Embark on a transformative journey across Rwanda’s pristine national parks, shimmering lakes, and misty forests in this 14 Days Classic Wildlife Safari Adventure in Rwanda. Tailored for discerning travelers seeking immersive encounters with nature’s most fascinating creatures, this luxury safari combines the thrill of big game drives, the wonder of primate trekking, the serenity of Lake Kivu, and the beauty of Rwanda’s diverse cultural heritage. Each day blends exciting activities with high-end comforts, personal service, and carefully selected luxury lodges and eco-retreats. This itinerary showcases the best of Rwanda from the savannahs of Akagera to the montane rainforests of Nyungwe, and the iconic Volcanoes National Park while ensuring your journey is unforgettable at every step.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be met by your private guide and transferred in a luxury vehicle to your upscale hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you can unwind at your lodge or enjoy a guided tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local artisan galleries. The evening is reserved for a gourmet welcome dinner.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Kigali City Tour and Cultural Exploration
Spend the day exploring Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Visit the Nyamirambo Women’s Center for a cultural walking tour, browse local markets, and learn about Rwanda’s transformation at the Campaign Against Genocide Museum. Enjoy fine dining at a top local restaurant in the evening.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park
Drive eastward to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only Big Five reserve. En route, enjoy scenic countryside views and a stop at Imigongo Art Center. Arrive at your luxurious lodge in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive for your first taste of wildlife; giraffes, zebras, elephants, and more.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Mantis Akagera Game Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema
Today begins with a sunrise game drive deep into the park’s northern plains, where lions, buffaloes, and antelopes roam freely. After a picnic brunch in the bush, return for an afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema, offering a closer look at hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Mantis Akagera Game Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Bird Watching & Transfer Back to Kigali
Enjoy a morning birding walk with an expert guide before checking out. Return to Kigali in the afternoon for a relaxed evening. Optional stop at the Presidential Palace Museum en route.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Depart early for Nyungwe Forest National Park, a lush tropical rainforest in southern Rwanda. Stop at the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza and the Ethnographic Museum in Huye for cultural enrichment. Arrive at your luxury lodge nestled within or near the forest.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking in Cyamudongo Forest
Set off early for a thrilling chimpanzee trek in the Cyamudongo section of Nyungwe. Watch the forest come alive as you track playful troops through dense jungle. Return to your lodge for lunch and a relaxing afternoon with optional tea plantation walks or a spa session.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 8: Canopy Walk – Colobus Monkey Trekking
Today begins with the famous canopy walk, a suspended bridge 70 meters above the forest floor offering sweeping rainforest views. Later, track the black-and-white Angolan colobus monkeys, often seen in large groups. Spend the evening enjoying the lodge’s serenity.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 9: Transfer to Lake Kivu – Lakeside Luxury in Karongi
After breakfast, journey northwest to Karongi (Kibuye) on the shores of Lake Kivu. Check in to your lakefront lodge and spend the afternoon cruising to Napoleon Island, swimming, or enjoying sunset views.
Accommodation: Cormoran Lodge, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Clevers Lake Kivu Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 10: Lake Kivu to Volcanoes National Park
Drive along the scenic lakefront road to Volcanoes National Park in Musanze, home of the endangered mountain gorillas. Arrive in time for lunch at your luxury lodge, with the rest of the day free to explore the area or enjoy lodge amenities.
Accommodation: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 11: Mountain Gorilla Trekking
The highlight of your journey: mountain gorilla trekking. After a morning briefing, venture into the forest for an unforgettable encounter with a gorilla family. Spend an awe-inspiring hour in their presence before descending and returning to your lodge to relax and celebrate.
Accommodation: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 12: Golden Monkey Tracking – Cultural Village Visit
Enjoy a lighter but equally fascinating golden monkey trek. These playful primates are endemic to the Virunga region and a joy to watch. In the afternoon, visit the Gorilla Guardians Village to experience traditional Rwandan dance, cooking, and village life.
Accommodation: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 13: Hike to Dian Fossey’s Tomb or Leisure Day
Choose a half-day hike to Dian Fossey’s grave site and former Karisoke Research Center to learn about her legacy in gorilla conservation. Alternatively, spend the day indulging in your lodge’s spa services or walking through nearby communities and farmlands.
Accommodation: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 14: Return to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, return to Kigali with optional stops at local craft shops for souvenir shopping. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a final gourmet lunch in the city before your transfer to the airport for your international departure.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 14 Days Classic Wildlife Safari Adventure in Rwanda.
The 14 Days Classic Wildlife Safari Adventure in Rwanda 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.