Out in the Wild: Afrigay’s Rwanda Adventure
Discover Rwanda with Afrigay on a luxe, small-group LGBTQ+ journey that flows from Kigali’s creative pulse and the powerful Genocide Memorial to Musanze’s golden monkeys and a heart-stopping gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park. Sweep across Lake Kivu by private speedboat, wander emerald tea plantations, then dive into Nyungwe’s ancient rainforest for chimp tracking and the sky-high Canopy Walk. Finish in Akagera’s warm savannah with dawn game drives and a tranquil Lake Ihema cruise, plus a meeting with proud Ankole herders. Expect chic boutique stays, private transfers, curated dining and hosts who keep everything effortless. Every partner is vetted for genuine LGBTQ+ welcome—so you can relax, connect and be completely yourself while Rwanda’s thousand hills work their magic.
Experience Rwanda in a way few travellers ever do—luxuriously, inclusively, and with a vibrant group of fellow LGBTQ+ adventurers. Over nine unforgettable days, this small-group journey takes you from Kigali’s creative pulse to the misty volcanoes of the north, the ancient rainforests of the west, and the golden savannahs of the east. It’s a journey of dramatic contrasts, once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters, and moments of pure connection.
Your adventure begins in Kigali, a city alive with murals, markets and world-class coffee culture. Share a welcome dinner with your Afrigay hosts and fellow travellers before exploring the city on foot, pausing for reflection at the powerful Kigali Genocide Memorial. From here, wind north through rolling green hills to Musanze for your first taste of Rwanda’s incredible wildlife: a playful trek to see endangered golden monkeys, and a visit to the striking Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
The highlight comes next—a heart-pounding trek into Volcanoes National Park to meet a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. After an hour of quiet awe, board a private speedboat to glide across sparkling Lake Kivu, watching fishing villages and terraced hills unfold as the sun sets. Continue south through emerald tea plantations to Nyungwe Forest, where an early morning chimpanzee trek and a thrilling canopy walk reveal the rainforest from every angle.
From mist to mirage, journey east to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah reserve. Here, dawn game drives and a scenic cruise on Lake Ihema bring you face-to-face with lions, elephants, hippos, crocodiles and a dazzling array of birdlife. Along the way, experience the proud traditions of the Ankole cattle herders and enjoy seamless luxury: boutique lodges, private transfers, expertly curated dining, and the warm, personalised service that defines every Afrigay journey.
Throughout the trip, every destination, activity and accommodation is vetted for genuine LGBTQ+ welcome. Our hosts and partners are trained in sensitivity and inclusivity, so you can relax completely and simply be yourself. Whether you’re travelling solo, with a partner, or with friends, this is a journey designed for connection—between travellers, with local communities, and with Rwanda’s extraordinary landscapes and wildlife.
Join Afrigay Travel on this once-in-a-lifetime LGBTQ+ group tour of Rwanda, and discover a country where resilience meets beauty, and every colour truly shines.
Day 1 — Kigali Arrivals, City Glow & Welcome Dinner
Glide through Kigali International with VIP assistance and meet your Afrigay hosts—smiles, cool towels, and a smooth transfer to your chic boutique hotel. Freshen up, then ease into Kigali’s rhythm with sunset drinks overlooking the hills. Tonight’s welcome dinner is intimate and stylish: Rwandan flavours with a modern twist, shared around a long table where names quickly become friends. We set intentions, swap stories, and outline the week—luxury, ease, and radical welcome.
Day 2 — Kigali on Foot, Memory & Renewal → Musanze
Wake to great coffee and a guided city walk through leafy boulevards, street art, markets and cafés—Kigali’s optimism is infectious. A considered visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial follows: a quiet, expertly guided space for reflection on loss, resilience and unity. After a light lunch, drive north through the “land of a thousand hills” to Musanze; the air cools, volcanoes appear, and your lodge welcomes you with a fireplace and soft throws. Pre-dinner chat with your guide on tomorrow’s treks; optional massage to unknot the flight from your shoulders.
Day 3 — Golden Monkeys, Bamboo Light & The Fossey Story
After an early breakfast, step into bamboo forest to meet the golden monkeys—playful, curious, and utterly charming. Expect bursts of copper tails and soft morning light; your ranger keeps the pace gentle and the photos fabulous. Back at the lodge, long lunch and downtime—pool, spa, or a book with a view. In the afternoon, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund: beautiful architecture, interactive exhibits, and a vivid look at science and community working together to protect Rwanda’s gentle giants. Cocktail hour under the volcanoes, dinner fireside.
