Icyayi Songa Lodge

Icyayi Songa Lodge is located in Nyamasheke District, approximately 4-5 hours by road from Kigali International Airport (190 km). Alternatively, domestic charter flights from Kigali International Airport to Kamembe Airstrip take approximately 55 minutes, followed by a short ground transfer to the lodge. The lodge sits just 20 minutes from the Nyungwe Park tracking office.

Chimpanzee trekking is possible year-round at Icyayi Songa Lodge; however, the dry seasons (June-October and January-February) offer the best trekking conditions. During these months, forest trails are more navigable, vegetation is less dense, and trekking success rates improve. December-January and June-August combine comfortable weather with good wildlife viewing opportunities.

Icyayi Songa Lodge charges $2,000 USD per luxury suite per night during low season (February 16 – May 31, November 1 – December 14) and $2,400 USD per night during high season (June 1 – October 31, December 15 – January 5). Rates are per room and include full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner), selected house wines and local beers, soft drinks, complimentary laundry, and government taxes. Chimpanzee trekking permits ($75 USD) and park entry fees are additional.

Yes, Icyayi Songa Lodge is family-friendly. The property offers a Family Luxury Villa with 2 bedrooms and shared living spaces, perfect for families. Children aged 3 and under stay free; children 12 and under may book rollaway beds. Nanny services are available at $100 USD per day if needed. The lodge arranges family-appropriate activities including guided forest walks, tea plantation experiences, and bird watching suitable for older children.

Icyayi Songa Lodge is located within Nyungwe Forest National Park, which protects 13 primate species, including the resident chimpanzee population (the primary trekking focus). The forest also contains 85 mammal species, over 300 bird species (including 30 Albertine Rift endemic species), 1,068 plant species, 32 amphibian species, and 38 reptile species. This is not a Big Five destination but rather a primate and bird-watching paradise.

Beyond chimpanzee trekking, Icyayi Songa Lodge offers the Nyungwe Canopy Walkway (one of Africa's longest zipline experiences), guided forest walks with expert naturalists, bird watching expeditions targeting Albertine Rift endemic species, night forest drives, cycling tours through tea plantations, archery, and a signature "crop to cup" tea experience where guests participate in tea leaf picking and processing.

Yes, Icyayi Songa Lodge provides complimentary WiFi throughout the property and mobile network coverage. All rooms are equipped with WiFi access, allowing guests to stay connected while enjoying their forest retreat.

Icyayi Songa Lodge maintains 24-hour security, generator backup power, solar power systems, and hot water facilities. All rooms include mosquito nets for malaria prevention. The lodge operates within Nyungwe Forest National Park's established safety protocols. Guests should consult their healthcare provider regarding malaria prophylaxis and ensure travel insurance covers their destination before arrival.

Icyayi Songa Lodge is the newest and most luxurious accommodation option in the Nyungwe area, featuring 166 m² suites with private fireplaces, full-board meals, and spa facilities. It combines high-end comfort with prime positioning for chimpanzee trekking (20 minutes from tracking office). Alternative options like Gisovu and Uwinka guest houses offer budget-friendly accommodation ($96-$252 per night) but with fewer amenities and less spacious accommodations.

To book Icyayi Songa Lodge, contact the property directly at +250-780-870-670 or visit https://www.nyungweforestnationalpark.org/icyayi-songa-lodge. You can also compare rates, read verified traveler reviews, and book through SafariFind, which connects you with verified safari operators offering the best rates and transparent booking terms for Icyayi Songa Lodge and other Nyungwe Forest accommodations.