Rwanda, Africa
12 Days. An Experience of a Lifetime.
International Experiences
A bucket-list journey that goes beyond sightseeing.
Over 12 days in Rwanda, you'll trek through lush hills, encounter majestic silverback gorillas in their natural habitat, go on safari, and engage in meaningful service through Kids Play International, where sport is used to empower girls and educate boys in Rwanda for over 15 years. This isn't just volunteering — it's about real connection, learning from the people you meet, and truly experiencing a culture from the inside.
You will be staying at safe and comfortable accommodations along your journey — starting with the Park Inn by Radisson, moving to the Quiet Haven Hotel in Nyanza, then Five Volcanoes Lodge, and ending at Ruzizi Game Lodge and Karenge Bush Camp. Pricing is based on shared accommodation; if you prefer a room to yourself, that is no problem!
This journey is designed for individuals ready to step out of their comfort zone and willing to delve into a new culture. This trip includes:
- 1.Pre-trip introduction — connect with fellow participants, explore what you hope to gain, and get your questions answered.
- 2.During the trip — adventure, trekking, and cultural immersion challenge your perspective, while intentional rest and reflection create space for self-discovery, curiosity, and renewed vibrancy.
- 3.Post-trip integration — we connect again on how you want to show up fully in your life and apply what you've learned to step fully into the life you want.
This isn't just travel. It's a journey that inspires personal growth, meaningful connection, and inner strength — a transformative travel experience designed to blend conscious leadership, cultural immersion, service, adventure, and reflection.
Here's what makes this trip unique:
01
Full-Body Yes Approach
This isn't just about seeing Rwanda — it's about feeling it. Every step, every encounter, every reflection is designed to engage your mind, body, and heart.
02
Intentional Integration of Growth Edge Work
I structure the journey to stretch your edges safely: stepping into discomfort, noticing your habitual patterns, and choosing conscious responses. By practicing leadership in real situations — from trekking the hills to immersive service projects — you learn not just about the world, but about yourself.
03
Cultural Connection, Not Tourism
You'll engage in a meaningful service project, creating a lasting impact in Kids Play's local community and learn and experience their way of life. By being in genuine relationship with others, you'll see the impact of your choices, and the ways you show up in your own life.
04
Reflection and Integration Built In
Transformation only sticks when there's space to process it. Each part of the trip includes intentional rest, reflection, and journaling — and post-trip integration ensures the lessons come home with you.
Kids Play International
I am excited to be partnering with Kids Play International, a non-profit that leverages the power of sport and the Olympic values in a safe space so girls and boys can positively challenge and shift harmful gender, social and cultural norms. KPI believes that young people are the long-term solution to changing deep-rooted beliefs, and building a healthy society where each gender's contribution is highly valued.
After leading 15+ expeditions I've witnessed beautiful transformations. Some 'souvenirs' you may come home with:
Led By Courtney Lewallen
I've spent over a decade leading transformational journeys — from expeditions across the globe to conscious leadership programs for women and organizations. I bring a unique blend of experiential adventure, leadership coaching, and deep cultural immersion to every trip. My approach isn't about doing it all for you — it's about holding the space so you can step fully into yourself, meet your edges with curiosity and courage, and return home stronger, clearer, and more aligned than ever.
Itinerary:
Day 1
Depart, USA
- Depart from the USA.
Day 2
Arrive Kigali, Rwanda
- Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
- Transfer from airport and overnight in Kigali at the Park Inn by Radisson
- Check into accommodation to rest/relax
- Dinner on your own
Day 3
Introduction and Local Experiences
- Breakfast included at Radisson
- We'll take the day to settle in, get to know each other and experience some of the local areas around Kigali.
- Meaningful conversation around conscious living and how to make the most out of this experience.
