This 10-day safari itinerary offers the ultimate Rwandan experience, taking you on an extraordinary journey through the country’s most renowned national parks: Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, and Volcanoes National Park. From exhilarating wildlife encounters and primate trekking to breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences, this adventure is designed for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. You’ll have the opportunity to trek with gorillas, observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat, explore savannah wildlife, and immerse yourself in Rwanda’s vibrant culture.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Welcome to Rwanda! Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll meet your guide and transfer to your hotel in Kigali. After check-in, enjoy a relaxing evening or, if time permits, embark on a brief tour of the city. Highlights could include the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local markets, giving you a taste of the rich history and culture of Rwanda before your safari begins.
Highlights of the day:
- Arrival and warm welcome in Kigali
- Optional city tour: Kigali Genocide Memorial, markets
Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Today, after breakfast, you’ll leave Kigali behind and drive south to Nyungwe Forest National Park. The journey offers stunning views of Rwanda’s famous rolling hills and lush tea plantations. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area or simply relaxing in preparation for the next day’s adventure.
Highlights of the day:
- Scenic drive through Rwanda’s hills and tea plantations
- Relaxing evening in the heart of Nyungwe
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
Your day begins early with a thrilling chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe Forest. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll venture into the dense forest, listening for the calls of the chimpanzees. Once you find them, observe their interactions and learn about their behaviors as they forage, groom, and play. In the afternoon, take the iconic canopy walk, offering sweeping views of the forest and an up-close look at Nyungwe’s rich birdlife.
Highlights of the day:
- Early morning chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest
- Afternoon canopy walk for panoramic views of the forest
Day 4: Colobus Monkey Trekking and Waterfall Hike
Nyungwe Forest is also home to large groups of colobus monkeys, and today you’ll set out on a trek to spot these lively creatures. Watch as they leap through the treetops in large groups. Later, enjoy a refreshing hike to one of the park’s stunning waterfalls. The trail winds through dense vegetation, revealing beautiful birdlife and scenic landscapes.
Highlights of the day:
- Colobus monkey trekking in the morning
- Waterfall hike with lush forest scenery
Day 5: Transfer to Akagera National Park & Evening Game Drive
After breakfast, say goodbye to Nyungwe and begin your journey to Akagera National Park in the eastern part of Rwanda. The drive offers a stunning transition from mountainous landscapes to the open savannah of Akagera. After checking in at your lodge, enjoy an evening game drive where you’ll have the chance to see elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and other wildlife as the sun sets over the park.
Highlights of the day:
- Scenic drive to Akagera National Park
- Evening game drive to spot elephants, giraffes, and more
Day 6: Full-Day Safari in Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is a wildlife lover’s paradise, and today you’ll spend the whole day exploring its vast savannahs, lakes, and woodlands. In the morning, embark on a game drive in search of predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas. You’ll also spot zebras, antelopes, and many bird species. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds in their natural habitat.
Highlights of the day:
- Morning game drive with opportunities to see lions and leopards
- Boat safari on Lake Ihema to spot hippos and crocodiles
Day 7: Morning Game Drive & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Enjoy one final game drive in Akagera this morning before departing for Volcanoes National Park. The scenic drive north takes you through the picturesque countryside, passing by local villages and lush landscapes. You’ll arrive at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park in the afternoon, with time to relax or explore the nearby communities.
Highlights of the day:
- Morning game drive in Akagera
- Scenic transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the pinnacle of your safari! After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. You’ll be assigned a group, and with your guide, you’ll set out into the forest in search of a mountain gorilla family. Trekking through the misty bamboo forests can be challenging, but the reward of seeing gorillas up close in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. After spending an hour with the gorillas, return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest.
Highlights of the day:
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Unforgettable close-up encounter with mountain gorillas
Day 9: Golden Monkey Trekking & Cultural Experience
This morning, you’ll embark on another incredible primate adventure—golden monkey trekking. These playful monkeys, known for their golden fur and lively behavior, are a joy to watch as they leap through the trees. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Rwandan culture with a visit to a nearby community. Learn about local traditions, crafts, and dance, and interact with the people who call this beautiful region home.
Highlights of the day:
- Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Afternoon cultural experience in a local village
Day 10: Transfer to Kigali & Departure
Your adventure concludes today with a return trip to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore the city or visit local craft markets for souvenirs. If you didn’t have a chance earlier, consider a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, an important and moving reminder of Rwanda’s history. Afterward, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Rwandan safari.
Highlights of the day:
- Transfer back to Kigali
- Optional city exploration and departure
This 10-day Rwanda safari offers the perfect blend of thrilling wildlife encounters, primate trekking, and cultural immersion. From the rainforests of Nyungwe and the savannahs of Akagera to the iconic gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, this journey showcases the very best of Rwanda’s natural wonders.
