Prepare to experience the diverse beauty of Rwanda in unparalleled style on this 12 Days Around Rwanda Wildlife Safari Tour around the Land of a Thousand Hills. From rolling savannahs and misty rainforests to volcanic highlands and shimmering lakes, Rwanda offers breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable wildlife encounters. This all-encompassing itinerary is carefully curated for those who seek adventure without compromising comfort. You’ll stay at premium lodges and boutique retreats, enjoy private guided experiences, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural and natural heritage of Rwanda, all while enjoying warm Rwandan hospitality and world-class service.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali.
Your journey begins in Kigali, the modern and culturally rich capital of Rwanda. Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, a private driver and safari guide will greet you and escort you to your luxury hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a private city tour featuring the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Camp Kigali, and the vibrant Kimironko Market. In the evening, savor a welcome dinner at one of Kigali’s top gourmet restaurants.
Accommodation: Kigali Marriott Hotel, Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park.
After a gourmet breakfast, depart on a private 2.5-hour drive to Akagera National Park, a scenic route through eastern Rwanda’s undulating hills. Upon arrival, check into your luxury lodge and enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading out for an afternoon game drive. The park is teeming with wildlife including lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, and antelope. End your day with sunset drinks overlooking Lake Ihema and a gourmet dinner under the stars.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Karenge Bush Camp.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Akagera National Park.
Today is a full-day immersion in Akagera’s breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy a private game drive with picnic lunch, guided by an expert who’ll track elusive species like leopards and hyenas while showcasing the park’s lakes, savannah, and woodland. For birders, Akagera is a paradise with over 500 species. Return to your lodge for a tranquil evening with spa treatments or lakeside cocktails.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Karenge Bush Camp.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Morning Boat Cruise – Return to Kigali
Begin your day with a luxurious boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you’ll get up close to hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. After brunch, drive back to Kigali with optional stops at local communities or artisan cooperatives. Arrive in Kigali by late afternoon and enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Depart Kigali after breakfast for a scenic drive southwest to Nyungwe Forest National Park, passing through lush tea plantations and small villages. Along the way, stop at the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza and National Ethnographic Museum in Huye for a cultural introduction to Rwanda’s royal and colonial past. Arrive at your lodge nestled in the forest, and enjoy an evening of relaxation and fine dining.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest.
Rise early for a chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe’s ancient rainforest. Guided by expert trackers, you’ll encounter these charismatic primates in their natural habitat. The forest is alive with the sounds of nature and offers chances to spot colobus monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys, and rare birds. After the trek, unwind at your lodge or take an optional guided forest walk or tea plantation tour.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 7: Nyungwe Canopy Walk Experience
Today you’ll experience the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, an exhilarating bridge suspended above the forest canopy offering breathtaking views of the treetops and wildlife below. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure activities like a spa treatment, tea tasting, or birdwatching excursions from your lodge. End your day with a gourmet dinner paired with South African wines.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 8: Transfer to Lake Kivu.
Depart Nyungwe after breakfast and drive north along the scenic Congo Nile Trail to Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake. Upon arrival in the lakeside town of Kibuye, enjoy a relaxing afternoon with options for kayaking, sunset boat rides, or simply soaking in the views. The evening is perfect for a lakeside dinner by candlelight.
Accommodation: Cormoran Lodge, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Clevers Lake Kivu Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 9: Lake Kivu to Volcanoes National Park.
After a leisurely breakfast by the lake, travel northeast to Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas. Check into your luxury lodge nestled in the shadow of the Virunga Volcanoes. Spend the afternoon relaxing or take a guided village walk or visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund exhibit.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 10: Gorilla Trekking Experience.
This is the crown jewel of your Rwandan adventure. Rise early and transfer to the park headquarters for your gorilla trekking briefing. With your private guide, hike through the misty forests to observe a habituated gorilla family in the wild. The one-hour encounter is deeply emotional and unforgettable. Return to your lodge for a well-earned massage and celebratory dinner.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 11: Golden Monkey Trekking – Relaxation
Embark on a golden monkey trek in the morning, a gentler and shorter hike through bamboo forests. These playful primates offer excellent photography opportunities. In the afternoon, you may opt for a visit to a local coffee plantation, a guided nature walk, or simply relax in your luxury suite and take in the view.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 12: Return to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, bid farewell to the highlands and begin your drive back to Kigali (approx. 2.5 hours). Time permitting, visit Nyamirambo Women’s Center or enjoy a farewell lunch at Heaven Restaurant. Your driver will transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your international departure, concluding your unforgettable journey through Rwanda.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 12 Days Around Rwanda Wildlife Safari Tour.
The 12 Days Around Rwanda Wildlife Safari Tour cost includes;
- 1 Gorilla Permit per person.
- 1 Chimpanzee Permit per person.
- 1 Golden Monkey Permit per person.
- Ground Transportation in a 4×4 Safari Vehicle.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Game Drive in Akagera.
- Accommodation and Meals as per the itinerary.
- Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
- Bottled water in the car.
- Tour Guide allowances.
However, the tour cost excludes; International Air Fare, Visa Fees, personal travel and medical insurance, tips to local guides, souvenirs, personal shopping bills and items not listed as included in the cost.