May 20-28, 2026

Conscious Travel for Women
Rwanda, Africa

9 Days. An Experience of a Lifetime

Step into a bucket-list journey that goes beyond sightseeing. Over nine days in Rwanda, you’ll trek through lush hills, encounter majestic silverback gorillas in their natural habitat, and engage in meaningful service with local communities through Kids Play International, supporting girls’ empowerment in sports 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, and moving to the Quiet Haven Hotel in Nyanza. From there you will end up at Five Volcanoes Lodge. The pricing is based on shared accommodation, however if you prefer a room to yourself, that is no problem! 

This journey is designed for women ready to show up fully. This trip includes:

  1. Pre-trip coaching- you’ll connect with fellow participants and explore what you hope to gain from this experience.
  2. During the trip- adventure, trekking, and cultural immersion will challenge your perspective, while intentional moments of rest and reflection create space for self-discovery, curiosity, and renewed vibrancy.
  3. Post-trip integration- After the journey, personalized post-trip integration provides support and guidance to help you apply what you’ve learned and 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.

Here’s what makes this trip unique:

  1. 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. 

  2. 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.

  3. Cultural Connection, Not Tourism
    You’ll connect with local communities in Rwanda to learn and experience their way of life— practicing humility, curiosity, and presence. By being in genuine relationship, you’ll see the impact of your choices, and the ways you show up in your own life.

  4. 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.

  5. Women-Centered Leadership Experience
    Designed specifically for women ready to step out of expectation and into presence, this trip fosters community, authenticity, and empowerment. You’ll explore your leadership, confidence, and inner guidance in a safe, supportive environment — without the performance, perfection, or pressure that life normally asks of you.

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Five Volcanoes Lodge
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Five Volcanoes Lodge
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Park Inn by Radisson

After leading 15+ expeditions I've witnessed beautiful transformations. Some 'souvenirs' you may come home with:

  • Greater clarity about what you truly want

  • Heightened self-awareness and the ability to tap into your feelings

  • Confidence in your choices, voice, and presence

  • Stronger communication skills

  • An authentic connection to yourself, your values, and your community

  • A lived experience of leadership, resilience, and curiosity

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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

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 - 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 Memorial became the starting point for peace and values education now built into Rwanda’s national schools curriculum. Strengthening community resilience against division is ripe for adaptation and use internationally
  • Lunch 
  • Free time to Relax and Visit Local Markets
  • Welcome dinner
  • Overnight in Kigali at the 
  • Overnight at the Park Inn by Radisson

DAY 4 - INTRO TO KIDS PLAY INTERNATIONAL

  • Breakfast and Checkout 
  • Depart Kigali to Gatagara
  • Arrive Kid's Play Rwanda Site 
  • Lunch
  • Play Fair Community Day Stations
  • Parent Education Session
  • Depart for Nyanza for Accommodation at Quiet Haven Hotel
  • Dinner

DAY 5 – OLYMPIC DAY EVENT

  • Breakfast
  • Visit Kings Palace and Gatagara Pottery
  • Set Up for Olympic Day
  • Lunch at KPI Guesthouse
  • Opening Ceremonies begin at 1:00 pm: Cultural Dance 
  • Olympic Day Move, Learn, Discover events 
  • Depart Gatagara to Nyanza  
  • Overnight at Quiet Haven Hotel
  • Dinner at Hotel 

DAY 6 – PARTNER SCHOOL VISIT  | LET’S PLAY FAIR PROGRAM (KPI YOUTH AGES 13-18 )

  • Breakfast
  • Depart Nyanza to Gatagara
  • Community project 
  • KPI Partner School Visit - Group will visit 1 of our Partner Schools and participate in an Activity, visit classrooms, learn about Rwandan Education system
  • Lunch 
  • Prepare for Let's Play Fair Program with KPI Players ages 13-18
  • Depart Gatagara to Nyanza  
  • Overnight at Quiet Haven Hotel in Nyanza
  • Dinner 

DAY 7 - DEPART FOR VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

  • Breakfast at Hotel
  • Depart for Volcanoes National Park
  • Lunch at Five Volcanoes Lodge 
  • Afternoon Visit Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Museum
  • Dinner 
  • Overnight at Five Volcanoes Lodge 

DAY 8 - GORILLA TREK

  • Breakfast 
  • Gorilla Trekking and if time allows visit a local market for shopping at Ubushobozi
  • Overnight at Five Volcanoes Lodge 