Day 4
Rwandan History
- Breakfast included at Radisson (or similar)
- Introduction and welcome to Rwanda by KPI staff and Safeguarding Meeting
- Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and Museum — opened in 2004, the starting point for peace and values education now built into Rwanda's national schools curriculum
- Lunch
- Free time to relax and visit local markets
- Welcome dinner
- Overnight in Kigali at the Park Inn by Radisson
Day 5
Intro to Kids Play International
- Breakfast and checkout
- Depart Kigali to Gatagara
- Arrive Kid's Play Rwanda Site
- Lunch at KPI Guesthouse
- Service Project
- Play Fair Community Day Stations
- Parent Education Session
- Depart for Nyanza for accommodation at Quiet Haven Hotel
- Dinner
Day 6
Kids Play Event
- Breakfast
- Visit King's Palace and Gatagara Pottery
- Lunch at KPI Guesthouse
- Opening Ceremonies begin at 1:00 pm: Cultural Dance
- Kids Play events
- Depart Gatagara to Nyanza
- Dinner
- Overnight at Quiet Haven Hotel
Day 7
Wrap Up KPI & Depart for Volcanoes National Park
- Breakfast
- Depart Nyanza to Gatagara
- Community project
- Lunch at KPI Guesthouse
- Depart for Volcanoes National Park
- Overnight at Five Volcanoes Lodge
Day 8
Volcanoes National Park — Gorilla Trek
- Breakfast
- Gorilla Trekking
- Lunch
- Afternoon visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Museum and the Women's Co-op
- Dinner
- Overnight at Five Volcanoes Lodge
Day 9
Volcanoes National Park — Golden Monkeys & Depart for Kigali
- Breakfast
- Visit endangered Golden monkeys that call Volcanoes National Park home
- Head back to Kigali
Day 10
Akagera National Park
- Breakfast
- Head to Akagera National Park
- Morning game drive in the south part of the park
- Check in to Ruzizi Lodge
- Afternoon boat ride on Lake Ihema to see crocodiles and hippos
- Dinner at the lodge
- Overnight at Ruzizi
Day 11
Akagera National Park
- Breakfast at the lodge
- Morning game drive driving to the north
- Lunch along the way
- Afternoon game drive in the north
- Check in to Karenge Bush Camp
- Dinner at the camp
- Overnight at Karenge
Day 12
Akagera National Park — Depart
- Experience the animals before anyone else in the park as you gaze out onto the open plains
- Breakfast at the camp
- Relaxing morning of reflection before heading back to Kigali
- Depart for home in the evening
Details and Logistics
Dates
June 8–19, 2027
Locations
Kigali, Gatagara, Nyanza, Volcanoes NP, Akagera NP
Duration
12 days
Cost: $12,500
Cost Includes:
- Pre-trip introduction calls
- All Accommodations (3 star +) — based on double occupancy (individual by request)
- In-Country Private Transportation
- All Meals (except 1st night arrival)
- Expert Local Guided Experience
- Hands-On Volunteering
- Cultural Immersion of Rwanda's rich culture and traditions
- Engagement in a Kids Play Program and Play Fair Community Day Celebration
- Sponsorship of a Kids Play Player for a year
- Community Project
- Support, Guidance, and Coaching Conversations in country
- Gorilla Trekking Permit and Golden Monkey's Permit
- Akagera National Park fees and all game drives
- Post-trip integration call
Not Included:
- Airfare: Flights to and from Rwanda
- Travel Insurance (participants are required to obtain their own)
- Visa Fees: $50 upon arrival in country (if required)
- Personal Expenses: souvenirs, extra transport, extra meals not specified
- 1 Meal: Arrival night dinner
- Vaccination Costs (if applicable)
- Additional Expenses incurred outside the planned itinerary
- Tips
Deposits:
- $750 to hold spot (Non-refundable)
- $1500 to Reserve Gorilla Trekking — Due upon sign up (Non-refundable)
Frequently Asked Questions
How safe is Rwanda?
Your safety and well-being are my top priorities. While no travel experience can come with a 100% guarantee, I am diligent in selecting safe, well-established providers for all travel, excursions, and activities. Every decision — from accommodations to guides to logistics — is made with your safety and experience in mind.
Leave with more than unforgettable memories. Leave with a different perspective.
Have Questions? Contact CourtneyBe the First to Know