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Primate-Focused Conservation Experience
RESERVE

Join us in Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills, for a 6-night conservation journey that blends breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and rare primate encounters.

We’ll explore Rwanda’s most important primate habitats, from the ancient Nyungwe Forest to the slopes of Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, you’ll encounter chimpanzees, optional gorilla trekking, local communities, and landscapes that will take your breath away.

Duration: 7 nights / 8 days

Dates: November 23 – November 30, 2027 

Start: Kigali | End: Kigali

Group Size: 8 – 12 travelers

Pace: Active, immersive, and soul-stirring

RESERVE

Questions? Email us.

what to expect

Experience Highlights

Volcanoes National Park

Journey into the misty rainforest and stand face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in their wild home.

Lake Kivu by Traditional Boat

Glide across serene waters, pass forested islands, and stop for a coffee tour in the heart of Rwanda’s bean belt.

Nyungwe Canopy Walk

Walk 70 meters above the forest floor for breathtaking views of one of Africa’s oldest rainforests.

Ethnographic Museum in Butare

Gain deeper insight into Rwanda’s rich cultural history with curated exhibits during a scenic countryside drive.

Rwandan Village & Cultural Dance

Share meals, stories, and music with local communities working to preserve culture and protect wildlife.

Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest

Hike through dense jungle with expert rangers and Jane Goodall Institute staff as you identify and observe chimpanzee families.

Rwanda stirs the soul with its misty mountains, vibrant culture,
and deep conservation purpose.

Land of a Thousand Hills,

Countless Encounters

$

Trek through misty Volcanoes National Park to witness mountain gorillas in their natural habitat

$

Cruise across Lake Kivu’s glassy waters and savoring coffee fresh from the plantation

$

Track and identify chimpanzee families in Nyungwe Forest

$

Walk high above the ancient rainforest on Nyungwe’s breathtaking canopy bridge

$

Experience vibrant Rwandan culture through music, dance, and village visits

$

Explore Kigali’s dynamic art scene and reflecting at the Genocide Memorial

The Itinerary

Day by Day Experience

Day 1

Arrival in Kigali

Upon touching down in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, you’re greeted by our team and whisked to your comfortable hotel amid bustling streets pulsing with life and renewal. This eve sets the stage for an odyssey into the heart of Rwanda’s untamed wonders, where history’s resilient spirit ignites your adventurous soul. Depending on your arrival, savor a welcome dinner infused with local flavors as you anticipate the primal encounters ahead—gorillas and chimpanzees—building toward the bold embrace of your eyes that awaits you.

Day 2

Kigali Exploration

Wake in Kigali, where a poignant city tour and Genocide Memorial visit evoke profound reflection on resilience and hope. Witness urban renaissance blending poignant history with forward zeal, stirring educated admiration for Rwanda’s phoenix rise. Visit the Myamirambo Womens Center, and participate in a cooking class while you learn about the local community and impact of the Women’s Center. Experience the rich culture of Rwanda, in the heart of this city, before embracing the lands and primates. 

Day 3

Travel to Nyungwe Forest

As we watch the city disappear behind us, excitment will grow as we make our way to Nyungwe Forest for our first priamte expereince. Once we arrive, and settle into our forest camp, there will be an optional evening canopy walk. Here you will bare witness to the forest coming to life once the sun begins to set. Listening for the calls of the Chimpanzees, birds and other primates that call this forest home.

Day 4

Chimp Trek & Canopy Walk

Breakfast precedes chimp briefing; soon, Nyungwe’s ancient canopy erupts with chattering acrobats swinging wildly—pure, joyous pandemonium ignites childlike wonder. Post-trek lunch, traverse the soaring canopy walk, a suspended bridge unveiling rainforest vistas where colobus drift below like ethereal spirits. Heart soaring amid treetop realms, this pinnacle day marries intellect with visceral thrill, etching Rwanda’s biodiversity into your exhilarated soul.

Day 5

Lake Kivu and Volcanoes Bound

As we transfer to Volcanoes National Park we will stop along the way to enjoy a boat ride on Lake Kivu, a spectacular vista sunken within the thousand hills of Rwanda. Experience what life on the banks of the lake looks like for the local communities before we assend into the mountains to for the most anticipated day yet!

