This 7-day Rwanda Safari takes you on an unforgettable journey through the country’s most stunning national parks. From the ancient rainforests of Nyungwe Forest, home to fascinating primates, to the savannahs and wetlands of Akagera National Park, rich with wildlife, and the awe-inspiring Volcanoes National Park, famous for gorilla trekking, this itinerary offers a mix of adventure, culture, and nature. Each day is crafted to showcase Rwanda’s rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and vibrant wildlife.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Your adventure begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your guide and drive south towards Nyungwe Forest National Park. The journey offers scenic views of rolling hills, tea plantations, and rural life. Arriving at your lodge in Nyungwe, you’ll have the evening to relax and prepare for the following day’s explorations.
Highlights of the day:
- Scenic drive through Rwanda’s countryside
- Evening at leisure in Nyungwe
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe Forest is home to a variety of primates, including chimpanzees. After an early breakfast, you’ll head out with your guide to trek through the dense forest in search of these intelligent and fascinating creatures. The experience of watching chimps in their natural habitat is unforgettable. Later in the afternoon, enjoy a canopy walk, where you’ll stroll across suspension bridges high above the forest floor, offering incredible views of the forest below.
Highlights of the day:
- Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest
- Afternoon canopy walk experience
Day 3: Nyungwe Waterfalls and Nature Trails
Today, you’ll explore more of Nyungwe’s natural beauty with a hike to one of its stunning waterfalls. The trails wind through the lush greenery, offering opportunities to spot birds, monkeys, and unique plant species. The sound of the waterfall as you approach is soothing, and the scenic views around it are picture-perfect. In the afternoon, you can relax at the lodge or visit nearby tea plantations for a cultural experience.
Highlights of the day:
- Hike to Nyungwe waterfalls
- Optional visit to local tea plantations
Day 4: Transfer to Akagera National Park & Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, you’ll depart for Akagera National Park in the eastern part of Rwanda, known for its savannah landscapes and rich wildlife. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at the lodge before heading out on an afternoon game drive. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelopes roaming the park’s plains. Your guide will help you spot wildlife and share insights about Akagera’s ecosystem.
Highlights of the day:
- Afternoon game drive in Akagera
- Spotting elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes
Day 5: Full-Day Safari in Akagera National Park
Today is dedicated to a full-day safari in Akagera National Park. You’ll embark on an early morning game drive to increase your chances of spotting predators like lions and leopards. The park is also home to hippos and crocodiles, which you’ll likely see around the lakes. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wilderness, and continue exploring the park in the afternoon, discovering its rich birdlife and varied ecosystems, from woodland to wetland.
Highlights of the day:
- Morning game drive with chances of spotting lions and leopards
- Exploring Akagera’s diverse landscapes
Day 6: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll drive north towards Volcanoes National Park, the home of Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas. The journey will take you through scenic landscapes, including the towering Virunga Mountains. Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon and settle in. You’ll have time to explore the local village or relax with a view of the volcanoes ahead of tomorrow’s big adventure—gorilla trekking!
Highlights of the day:
- Scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park
- Relaxing evening with views of the Virunga Mountains
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
The highlight of your trip! After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll trek through the dense bamboo forest, climbing higher into the mountains in search of a gorilla family. The trek can be challenging, but the reward of watching these majestic animals in their natural habitat is beyond words. After spending an hour with the gorillas, you’ll trek back and return to your lodge. In the afternoon, drive back to Kigali, where your unforgettable Rwandan safari comes to an end.
Highlights of the day:
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Return to Kigali for departure
This 7-day Rwanda safari itinerary offers an exhilarating combination of primate tracking, wildlife safaris, and immersive nature experiences, all set against the backdrop of Rwanda’s incredible landscapes.
