How challenging is the Chimpanzee Trekking versus the Golden Monkey Trekking?

The Chimpanzee Trek in Nyungwe is generally considered the most strenuous activity. It requires an early start (briefing as early as 5:00 AM), involves hiking in steep, high-altitude terrain, and is a fast-paced "chase" to keep up with the mobile chimps. Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes NP, by contrast, is typically much easier and shorter. The golden monkeys often live in the accessible bamboo zone at the base of the volcanoes, making it a moderately easy walk.

What is the Chimpanzee Trekking Permit cost, and what does it support?

The non-resident Chimpanzee Trekking Permit for Nyungwe Forest National Park costs $250 per person. This mandatory fee is included in your tour and is crucial for the conservation of these magnificent primates and their rainforest habitat. The funds directly support park operations, anti-poaching patrols, ranger salaries, and community development projects that make conservation sustainable

What should I pack for the Chimpanzee and Golden Monkey treks?

We strongly recommend durable, layered clothing. Essentials include gardening gloves (to protect your hands from stinging nettles), a waterproof jacket/poncho, long-sleeved shirts, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, and thick socks. For the early start in Nyungwe, a warm fleece or jacket is a must. Don't forget powerful insect repellent, a hat, and a good camera with a rain cover!

6-Day Rwanda Chimpanzee & Golden Monkey Trekking Tour

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Rwanda Chimpanzee & Golden Monkey Trekking Tour

Imagine the electric thrill of tracking our closest relatives through an ancient, misty rainforest, followed by the sheer joy of watching rare, golden-furred primates leap through bamboo. This is the heart of the 6-Day Rwanda Chimpanzee & Golden Monkey Trekking Tour, a journey designed for the true primate enthusiast seeking an intimate, uncrowded experience that doesn’t demand the high-end cost of a gorilla permit.

Our adventure begins in the high-altitude, emerald cathedral of Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to nearly 500 Chimpanzees. Rising before dawn, you’ll follow expert trackers deep into the dense, green canopy, listening for the distinct pant-hoot calls that announce your arrival. The hour you spend with these energetic, highly intelligent creatures, watching their social dynamics unfold, is a profound and deeply moving encounter.

From the lush south, we traverse Rwanda’s famous “Land of a Thousand Hills,” stopping for a restorative break on the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu. Here, the pace slows, offering a chance to reflect before we head north to the dramatic Virunga Massif.

The second highlight is the lively Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Unlike the chimps, these charismatic primates are almost entirely ground-dwelling, their striking golden coats a vibrant flash against the emerald bamboo. The experience is one of pure, cheerful energy. This 6-day itinerary by Hope Tours Africa perfectly balances exhilarating wildlife encounters with cultural immersion and scenic relaxation, concluding with a hopeful look at the resilient spirit of Kigali. It is the ultimate Rwanda Primate Safari Without Gorillas.

Accommodation options:
Standard: One Click Hotel, EAR Ken Barham Guest House, Cormoran Lodge , Grotta Resort

Midrange: Cozy Safaris, Nyungwe Topview Hill, Cormoran Lodge, Grotta Resort

Accommodation Options	1 Pax	2 Pax	3 Pax	4 Pax	5 Pax	6 Pax
Standard	$4,240	$2,300	$2,150	$1,800	$1,750	$1,570
Midrange	$4,350	$2,640	$2,550	$1,995	$1,900	$1,790

Why Book With Hope Tours Africa?

At Hope Tours Africa, we live and breathe Rwanda’s wilderness. Our 12+ years of expertise writing high-ranking content and leading safaris ensures your journey is seamless, ethical, and deeply enriching. This specific tour is our masterclass in value-driven primate trekking. We focus intensely on the Chimpanzees and Golden Monkeys, allowing you more quality time with these incredible creatures and avoiding the high cost of a gorilla permit giving you a superior experience for your budget. Our guides are local experts, ensuring you get not just a tour, but real, authentic Rwandan insights and guaranteed adherence to all park safety protocols, giving you complete trustworthiness on the ground.

Highlights

Chimpanzee trekking
Golden Monkey Trekking
Lake Kivu Exploration

Day 01 :

Arrival at Kigali International Airport

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport (KGL), you will be warmly welcomed by your private Hope Tours Africa guide. After a brief introduction, we transfer you to your comfortable accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure, a moment to unwind and prepare for the exhilarating adventure ahead. Settle in, absorb the crisp air, and know that your primal journey is about to begin.

(Overnight: Cozy Safaris or similar Mid-Range)

Breakfast

Day 02 :

Transfer to Nyungwe National Park

After an early breakfast, we begin the scenic drive south towards Nyungwe Forest National Park (6 hours drive). This drive is a masterclass in why Rwanda is called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” with stunning views of terraced farms and rolling tea plantations. We’ll stop for lunch en-route. Upon arrival at your lodge perched high above the forest, you’ll check in and prepare for the early morning Chimpanzee trek. The sounds of the ancient montane rainforest will be your evening lullaby.

(Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hill or similar Mid-Range)

Breakfast

Day 03 :

Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Lake Kivu

The day begins before dawn. Your guide will transfer you to the park office for the Chimpanzee Trekking briefing. The chase for the chimps is high energy a quick-paced trek through the dense forest, often requiring you to follow them as they swing through the canopy. The hour you spend observing their complex family life is an unparalleled spectacle of intelligence and chaos. After the trek, we transfer to the peaceful shores of Lake Kivu (3 hours Drive), the perfect relaxing break after the high-altitude effort of the morning.

(Overnight: Cormoran Lodge or similar Midrange)

Breakfast

Day 04 :

Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Wake up to the gentle waves of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s great Rift Valley lakes. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and the stunning views from your lodge a true moment of tranquility. After lunch, we take the beautiful road north, driving along the Kivu Belt toward the dramatic, mist-shrouded Virunga Volcanoes in the north, home to the Golden Monkeys (3-4 hours drive). The air grows cooler as you near Volcanoes National Park, setting the scene for your final primate encounter.

(Overnight: Grotta Resort or similar Mid-Range)

Breakfast

Day 05 :

Golden Monkey Trekking & Transfer back to Kigali

After an early start and briefing at the Kinigi park headquarters, we set off for the Golden Monkey Trekking. This is often a shorter, easier trek than the chimps, leading us into the bamboo thickets at the base of the volcanoes. The endangered Golden Monkeys are a visual delight, their troops moving quickly and gracefully as they forage and play. You have a full hour to witness their striking colour and cheerful antics. Following this exhilarating encounter, we transfer back to Kigali (3 hours drive).

(Overnight: Cozy Safaris or similar Mid-Range)

Breakfast

Day 06 :

Kigali City Tour & Departure

Your final day is dedicated to understanding the soul of Rwanda. We begin with a profound visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful and essential experience that speaks to the resilience and hope of the nation. We continue with a tour of the city, including the colourful craft markets and vibrant areas like the Kimironko Market. Depending on your flight schedule, your guide will then transfer you to Kigali International Airport (KGL) for your onward journey, your heart full of primal memories.

Breakfast