This tour is about visiting orphaned chimpanzees in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The sanctuary is located just a few kilometers from Kahuzi-Biega National Park and Bukavu Town.
It currently protects over 80 chimpanzees, 106 different species of monkeys, tortoises, parrots, and other primates. During the visit, you will spend the whole day taking part in daily activities such as feeding the animals, helping treat sick primates, and much more.
The tour starts and ends in Kigali, Rwanda, a place known as the land of a thousand hills. The drive offers great views along the way.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Bukavu Town, D.R. Congo, from Kigali, Rwanda
You will be picked up from the agreed place in Kigali city, either your hotel or Kigali International Airport. After a short briefing by an expert safari guide about the tour, you will travel to Bukavu town in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The journey, including border crossing, will take about 8 hours. You will see beautiful hills, green forests, clean towns, friendly people, farmlands, and more along the way. In the evening, you will arrive at your hotel and rest. This ends your first day.
Day 2: Visit Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary (Full Day)
After breakfast, you will drive for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary. On arrival, an expert guide will give you a briefing about the sanctuary, including rules to follow, its history, management, and challenges.
You will walk along different trails while learning about the primates in the sanctuary. You will take part in feeding and caring for the chimpanzees. If you wish, you can make a donation to help support the sanctuary’s work feeding and caring for the animals. After the visit, you will return to your hotel for the night.
Day 3: Return to Kigali and Depart
After breakfast, depending on your plans, you will travel back to Kigali for your flight home or your next destination. The tour ends with a drop-off at the agreed place in Kigali city.
