettes (grilled meat skewers) and Ugandan-style matoke (plantains). Afterward, relax and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.

 

Day 2: Cycling Trip from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park – Forest Walk

A Scenic Journey through the Heart of Rwanda’s Forests

On day two, after a hearty breakfast, you will set out on a thrilling 200-kilometer cycling trip from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in the southwest of Rwanda. The journey takes you through Rwanda’s scenic countryside, offering magnificent views of terraced hills, tea plantations, and the dramatic landscapes that characterize much of the country.

As you cycle, you will pass through small villages, where you can stop to interact with the locals and learn more about their way of life. The route takes you through some of the country’s most scenic areas, including lush green valleys and picturesque hills that will make for great photo opportunities.

Upon reaching Nyungwe Forest National Park, you’ll check in to your lodge and have some time to rest. In the afternoon, you will enjoy a guided forest walk through the park. Nyungwe Forest is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, home to a variety of primates, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and golden monkeys. During your walk, you may spot some of these primates, as well as rare birds and plant species.

The forest is also known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. After your walk, relax at your lodge, surrounded by the beauty of Nyungwe’s pristine wilderness.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

Tracking Chimpanzees and Soaring Through the Trees

Day three begins with an early morning briefing, after which you will embark on an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking experience. Nyungwe Forest is home to a large population of chimpanzees, and tracking them through the forest is an exciting and rewarding adventure. Accompanied by 7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari experienced guides, you will venture into the dense jungle in search of these fascinating primates.

Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe is a thrilling activity that offers you a chance to witness the intelligence and social behaviors of these incredible creatures. Once you encounter a group, you will have the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat, making it a truly unique wildlife experience.

In the afternoon, you will enjoy the famous Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the forest from high above the ground. The canopy walk consists of a series of suspension bridges, providing stunning views of the forest, as well as opportunities to spot more primates, birds, and other wildlife. The canopy walk is a great way to appreciate the biodiversity of Nyungwe from a unique perspective.

After the day’s exciting activities, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest and enjoy a delicious dinner surrounded by the sounds of the forest.

 

Day 4: Cycling Trip to Lake Kivu in Gisenyi – Congo Border Trail Cycling and Sunset Boat Cruise at Lake Kivu

A Scenic Cycling Adventure to Lake Kivu

On day four, after breakfast, you will cycle from Nyungwe Forest to the serene shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi, located near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The route takes you through rolling hills, dense forests, and scenic landscapes that are characteristic of Rwanda’s western region. This 130-kilometer cycling route offers stunning views of the countryside and is an ideal way to experience Rwanda’s natural beauty up close.

Upon arriving in Gisenyi, check in to your lakeside accommodation and enjoy a relaxing break. Lake Kivu is one of Africa’s Great Lakes, known for its crystal-clear waters and surrounding scenic beauty. In the afternoon, you will take a boat cruise on the lake to witness the tranquility of the area and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes across the water. The boat cruise offers a peaceful way to reflect on your journey so far and to take in the surrounding beauty.

As the evening approaches, you’ll enjoy a sunset cruise, which provides the perfect opportunity for photographs as the sun sets behind the mountains. Afterward, you’ll return to your lodge for dinner, where you can savor fresh local fish and other Rwandan specialties.

Day 5: Cycling Trip to Volcanoes National Park – Visit Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village and Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

Exploring Volcanoes National Park and Learning About Gorilla Conservation

Day five begins with a morning cycling trip to Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas. The cycling route takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Ruhengeri region, where you’ll see vast fields of crops, terraced hills, and dramatic views of the Virunga Volcanoes in the distance. The park is one of the most famous places in Africa for tracking gorillas, and it is also known for its stunning scenery and vibrant cultural history.

Upon arriving at Volcanoes National Park, you will first visit Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, a local community initiative that offers visitors a chance to experience Rwandan culture. At the village, you can watch traditional dances, learn about local customs, and interact with the villagers. It’s a great way to connect with the people and culture of Rwanda.

