8 Day Best of Rwanda Safari
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 8 Day Best of Rwanda Safari, a journey through the heart of one of Africa’s most breathtaking destinations. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda offers an unparalleled blend of lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From awe-inspiring gorilla treks to tranquil boat rides across pristine lakes, this safari promises to leave you with lasting memories.
Over the course of 8 days, you’ll explore Rwanda’s most iconic national parks, including Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, and Lake Kivu. Whether you’re trekking to encounter majestic mountain gorillas, spotting wildlife on game drives, or simply relaxing by the shores of Lake Kivu, this safari offers the perfect balance of adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences.
-
8 Days/ 7 Nights
-
Rwanda
-
Guided, Private Safari
-
Airport TransfersCar hireServices of an English-speaking guideRefreshments like waterAll accommodation & MealsAll activitiesAll Taxes /VATA professional driver /guideFuelGorilla permitChimpanzee permitDrinking water
-
Tips and gratuitiesAll items of personal natureInternational flightsAlcoholic drinks
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Akagera National Park
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and embark on a scenic drive (approximately 2.5 hours) to Akagera National Park. On your way to the park, enjoy the rolling hills of Rwanda and watch the landscape change as you approach the savannah region.
After settling into your lodge, enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ihema, where you may spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife such as the African fish eagle. As the sun sets over the lake, you’ll feel the quiet serenity of Akagera.
In the afternoon, go on a game drive through the park to spot wildlife like giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and elephants. The park’s diverse landscapes provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Accommodation Options:
-
Luxury: Akagera Game Lodge – With breathtaking views of Lake Ihema, this lodge is the perfect place to unwind.
-
Mid-range: Ruzizi Tented Lodge – A charming eco-lodge offering comfort and scenic views by the lake.
-
Budget: Akagera Rhino Lodge – A cozy and affordable option near the park entrance.
Meal: Dinner
Day 2: Full Day Game Drive in Akagera & Return to Kigali
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
Day 3: City Tour of Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
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
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking & Visit to Iby’iwachu Cultural Village
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
Day 5: Golden Monkey Trekking & Transfer to Lake Kivu
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
Day 6: Activities Around Lake Kivu & Transfer to Nyungwe Forest
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
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk
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
Day 8: Trek Other Primates, Visit Tea Factory & Return to Kigali
On your final day, you’ll take a trek to see other primates like the L’Hoest’s monkeys and Angola colobus in Nyungwe Forest. Afterward, you’ll visit a local tea factory to see how Rwanda’s famous tea is harvested and processed. Finally, you’ll begin your drive back to Kigali, where your safari adventure ends.
Meal: Breakfast & Lunch
Request a Quote
Suggested Rwanda Safari Ideas
The tours featured throughout our website are intended to give you ideas for what’s possible when you travel with us. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created individually by one of our specialists to match your tastes and budget.