Indulge in the ultimate luxury experience with the 12 Days Tour Exploring Rwanda by Helicopter, where every aspect of your journey is designed for comfort, exclusivity, and adventure. Glide across the stunning landscapes of Rwanda, from its iconic volcanoes to lush rainforests, as you enjoy seamless helicopter transfers between the country’s most famous national parks and luxury accommodations. This itinerary combines exceptional wildlife experiences, including gorilla trekking and safari game drives, with serene moments of relaxation at Rwanda’s most exquisite lodges. With personalized service, first-class travel, and world-class amenities, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where a private concierge will greet you for VIP treatment. You’ll be whisked through customs before being transferred to your luxurious accommodation, either The Retreat by Heaven, a boutique hotel offering tranquility and sophistication, or Kigali Serena Hotel, renowned for its refined elegance, expansive gardens, and first-class service. Spend the afternoon with a private guided tour of the city, exploring the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local markets. In the evening, savor a gourmet dinner at your hotel, prepared using the freshest local ingredients.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel.
Meals: (Dinner).
Day 2: Helicopter Transfer to Akagera National Park
After a leisurely breakfast, board your private helicopter for a scenic flight to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier Big Five safari destination. Upon arrival, check into Magashi Camp, an ultra-luxury tented camp overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga, or Ruzizi Tented Lodge, a chic and intimate lodge situated by the lake’s shores. After lunch, enjoy a private game drive with your expert guide in search of Africa’s iconic wildlife, including lions, elephants, and giraffes. Return to the lodge for sunset cocktails and a delicious dinner served in the open air.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Full-Day Safari Adventure – Boat Safari and Night Game Drive
Start the day with an early morning game drive in Akagera, offering you the chance to witness the park’s wildlife at its most active. Return to your lodge for a sumptuous brunch, followed by a private boat safari along Lake Rwanyakazinga. Watch hippos basking in the sun and enjoy a variety of bird species along the way. In the evening, embark on a thrilling night game drive, where you’ll observe nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat. End your day with a bespoke bush dinner under the stars, where the wilderness surrounds you in all its beauty.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Helicopter Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, take a scenic helicopter transfer to Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, you’ll check into Singita Kwitonda Lodge, a luxurious eco-lodge offering private villas with breathtaking views of the volcanoes, or One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, known for its lavish accommodations and stunning views of the forest. Spend the afternoon at leisure: relax by your private plunge pool, enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment, or explore the lodge’s scenic surroundings. Dinner will be an unforgettable fine dining experience featuring Rwanda’s freshest local ingredients.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Today, you’ll embark on the most anticipated part of your journey: the gorilla trekking experience. After an early breakfast, head to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing before trekking through the lush rainforest to find a group of mountain gorillas. Spend an hour with these majestic creatures, observing them in their natural environment. Return to your lodge for a relaxing afternoon, perhaps enjoying a spa treatment or simply unwinding by the pool. In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner with locally inspired dishes and a carefully curated wine pairing.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: Golden Monkey Trekking – Cultural Visit
In the morning, you may opt for a golden monkey trekking adventure, where you’ll track these playful primates through the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing day at your lodge with optional activities, including private yoga sessions or a scenic helicopter flight over the park’s volcanic peaks. In the afternoon, take a cultural tour to a nearby village where you can engage with local communities and learn about Rwanda’s rich traditions. Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and sunset cocktails.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 7: Helicopter Transfer to Lake Kivu
Enjoy breakfast before taking a scenic helicopter transfer to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes. Upon arrival, check into either Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, a contemporary and luxurious lakeside retreat with panoramic views, or the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, an elegant oasis offering private beaches and wellness facilities. After checking in, spend the afternoon relaxing by the lake or exploring the area on a private boat cruise. Enjoy an exquisite dinner at your hotel, accompanied by the lake’s stunning sunset.
Accommodation: Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 8: Helicopter Transfer to Nyungwe Forest
After breakfast, embark on a scenic helicopter transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of the best-preserved rainforests in Africa. Upon arrival, check into Nyungwe House, an eco-friendly luxury lodge offering world-class service and spectacular views, or the One&Only Nyungwe House, a luxurious retreat amidst the forest’s natural beauty. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided nature walk through the rainforest, exploring its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. Return to the lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening.
Accommodation: Nyungwe House, One&Only Nyungwe House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 9: Chimpanzee Trekking – Return to Kigali
After breakfast, enjoy a chimpanzee trekking experience in the rainforest, where you’ll get up close with Rwanda’s chimpanzee population. This thrilling adventure is followed by a guided tour of the park, where you’ll observe other primates and wildlife. After your trek, enjoy lunch at your lodge before taking your private helicopter transfer back to Kigali. Upon arrival, check into your chosen hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in the capital city, where you can explore Kigali’s vibrant food scene or visit the local markets.
Accommodation: Nyungwe House, One&Only Nyungwe House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 10: Kigali City Tour and Art Exploration
Spend the day exploring Rwanda’s capital with a private guide. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a poignant and educational experience, then take in the local art scene with visits to galleries such as the Inema Arts Center and Kigali Center for Photography. Enjoy lunch at one of the city’s top fine dining spots, and spend the afternoon at leisure, either relaxing or shopping for souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy your farewell dinner at a top restaurant, where you’ll be treated to a curated tasting menu showcasing the best of Rwandan cuisine.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 11: Helicopter Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Return Visit for Scenic Views
For your final day in Rwanda, take a private helicopter tour over Volcanoes National Park, offering stunning aerial views of the park’s volcanic peaks and verdant forests. This scenic flight gives you a unique perspective of the area you’ve previously explored on foot. Upon your return, check into your lodge for a farewell lunch before enjoying your final moments in Rwanda, perhaps with a spa treatment or a private guided walk through the forest.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 12: Departure
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure. Your concierge will ensure smooth airport procedures and assist you with any last-minute needs before you board your flight back home, leaving Rwanda with memories of a lifetime.
End of the 12 Days Tour Exploring Rwanda by Helicopter.
The 12 Days Tour Exploring Rwanda by Helicopter cots includes;
- 1 Gorilla Trekking Permit per person.
- 1 Golden Monkey Permit per person.
- 1 Chimpanzee Permit per person.
- Airport Transfers.
- Helicopter transfers between destinations.
- Accommodation at luxury lodges and hotels.
- All meals as indicated.
- Private game drives and boat safaris in Akagera.
- Private English-speaking professional guide.
- All park entry fees and conservation fees
- Bottled water in the car.
However, the tour cost excludes; International flights, Visa fees, Premium alcoholic beverages not included in lodge offerings, optional activities not specified in itinerary, personal travel and medical insurance, tips to local guides, shopping, souvenirs, and personal expenses.