Visit Rwanda

Best Time to Explore Rwanda’s Wilderness: June–September
Why This Season Fits Embracing the Wild:
At Embracing the Wild Expeditions, our journeys prioritize deep nature immersion, minimal environmental
impact, and authentic encounters with wildlife and culture. The dry season — from June to September —
provides the ideal backdrop for these transformative experiences.
• Optimal Trail Conditions: Perfect for hiking through dense rainforest and volcanic terrain without
slippery or washed-out paths.
• Gorilla & Primate Encounters: Peak time for tracking mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, with
clearer visibility and drier forests.
• High Wildlife Concentration: Akagera’s savannah animals are easiest to spot as they gather near
shrinking water sources.
• Immersive Photography Opportunities: Vibrant landscapes, golden hours, and active wildlife
offer unmatched chances for storytelling through imagery.

️Key Expedition Destinations

Curated for Meaningful Connection with Nature

1. Volcanoes National Park – The Realm of Giants
Experience:
Track endangered mountain gorillas through the misty forests of the Virunga Volcanoes, stepping into their
world for a moment that redefines your place in nature.
Expedition Highlights:
• Gorilla Trekking with certified trackers & conservation guides
• Optional hike to Mount Bisoke crater lake or visit to the Dian Fossey Tomb
• Golden monkey encounters, a rare and playful primate species
• Community integration: Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village visit for an ethical, local cultural immersion

Why It’s Perfect for Embracing the Wild:
This is not just a trek — it’s a pilgrimage into one of the last strongholds of mountain gorillas. We prioritize
small-group, respectful treks that align with conservation and local community benefits.

2.  Akagera National Park – The Reclaimed Wilderness
Experience:
Once nearly lost, now thriving — Akagera is a conservation success story. Witness the Big Five in one of
Africa’s most inspiring ecological recoveries.

Expedition Highlights:
• Sunrise and sunset game drives led by local conservationists
• Boat safaris on Lake Ihema — observe hippos, crocodiles, and rare birds from a silent drift
• Night safaris to track nocturnal predators
• Behind-the-scenes look at Akagera’s anti-poaching and rewilding programs

Why It’s Perfect for Embracing the Wild:
Every game drive supports Akagera’s remarkable rewilding efforts. We create ethical safaris that showcase
nature’s resilience and the power of community conservation.

3. Nyungwe Forest National Park – Whispers of the Rainforest
Experience:
A biodiversity haven and one of Africa’s most ancient forests, Nyungwe is alive with the calls of chimpanzees
and the rustling of countless species.

Expedition Highlights:
• Chimpanzee trekking in the early mist-covered hours
• Canopy walk 60 meters above the forest floor
• Interpretive forest hikes with primate tracking and medicinal plant education
• Immersive birdwatching for enthusiasts and researchers

Why It’s Perfect for Embracing the Wild:
Nyungwe offers a more contemplative wilderness encounter — not just seeing wildlife, but understanding the
intricate web of life in an untouched forest ecosystem.

4. Kigali – Urban Renewal & Cultural Memory
Experience:
A city of contrasts — modern, clean, and vibrant, yet deeply connected to its history and identity.

Expedition Highlights:
• Kigali Genocide Memorial: A sobering and moving journey through Rwanda’s past
• Visits to women’s cooperatives, ethical art galleries, and local markets
• Local culinary experiences and storytelling dinners
• Opportunity to meet with conservation NGOs or local wildlife advocates

Why It’s Perfect for Embracing the Wild:
Understanding a place means understanding its people. Kigali provides grounding context and a chance to
connect with the soul of Rwanda — its resilient, forward-thinking citizens.

Our Ethos in Practice:

• Low-impact travel: Small groups, minimal footprint, and eco-conscious accommodations
• Ethical wildlife interactions: Always guided by local experts, keeping respectful distances
• Community empowerment: Each expedition includes a component that supports local jobs, education,
or conservation
• Story-driven expeditions: We help you not just see — but feel, learn, and carry the story of Rwanda
forward

Narrow down on a customized itinerary;

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Day 2: Kigali → Volcanoes National Park
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Day 4: Volcanoes → Lake Kivu (Gisenyi)
Day 5: Lake Kivu → Nyungwe Forest National Park
Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk
Day 7: Return to Kigali via Huye (Butare)
Optional; Akagera National Park (Big Five Game Drives)

What we Offer;
• Private Transfers & Ground Transport
• Hand-Picked Accommodations
• Full-Board or Half-Board Dining
• All Permits & Park Entry Fees
• All Permits & Park Entry Fees

Customized Itineraries & Add-Ons ( optional)
• Tailor your expedition to your interests: photography, conservation, wellness
• Add optional experiences:
o Coffee plantation tours
o Volcano hikes
o Community volunteering
o Private sunset boat safaris
o Private wildlife photographer / videographer ( at your own cost)
o Nature-based mindfulness sessions
o Lightweight gear rentals (hiking poles, rain jackets, etc.)
o Digital detox packages or digital nomad options

Check Availability  |  Speak to a Safari Expert