DAY 9 - GOLDEN MONKEYS & DEPART FOR HOME 

  • Breakfast
  • Visit endangered Golden monkeys that call the Volcanoes National Park home 
  • Head back to Kigali 
  • Depart for home in the evening

Details and Logistics:

  • Dates: May 20-28, 2026
  • Locations we will be visiting: Kigali, Gatagara, Nyanza, Volcanoes National Park
  • Duration: 9 days
  • 9 Spots Available 

Cost: $8900 per person

Cost Includes:

  • Pre-trip coaching calls
  • All Accommodations (3 star +) - Based on double occupancy (Individual accommodation by request)
  • In-Country Private Transportation
  • All Meals (except 1st night)
  • Expert Local Guided Experience 
  • Hands-On Volunteering
  • Cultural Immersion of Rwanda’s rich culture and traditions.
  • Olympic Day Community Celebration
  • Sponsorship of a KPI Player for a year
  • Community Project
  • Support, Guidance, and Coaching Conversations in country
  • Gorilla Trekking Permit and Golden Monkey's Permit
  • Post-trip personalized integration coaching calls

Not included:

  • Airfare: Flights to and from Rwanda.
  • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance (participants are encouraged to obtain their own insurance). - I have a contact for this upon request
  • Visa Fees: Fees for visas (if required).
  • Personal Expenses: Costs for personal items, souvenirs, and extra meals not specified in the itinerary.
  • 1 Meal: Arrival night dinner.
  • Vaccination Costs: Costs associated with required vaccinations (if applicable)
  • Additional Expenses: Any additional expenses incurred outside of the planned itinerary.

Deposits: 

  • $1000 to Reserve your Spot - Due upon sign up 
  • $3750 to Reserve Gorrilla Trekking and is Non-refundable (Due Jan 15th, 2026)
  • $4,150 or remaining balance due by April 1st 2026

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 health, comfort, and security in mind. My goal is to ensure you can fully enjoy the trip, focus on the experience, and return home with your best memories, confident that you were well cared for throughout your journey. I am happy to answer any questions that you have. 

Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa, renowned for its low crime rates and welcoming atmosphere. Kigali, the capital city, is known for its cleanliness, organised infrastructure, and friendly locals. The government prioritises security, maintaining a visible police presence and well-kept public spaces. Visitors can comfortably explore popular destinations like the Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu. As with any travel, it’s wise to take basic precautions, such as safeguarding personal belongings, but overall, Rwanda’s reputation as a safe and peaceful destination is well-deserved.

What airport do I fly into?

We fly into Kigali International Airport (KGL).

Where is Rwanda?

Rwanda is in central east Africa, bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Do I need a passport/visa?

If you are a U.K. or U.S.A. citizen you will need a visa for Rwanda, and importantly for Rwanda the visa can be acquired on arrival to the Kigali airport.  If you are not a U.K. or U.S.A. citizen, please consult the Rwanda consulate or embassy nearest you for visa requirements to enter Rwanda.

What type of vaccinations do I need?

It is recommended to make an appointment with your physician or a health care provider before leaving on any international trip.

-Anti-malarial drugs required / recommended (Malerone or Doxyclycline)

-Yellow Fever (optional)

-Cipro prescription is good to have to help prevent GI maladies while on the trip.

-Make sure you have an updated MMR (Measles/mumps/rubella), DPT (Diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus) and poliovirus vaccine.

-Hepatitis A and B (optional)

-Typhoid (optional)

Refer to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website for the most updated list of required and recommended vaccinations.

What is the currency and current exchange rate?

The currency of Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc. IMPORTANT: Bring US dollars that are 2009 or NEWER. Rwanda will not exchange or give you a very poor exchange rate for old bills. It is best to bring mainly $50’s and $100’s, $20’s are typically okay as well. The current exchange rate can be found at http://www.xe.com/currency/rwf-rwandan-franc.

Do I need travel insurance?

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance. I have resources for you upon request. 

What is the weather like?

Rwanda is at a higher elevation than most African countries (1000m – 4500m) so thankfully the weather remains slightly cooler. You will typically need a light jacket in the morning and evening. There are two dry seasons and two wet seasons. We typically travel during the dry season!

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Kids Play International Community in Nyanza
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Kids Play International Community in Nyanza

Ready to Join? Contact Courtney