Day 4 — Gorilla Trek, Heart-in-Mouth Moments & Lake Kivu Sprint
Briefing at park HQ, then into the forest with skilled trackers. The climb varies (we match groups carefully), but the reward is pure magic: a silverback watching over his family, youngsters tumbling, soft chest rumbles in the green hush. One extraordinary hour that feels outside of time. Return to the lodge to freshen up, then transfer to Gisenyi. A private speedboat whisks you down Lake Kivu—terraced hills, tiny islands, fishermen’s singing—arriving in Kibuye for golden-hour swims and cocktails. Dinner is fresh lake fish, crisp wines, stars overhead.
Day 5 — Tea Trails, Tastings & Nyungwe Arrival
Roll south along ridgelines to a tea estate where emerald rows ripple to the horizon. Wander with field workers, learn the art of plucking two leaves and a bud, then taste delicate brews straight from source. Continue to Nyungwe; check in to your forest-kissed lodge and sink into the slower, softer side of Rwanda. Optional sunset yoga, a botanical gin tasting, or simply balcony time with birdsong for company. Chef’s table dinner showcases local produce with a fine-dining flourish.
Day 6 — Chimp Encounter & Sky-High Canopy Walk
At dawn, enter ancient rainforest with expert trackers; calls echo before the forest parts and the troop appears—grooming, foraging, then a sudden whoop as they swing through the trees. It’s raw, thrilling, and beautifully observed. After brunch and a rest, take to the famous Canopy Walk: suspension bridges above a sea of green, butterflies drifting, monkeys flickering below. Back at the lodge, a restorative spa session awaits; dinner celebrates the day with easy laughter and shared photos.
Day 7 — From Mist to Savannah: Into Akagera
Trade rainforest for warm savannah as you travel east to Akagera. Check into your camp with views over shimmering wetlands, then roll out for an afternoon game drive. Giraffes step through acacias, elephant families dust-bathe, antelope stitch the plains; with luck, lions return your gaze from golden grass. Sundowners pop as the sky blushes into indigo. Dinner is lantern-lit and leisurely, with a stargazing moment that feels close to cinematic.
Day 8 — Dawn Predators, Lake Ihema Cruise & Northern Exit
Pre-sunrise start for prime predator time—lion, hyena, maybe the sleek hush of a leopard disappearing into shade. Coffee flasks and warm muffins keep spirits high as the savannah turns to liquid gold. Late morning, glide across Lake Ihema: hippos huff, crocs laze, fish eagles call overhead; elephants and buffalo often materialise at the reed-lined shore. Traverse north through broad lakes and papyrus wetlands before reaching your Kayonza lodge for a final celebratory dinner—speeches, toasts, hugs, and plans for the reunion trip.
Day 9 — Ankole Heritage, Kigali Spin & Departures
Meet a herdsman and his long-horned Ankole—the “cattle of kings”—and hear how tradition, art and daily life intertwine. Return to Kigali for last-minute artisan shopping (think woven baskets, contemporary prints, ethically made fashion) and a relaxed lunch. Then it’s seamless transfers to the airport and heartfelt goodbyes—camera rolls brimming, connections made, and a little piece of Rwanda tucked forever under your skin.
Rwanda
- Capital: Kigali. Major gateway: Kigali International (KGL).
- Language: Kinyarwanda (national), English, French and Swahili are official; English is widely used in tourism.
- Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF). ATMs common in Kigali. USD is accepted at many lodges for tips and some payments.
- VAT/Sales tax: 18% VAT is included in most prices; tourist VAT refunds are generally not available.
- Power: 230V / 50Hz. Plugs Type C & J. Bring a universal adaptor/power bank.
- Water: Tap water is not recommended for drinking—use sealed bottled water (provided at quality hotels/lodges).
- Driving: Right-hand driving. Roads are improving but can be slow; we use professional drivers.
- Time: UTC+2 year-round (no daylight saving).
- Health: No mandatory vaccines for most travellers. Yellow Fever certificate required if arriving from/through a Yellow Fever risk area. Malaria is present—speak to your clinic about prophylaxis; bring insect repellent.