Day 6

Gorilla Trek

An early mornig, filled with anticipation and possibly underlying butterflies as we make our way for the briefing point. Today is the day, Mountain Gorillas that will spellbound you and leave you captivated and full of awe. Our private journey will be savored, through the each step and your breath will be taken away, the moment you see our Gorilla family. The moments are fast, soak them in and savor this indredible moment in your journey. Post-trek lunch, will be full of sharing photos, emotions and apprecaition for the efforts of those who carry the weight of protecting the remaining Mountain Gorilla families. 

Day 7

Golden Monkey Trek + Dian Fossey Exhibit

On our final full day, we will visit the Dian Fossey Experience. An exceptionally beautiful tribute to the legend who brought us to these incredible creatures. You are bound to leave with a sense of gratitude, awe, and an even more profound appreciation for your earlier trek. We  will also have the opportunity for an optional Golden Monkey Trek, or a visit to a local village for a chocolate experience. 

Day 8

Kigali Farewell

Final breakfast launches your return to Kigali. As our guide bids adieu to airport or hotel, carry the emotive roar of gorillas, chimp calls, and savanna winds—your spirit forever transformed by this intelligent adventure. This jouney will stick with you long past your return home. 

The Accommodations

Where We Will Stay

Thoughtfully selected lodges offering comfort amid extraordinary settings.

Millie Collines

Kigali

Hôtel des Mille Collines is surely the most famous hotel in Rwanda! Located in the central business district, the hotel allows you to enjoy the breathtaking views over the hills of Kigali while indulging in culinary delights from casual to fine dining, international cuisine to local signature dishes! The hotel has also for long been known to promote local artists as well as the Rwandan Culture and produce.

Munazi Lodge

Nyungwe

Tucked away in the lush forests of Nyungwe, Munazi Lodge is built using reclaimed exotic wood from the National Park, helping native plants regenerate and supporting the local environment.  From the handcrafted furniture to the thoughtful design of their spaces, by local artisans and construction teams, working closely with park managers and engineers. It’s a community effort, rooted in sustainability and respect for the land.

Volcanoes Gorilla Hotel

Musanze

Your serene haven in the heart of Rwanda, Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel offers the optimum blend of superb cuisine, ultra-fresh locally-sourced ingredients, globally-inspired menus, and vibrantly colourful entertainment. 

Note: Accommodations are subject to change. Hotels may vary based on availability, but will be comparable in star level & services.

THE DETAILS

Inclusions VS Exclusions

THE DETAILS

Inclusions

R
Accommodations: Boutique hotel stays offering unique, a comfortable experience
R

Transportation: All in-country transportation throughout the trip for group experiences

R

Trip Director: A seasoned MPE director accompanies the group throughout the journey

R

Daily Breakfast + Select Meals

R

Tours and Activities: All organized group tours and activities

R

Guide Gratuities: Gratuities for guides during all organized tours and activities are included

Exclusions

International Airfaire
Travel Insurance
Alcohol and Meals not listed in itinerary
Personal Expenses (snacks, laundry, additional gratuities, calls, etc.)
Non-Itinerary Activities: Excursions, or deviations from the trip itinerary

Visa or Passport Fees: Costs associated with obtaining passports and visas

Live Lightly,
Travel Deeply,
Explore Rwanda

$6,750

Per Person, Double Room occupancy, Single Rooms based on Availability

Reserve your spot for a $1500 deposit 

RESERVE

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Terms & Conditions

YOUR QUESTIONS

MPE ANSWERS

What is the Guaranteed Departure Supplement?
Our pricing is based on a minimum number of guests to provide exceptional benefits from shared experiences. If a trip moves forward with fewer travelers, a Guaranteed Departure Supplement (GDS) may be added to maintain the full itinerary and standard of service. Once the GDS amount is determined, you’ll have the choice to accept it to confirm your departure or cancel under MPE’s standard cancellation policy. If additional travelers join later, any GDS fees already paid will be refunded in full.
What is the cancellation policy?

Written notice of cancellation must be received by certified mail or email.  Cancellation fees are based on the total value of the trip and are as follows: should you, as the traveler, need to cancel your travels:

  • 120+ days prior to departure: traveler will receive 100% refund, less the initial non-refundable deposit. 

  • Less than 120 days prior to departure: no refund will be provided.