In the afternoon, you will visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, dedicated to the conservation of mountain gorillas. The fund’s headquarters is located near Volcanoes National Park and offers visitors a fascinating look at the life and work of Dian Fossey, a pioneering primatologist who dedicated her life to protecting gorillas. This visit will deepen your understanding of gorilla conservation efforts and the challenges faced by these incredible creatures.

 

Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park and Cycling to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Tracking Golden Monkeys and Cycling to Bwindi Forest

On day six, you will experience another exciting wildlife encounter: golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park. Golden monkeys are an endangered species endemic to the Virunga Mountains, and they are known for their playful and inquisitive nature. During the tracking experience, you will have the chance to observe these beautiful monkeys as they forage, play, and interact with one another in their natural habitat.

After the tracking adventure, you will cycle across the border to Uganda, heading towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, one of the most biodiverse rainforests in Africa and home to the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The 100-kilometer cycling route to Bwindi offers views of lush forests and fertile valleys, providing another chance to see the picturesque landscapes of Rwanda and Uganda.

Upon arrival at Bwindi, check in to your lodge and prepare for the ultimate wildlife experience – gorilla trekking.

Day 7: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Return to Kigali

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter with Mountain Gorillas

On the final day of your 7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari, you will enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience: mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Bwindi is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and trekking to see these magnificent creatures is one of the most memorable experiences any traveler can have. Accompanied by expert guides, you will trek through the dense forest, encountering various wildlife species along the way, until you come face to face with a family of gorillas.

After spending an hour observing the gorillas and learning about their behaviors and conservation efforts, you will return to the starting point and begin your journey back to Kigali. The road transfer from Bwindi to Kigali takes approximately 4-5 hours, offering a final chance to reflect on the incredible adventures you’ve experienced throughout the week.

End of 7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari

 

7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions	Exclusions
All accommodation during the safari	International flights
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)	Travel insurance
All park fees and permits	Visa fees
Guided cycling tours and wildlife walks	Personal expenses (tips, souvenirs, etc.)
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits	Drinks and beverages outside meals
Transportation in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle	Optional activities like helicopter tours
Boat cruises at Lake Kivu and Lake Bunyonyi	Covid-19 tests, if applicable
Cultural visits to local villages	Any extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary

Experience Kigezi Safaris: Your Trusted Partner in Cycling Adventures Across Rwanda

An Expert Safari Operator Specializing in Cycling Safaris

Experience Kigezi Safaris is a premier safari operator known for creating unforgettable cycling and adventure safaris across Uganda and Rwanda. With years of experience, Experience Kigezi Safaris ensures that each trip is tailored to provide the ultimate adventure experience, combining outdoor excitement with cultural exploration and wildlife encounters.

Whether you are cycling through the stunning landscapes of Rwanda’s hills, tracking gorillas in Bwindi Forest, or learning about local communities in Iby’Iwachu, Experience Kigezi Safaris creates enriching, eco-friendly travel experiences that highlight the best of East Africa. Their expert guides and local knowledge ensure a safe and memorable experience, with a focus on sustainability and responsible tourism.

Kigezi Safaris Service Highlights	Details
Expert Guides	Knowledgeable and friendly guides with years of experience
Cycling Safaris	Unique cycling adventures across Rwanda and Uganda
Tailored Itineraries	Customized safari itineraries to match your interests
Cultural Engagement	Interactive visits to local villages and cultural sites
Wildlife Encounters	Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and golden monkey viewing
Sustainability Focus	Eco-friendly safaris that support local communities and conservation efforts

Experience Kigezi Safaris provides a blend of adventure, culture, and wildlife, ensuring that your trip is as enriching as it is exciting. Whether you are an avid cyclist or simply looking for a unique 7-Day Rwanda Cycling Safari experience, Experience Kigezi Safaris delivers extraordinary trips that connect travelers to the heart of East Africa’s landscapes and wildlife.