- Local culture: Friendly, modest, community-minded. Dress respectfully, especially outside Kigali and at memorial sites. Always ask before photos. Plastic bags are banned—use reusable totes.
- Food & drink: Hearty, simple flavours—brochettes (grilled meats), isombe (cassava leaves), ugali, matoke, lake tilapia, excellent coffee & tea. Great veg options; bottled water only.
International flights
- Not included unless specifically stated.
- We’ll confirm exactly which airport(s) to use (typically KGL). Some itineraries connect onward regionally—consider an open-jaw ticket if starting/ending in different hubs.
- Please wait for our written tour confirmation before booking personal international flights.
- Typical booking windows: best economy pricing ~3–5 months out; business class ~5–8 months.
- Check baggage rules carefully—some regional tickets are hand-luggage only unless you add a checked bag.
- Want us to handle it? We can book and ticket your international flights (service fee applies), align schedules to the land itinerary, present fare options, and assist if airlines adjust timings.
Domestic / regional flights (within your itinerary)
- Where flights are required (e.g., regional links), they’re usually included unless otherwise stated. Rwanda has limited domestic air; many routes are scenic overland.
- Fares remain subject to change until ticketed due to airport/government taxes and exchange-rate movements; any increases/refunds will be communicated promptly.
Good to know: Names must exactly match passports; check in 3 hours before international and 90 minutes before regional departures.
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory—medical cover, trip cancellation/curtailment, lost property and any paid-for activities. Ensure your policy covers mountain/forest trekking (for primate experiences), medical evacuation, and any optional adventures.
Afrigay trips are hosted by Mike or a trusted Tour Leader, with licensed local specialist guides & park rangers at primate parks and cultural sites. Your leader handles logistics, check-ins, safety briefings, day pacing and the thoughtful touches that make a trip feel special.
Solo travellers are very welcome. You can:
- Room solo (single supplement applies), or
- Opt to share—we’ll try to pair you with a traveller of similar profile to avoid the supplement. If we can’t match you, we’ll offer the best single rate available.
Inclusions vary by itinerary and are shown on the What’s included tab. We aim to include a Welcome Dinner and a Farewell Dinner so the group connects at the start and celebrates at the end. Not all meals are included—we leave space to explore Kigali’s cafés and lodge cuisine. We happily cater for vegan/vegetarian, gluten-free and other needs—please advise in advance.
Only the activities listed as Included on your trip page are part of your package. Anything else is optional and not included.
If you’d like extras, we can arrange them at additional cost—before travel or on tour—subject to availability, season, weather and any minimum numbers. Optional add-ons are usually paid direct to suppliers; if we pre-book, they’ll appear on your invoice. Your insurance must cover any optional activity you choose.
Tipping is customary in tourism but always at your discretion. USD is commonly used; RWF also welcome.
- Restaurants/Bars: 10–12% if service isn’t included.
- Taxis/E-hailing: round up.
- Hotel porters: US$1–2 per bag (or RWF equivalent).
- Housekeeping: US$1–3 per room per night.
- Local guide/driver (day touring): US$10–20 per person per day (group size dependent).
- Primate trekking teams: we’ll brief you on the customary pooled tips for rangers/trackers/porters on the day.
- Tour Leader (multi-day Afrigay host): US$5–10 per person per day—aligned with common global norms.
- Passport & copies, visa/eVisa printout (many nationalities get visa on arrival; we’ll advise).
- Insurance details, bank cards, and some small-denomination USD/RWF for tips/markets.
- Adapters (Type C/J), power bank, unlocked phone for eSIM/SIM.
- Layers & modest clothing; a light waterproof is useful year-round.
- Sturdy walking shoes/boots (essential for forest trails), long trousers, and socks that cover ankles; insect repellentand sun protection.
- Personal meds, basic first-aid; speak to your clinic about malaria prophylaxis.
We’ll send a tour-specific packing cue sheet with your final documents.
We may make reasonable changes to the itinerary, accommodation, transport or sequencing when required by weather, safety, governmental advice, availability or operational factors. Equivalent or higher-quality services will be substituted where possible. Afrigay Travel and its partners operate within Rwandan law and industry standards (and applicable international standards); participation implies acceptance of our full Terms & Conditions issued at booking.
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