What is included in my trip price?
Each MPE itinerary is carefully handcrafted by our experienced team. This includes carefully selected accommodations (typically four- and five-star properties), in-country transportation, guided experiences with local cultural experts, exclusive tastings, and authentic hands-on activities. Also included are entrance fees to scheduled sites, daily breakfasts, select lunches and dinners, depending on the trip, and regional beverages and water with included meals.
What is NOT included in my trip price?
International airfare, travel insurance, activities not listed in the itinerary, hotel incidentals such as minibar use or room service, laundry, meals, and drinks that fall outside the planned itinerary, and gratuities for your MPE Trip Director are not included.
What travel documents do I need?
A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity from the trip’s start date is required for all guests. Visa requirements vary by destination, so we recommend verifying current entry rules before booking. Non-U.S. travelers should check with the embassy or consulate of the destination country for visa and entry information. Visit the SHERPA website [https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions] to enquire about any specific visa needs.
Do I need travel insurance?

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for every trip. Comprehensive coverage protects your investment if plans change unexpectedly or in the event of medical emergencies, delayed travel, or lost belongings. For the best protection, ensure the entire trip amount is paid within two weeks of booking. Note that some “Cancel for Any Reason” policies must be purchased on the same day your initial deposit is made, or within 14 days. We love working with Faye Insurance as well as Global Rescue. Note: Some trips require travel insurance; this is noted on individual trip pages.

Do I need to pay a single supplement?
No! All MPE pricing is based on Single Occupancy. We applaud solo travelers and wish to reward your participation rather than penalize you. However, if you prefer to share a room with a friend, partner, or another traveler, you’ll receive a reduced rate for shared accommodations. While we welcome requests for two separate beds, bed configurations are subject to availability at each property and cannot be guaranteed.
When will my trip be confirmed?
Because MPE experiences are designed for small groups, each departure requires a minimum number of travelers to proceed. You’ll receive confirmation no later than 120 days before departure. If the minimum is not met, you can choose from several options: receive a full refund, transfer to another departure, convert to a private trip, or apply your credit toward future travel with MPE. We recommend delaying the purchase of nonrefundable flights until you receive your confirmation.
Who will lead my trip?
Every experience is guided by an MPE Trip Director—a seasoned travel professional who ensures every detail runs seamlessly. Throughout the trip, we’re joined by trusted local hosts and guides who bring authentic cultural insight, storytelling, and warmth to each destination.
What should I pack for my trip? Is there a dress code?
Once your adventure is confirmed, MPE sends a curated packing list with destination-specific climate information, dress code recommendations for cultural sites, and suggested attire for any special occasions or group dinners. Our goal is to help you feel both comfortable and prepared throughout your journey.​
How much free time will I have during the trip?
MPE itineraries are curated to blend immersive group experiences with plenty of downtime. Most days feature guided activities as well as unscheduled hours, giving you freedom to relax, explore independently, or participate in optional excursions tailored to your interests.​
What is the process for booking, confirmation, and pre-trip support?
Booking an MPE journey is straightforward. Reserve your spot through our website or with a trip specialist and submit your deposit. You’ll receive confirmation once the minimum number of travelers is reached. Well in advance of departure, our team will send detailed travel documents, packing advice, and will provide personalized support for any pre-trip questions or requests—ensuring you’re well-prepared and confident for your adventure.​
Who else will be in my group?
MPE groups are small by design -- typically 8 to 14 travelers. Our travelers tend to be curious, experienced, and independent-minded people who want to be immersed in a destination, not insulated from it. Many travel solo or as couples. Some bring friends or family members. Groups form quickly because the shared experience does the work.

If you have specific questions about the composition of a particular departure, reach out to us directly. We are happy to tell you what we know.

Family-forward note (for trips like Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania):

These departures are well suited to families traveling with children aged 10 and up. Past family travelers have found the pace, the guides, and the group dynamic work beautifully for younger travelers who are ready for an immersive experience. If you are traveling with children, let us know and we will share more about what to expect.

What level of physical fitness or mobility is required?
Every MPE journey invites you to truly experience your surroundings—whether strolling through local markets, exploring ancient ruins, or meandering through hillside villages. Our itineraries include full days of active discovery, with walking on varied terrain and distances that may total up to 5 miles a day, ensuring you see each destination from its most authentic perspective.