8 Day Best of Rwanda Safari

After breakfast, you’ll head out for a morning game drive through Akagera. The park is known for its varied wildlife, and the morning is the best time to see animals like waterbucks, buffaloes, and impalas as they graze peacefully in the early morning light.

Later, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park before continuing your afternoon game drive, where you may encounter the park’s elusive predators, including lions and leopards, or observe large herds of elephants along the savannah.

After your adventure, you’ll transfer back to Kigali for a relaxed evening. You can enjoy a light dinner or explore the vibrant city before heading to your hotel.

Accommodation in Kigali:

• Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel – A luxurious hotel offering modern amenities and a central location.

• Mid-range: The Manor Hotel – Comfortable and conveniently located, with great service.

• Budget: The 2000 Hotel – A budget-friendly, well-located hotel in the heart of Kigali.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, you will start the day with a guided city tour of Kigali. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you’ll learn about the history and impact of the 1994 genocide, followed by visits to other significant landmarks such as the Nyamata Church and Presidential Palace Museum.

After lunch, transfer to Volcanoes National Park (approximately 2.5 hours drive) for an unforgettable wildlife experience surrounded by the towering volcanoes. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Accommodation near Volcanoes National Park:

• Luxury: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge – An upscale lodge offering stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes.

• Mid-range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge – Comfortably nestled in nature, providing easy access to trekking starting points.

• Budget: Muhavura Lodge – A cozy lodge that offers comfort and excellent views of the surrounding mountains.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast at your lodge, you’ll meet your guide and head to the park headquarters for a briefing on the rules and guidelines for gorilla trekking. You’ll also learn which family of gorillas you’ll be trekking to, as each group is tracked separately.

Once the briefing is complete, you’ll start your trek through the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park in search of your assigned gorilla family. The trek could last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on where the gorillas are located. When you finally encounter them, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.

After your trek, visit Iby’iwachu Cultural Village. Here, you’ll be immersed in Rwanda’s rich cultural traditions, watching traditional dances, listening to storytelling, and even participating in activities like drumming or weaving. It’s a wonderful way to reflect on the day’s adventure and learn more about Rwanda’s heritage.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Virunga Lodge – With panoramic views of the volcanoes and nearby lakes, it’s the ideal place to unwind after your gorilla trek.

• Mid-range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge – Close to the park entrance and comfortable for your post-trek relaxation.

• Budget: Muhavura Lodge – A relaxed, budget-friendly option near Volcanoes National Park.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, you’ll head out for golden monkey trekking. These playful monkeys are fun to watch as they leap through the bamboo trees in the park. After your golden monkey encounter, enjoy a scenic lunch, then transfer to Lake Kivu, where the serene beauty of the lake awaits you.

The drive will take you through lush hills and small villages, and once you reach Kibuye, a town nestled on the shores of Lake Kivu, you’ll be greeted by stunning views. After check-in at your accommodation, relax and enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful location.

Accommodation at Lake Kivu:

• Luxury: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel – A peaceful retreat with panoramic views of the lake, perfect for a relaxing stay.

• Mid-range: Kivu Marina Bay – A comfortable hotel offering easy access to the lake and a relaxed atmosphere.

• Budget: Bethanie Hotel – An affordable option with lovely views of the lake.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, you will spend the morning indulging in optional activities such as a boat ride on Lake Kivu to explore the islands or visit the Ndaba Falls for some light hiking. For those seeking relaxation, you can simply take in the tranquil beauty of the lake from your lodge. After lunch, you’ll drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park (approximately 4 hours), which is known for its biodiversity, particularly its primates.

Accommodation in Nyungwe Forest:

• Luxury: Nyungwe Forest Lodge – A luxurious retreat with forest views and exceptional service.

• Mid-range: Top Hill View Hotel – Perfect for those looking for comfort and scenic surroundings.

• Budget: Gisakura Lodge – Cozy and affordable, located near the park entrance for easy access to the trails.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, you’ll begin your day with a thrilling chimpanzee trek in Nyungwe Forest, home to one of Africa’s largest groups of chimpanzees. Trek through the dense forest as you search for these fascinating primates. Once found, you’ll spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat.

After lunch, head to the Canopy Walk, a thrilling experience suspended high in the forest, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the rainforest below and might even spot some forest wildlife.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Nyungwe Forest Lodge – Offering exceptional luxury and proximity to the park’s highlights.

• Mid-range: Top Hill View Hotel – Providing comfort with breathtaking views of the forest.

• Budget: Gisakura Lodge – A cozy, budget-friendly option near the park.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner