9-Day Rwanda Adventure Safari
9-Day Rwanda Adventure Safari: Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzees & Big Five Wildlife Experience
Safari Overview
This 9-Day Rwanda Adventure Safari is designed for travelers seeking Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife experiences in one seamless journey.
The itinerary combines mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, and a classic Big Five safari in Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah reserve.
Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, and wildlife enthusiasts, this safari delivers maximum wildlife encounters, comfortable lodges, expert guiding, and smooth logistics from arrival to departure.
If you are searching for a Rwanda safari that balances primates, savannah wildlife, scenery, and culture, this itinerary offers exceptional value and unforgettable moments.
Day-by-Day Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Welcome to Rwanda
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you are warmly welcomed by your professional Ripple Safaris guide.
Enjoy a smooth private transfer to your hotel in Kigali, where you can relax after your flight.
Depending on arrival time, you may enjoy a short city orientation drive.
Overnight: Kigali hotel
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Kigali City Tour & Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, begin a guided Kigali City Tour, visiting:
- Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Local craft markets
- Key historical landmarks
Later, depart for Nyungwe Forest National Park, a scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills and tea plantations.
Nyungwe is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and home to 13 primate species.
Overnight: Nyungwe Forest top view Lodge or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
Early morning transfer to the park headquarters for a chimpanzee trekking briefing.
Track chimpanzees deep in the rainforest alongside experienced rangers.
Expect to encounter:
- Chimpanzees
- Colobus monkeys
- Rare bird species
This is an active and rewarding primate experience.
Overnight: Nyungwe Forest top view Lodge or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Canopy Walk & Transfer to Lake Kivu
After breakfast, enjoy the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, suspended high above the forest floor.
This thrilling experience offers panoramic views and unique birdlife sightings.
Later, drive to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes.
Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Lake Kivu Relaxation & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Spend the morning relaxing by Lake Kivu or enjoying optional activities such as:
- Boat cruise
- Lakeside Drives
- Cultural encounters
In the afternoon, transfer north to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas.
Overnight: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the highlight of the safari — mountain gorilla trekking.
After an early breakfast:
- Attend a briefing by park rangers
- Trek through bamboo forests and volcanic slopes
- Spend one magical hour with a gorilla family
This experience is emotional, powerful, and unforgettable.
Overnight: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Transfer to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, drive east to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s Big Five destination.
Akagera features savannah plains, lakes, and rolling hills, offering a classic African safari experience.
Enjoy an afternoon game drive upon arrival.
Overnight: Safari lodge in Akagera
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Full-Day Game Drive & Boat Safari in Akagera
Enjoy a full day exploring Akagera National Park.
Morning and afternoon game drives offer chances to see:
- Lions
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Leopards
- Rhinos
- Giraffes, zebras, and antelopes
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on Lake Ihema, famous for hippos and crocodiles.
Overnight: Safari lodge in Akagera
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Return to Kigali & Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a final game drive as you exit the park.
Transfer back to Kigali for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s Included
- Airport transfers
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Chimpanzee trekking permit
- All park entry fees
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- Game drives and boat safari
Ideal For
- First-time Rwanda safari travelers
- Couples and honeymooners
- Wildlife and primate enthusiasts
- Travelers seeking a complete Rwanda experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. A Rwanda gorilla trekking permit is mandatory, and it is included in this safari package. The permit grants you one hour with a mountain gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park and must be secured in advance due to limited availability.
This safari involves moderate physical activity. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking can take between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the primates. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, but porters are available to assist during treks if needed.
The best time to travel is during Rwanda’s dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. These months offer easier trekking conditions and excellent wildlife viewing, though this safari operates year-round.
Yes. This safari is suitable for older travelers and families with eligible children. Please note that gorilla trekking has a minimum age requirement of 15 years, as set by Rwanda’s conservation authorities.
Accommodation is carefully selected and ranges from comfortable mid-range to luxury lodges, all located close to the national parks. Each lodge offers private bathrooms, quality service, and easy access to safari activities.
Related Safaris
10-day adventure across Queen…
Uganda is a land of diverse landscapes and extraordinary wildlife, offering some of the…
5-day journey through Kibale…
Uganda offers a unique blend of rainforest adventures and savannah wildlife, making it a…
9-day premium safari with…
Uganda offers some of the most diverse and breathtaking safari experiences in Africa, blending…
What Our Guests Say
Share Your Experience
This safari exceeded every expectation. The gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park was a profound, once-in-a-lifetime encounter. The chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest was equally impressive. Seeing the Big Five in Akagera National Park completed a perfectly balanced adventure. Our guide was exceptionally knowledgeable, the lodges were comfortable, and the logistics were seamless. A truly unforgettable Rwandan adventure. Highly recommended.
- Authentic sustainable safaris
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Seamless stress-free travel
- Positive conservation impact
- Transportation in 4x4 vehicle
Need Help?
Our safari experts are ready to answer your questions and help you plan your perfect African adventure.