Embark on an unforgettable 12 Days Around Rwanda Wildlife Safari, a luxurious, all-encompassing journey through Rwanda’s most iconic landscapes and diverse ecosystems. From the rolling savannahs of Akagera National Park to the misty rainforests of Nyungwe and the awe-inspiring Volcanoes National Park, this tour is designed for high-end travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience with exceptional comfort. The itinerary is tailored to blend up-close animal encounters with cultural exploration, helicopter transfers (optional), fine dining, and stays in some of the country’s most luxurious lodges. Witness Rwanda’s rich biodiversity, from Big Five safaris and primate tracking to peaceful lakeside retreats, all wrapped in five-star hospitality.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be met by your private guide and chauffeured in a luxury vehicle to your five-star hotel. After check-in, relax with a spa treatment or opt for a light tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial and Inema Arts Center for a cultural introduction.
Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Kigali City Tour – Transfer to Akagera National Park
Enjoy a morning guided city tour featuring local markets, the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, and the vibrant Kimironko Market. After lunch, transfer by helicopter or luxury 4×4 to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park, where you’ll check into your exclusive safari lodge.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Mantis Akagera Game Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive in Akagera
Set out on a sunrise game drive in a private safari vehicle to track lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and a rich variety of antelopes. After a bush brunch or lunch at the lodge, enjoy downtime before an afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema, ideal for spotting hippos, crocodiles, and water birds.
Return to your lodge for a fire-lit dinner and storytelling under the stars.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Mantis Akagera Game Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Morning Game Drive – Transfer to Kigali
Enjoy a relaxed morning game drive or a birding walk before returning to Kigali by road or helicopter. Spend your afternoon at leisure or exploring Kigali’s contemporary art and design boutiques.
Evening dinner can be arranged at one of Kigali’s fine-dining establishments such as Fusion Restaurant at The Retreat.
Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, drive through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside to Nyungwe Forest National Park. En route, visit the ethnographic museum in Huye and the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza for a taste of Rwanda’s rich heritage.
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 and embark on a thrilling chimpanzee trekking expedition. Led by expert trackers, witness these energetic primates leaping through the treetops in their natural habitat.
Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge or taking part in optional tea plantation tours and spa treatments.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 7: Canopy Walk and Colobus Monkey Experience
Enjoy a forest canopy walk on a suspension bridge high above the forest floor—offering breathtaking views and a new perspective on the dense foliage below. Later, track the white-and-black Angolan colobus monkeys, often found in large troops.
Return to your lodge for a peaceful evening surrounded by nature.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 8: Transfer to Lake Kivu
After breakfast, transfer to the charming lakeside town of Karongi (Kibuye) along Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s great lakes. Check into your luxury resort, then spend your afternoon lounging by the water, taking a scenic boat ride to Napoleon Island, or enjoying a lakeside massage.
Accommodation: Cormoran Lodge, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Clevers Lake Kivu Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 9: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Depart Lake Kivu for Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. En route, enjoy the scenic drive through Musanze’s rolling hills. Check into a luxurious mountain lodge and enjoy the afternoon at leisure or visit the nearby Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for an authentic local experience.
Accommodation: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 10: Gorilla Trekking Experience
Wake early for your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure. After a briefing, hike into the dense rainforest led by skilled trackers to spend a magical hour observing a gorilla family in their natural home a deeply emotional and unforgettable experience.
Return to the lodge to unwind, reflect, and celebrate your achievement with a private sunset dinner.
Accommodation: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 11: Golden Monkey Tracking or Mount Bisoke Hike
Choose between an easy and exciting golden monkey trek, or for more active travelers, a guided Mount Bisoke hike a volcano ascent leading to a scenic crater lake at the summit.
After returning from your chosen activity, enjoy a farewell massage and celebratory dinner at your luxury lodge.
Accommodation: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 12: Return to Kigali & Departure
After a leisurely breakfast, transfer back to Kigali for any final shopping, museum visits, or relaxing before your departure flight. VIP assistance at Kigali International Airport ensures a smooth and stress-free send-off.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 12 Days Around Rwanda Wildlife Safari.
The 12 Days Around Rwanda Wildlife Safari cost includes;
- 1 Gorilla Permit per person.
- 1 Chimpanzee Permit per person.
- 1 Golden Monkey Permit per person.
- 1 Colobus Monkey Permit per person.
- Airport Transfers.
- Transportation in a 4×4 Safari Vehicle.
- Accommodation and Meals as per the itinerary.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Game Drive in Akagera.
- Boat Cruise of Lake Ihema.
- Tour Guide Allowances.
- Bottled Water in the Car.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
However, the tour cost excludes; International Air Fare, Visa Fees, Personal Medical and Travel Insurance, Personal Shopping Bills, Tips to Local Guides, Souvenirs and items not listed as included in the cost.