7 Days Rwanda Safari: Wildlife, Primates & Scenic Landscapes.
This 7-day Rwanda Safari itinerary is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From thrilling wildlife encounters in Akagera to the awe-inspiring experience of gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, this journey offers a deep dive into Rwanda’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Whether you choose luxury or budget-friendly accommodations, this safari guarantees incredible memories and unique wildlife experiences that will last a lifetime.
Embark on an unforgettable 7-day Rwanda Safari, exploring the country’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and renowned primate species. This safari takes you through three of Rwanda’s premier national parks: Akagera National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Nyungwe Forest National Park. Expect incredible game drives, thrilling gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, golden monkey encounters, and a serene boat cruise on Lake Ihema. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or an adventure seeker, this one-week Rwanda Safari promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Gateway to Rwanda Safari
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, our professional tour guide with a placard displaying your name will be waiting. After a warm welcome, you will be transferred to your booked hotel in Kigali. Use this time to relax and refresh after your flight. If you arrive early, you may explore Kigali city, known for its cleanliness, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Accommodation Options:
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Luxury: Serena Hotel Kigali
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Mid-range: Hotel Chez Lando
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Budget: Iris Guest House
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park & Evening Boat Cruise
Your Rwanda Safari truly begins as you depart Kigali after breakfast, embarking on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Akagera National Park. This park is the only savannah park in Rwanda and offers a unique blend of wetlands, rolling plains, and lush landscapes. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch before heading out for an afternoon boat cruise on Lake Ihema.
The boat trip on Lake Ihema provides an excellent opportunity to see hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for elephants and buffaloes that often graze along the lake’s shores. The picturesque scenery and abundant birdlife make this an exceptional experience.
Accommodation Options:
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Luxury: Ruziza Tented Camp
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Mid-range: Akagera Game Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Game Drive in Akagera & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Start the day with an early breakfast before embarking on a thrilling game drive in Akagera’s vast savannah plains. This four-hour drive provides a chance to spot the “Big Five” (lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes) alongside giraffes, zebras, hyenas, and antelopes. The park’s breathtaking scenery, from open plains to papyrus swamps, makes it one of Africa’s most picturesque wildlife reserves.
After the game drive, enjoy lunch and set off on a road trip to Volcanoes National Park, passing through Kigali and scenic Rwandan villages. Arrive in the evening and check into your accommodation near the park.
Accommodation Options:
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Luxury: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
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Mid-range: Gorilla Solution Lodge
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Budget: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla trekking is the highlight of any Rwanda Safari. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters in Kinigi for a briefing on trekking guidelines. Groups of up to eight visitors are assigned a specific gorilla family, and the trek through the bamboo forest begins under the guidance of experienced rangers.
The duration of the trek varies from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ movement. Upon finding a gorilla family, you will spend a magical hour observing these incredible primates in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to your lodge to rest and share stories of your unforgettable experience.
Accommodation Options:
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Luxury: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
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Mid-range: Gorilla Solution Lodge
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Budget: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Golden Monkey Trekking & Transfer to Nyungwe Forest
Another exciting primate encounter awaits as you trek to see golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. These agile and playful monkeys are native to the Virunga Mountains and are known for their striking golden-orange fur. The trek is relatively easier than gorilla trekking, lasting about 2 to 4 hours.
After lunch, embark on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, tea plantations, and rural villages. Arrive in the evening and check into your accommodation near the forest.
Accommodation Options:
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Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe Forest House
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Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
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Budget: Gisakura Guest House
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe Forest is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a biodiversity hotspot. Early in the morning, set off on a chimpanzee trekking adventure. Your guide will lead you through dense forest trails to locate these intelligent primates. Once found, you can watch them interact, play, and swing through the trees for an hour.
After lunch, enjoy the famous canopy walk, an exhilarating 90-meter-long bridge suspended high above the forest. This adventure provides breathtaking views of the lush green landscape and a unique perspective of the forest’s wildlife.
Accommodation Options:
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Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe Forest House
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Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
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Budget: Gisakura Guest House
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 7: Return to Kigali & Departure
On the final day of your Rwanda Safari, enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading back to Kigali. If time permits, take a short tour of Kigali city, visiting craft shops or the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Your driver-guide will ensure you arrive at Kigali International Airport in time for your departure flight, marking the end of an unforgettable 7-day adventure in Rwanda.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Rates & Pricing
Available Upon Request
Our rates for the packages are based on the starting price per person sharing. However, we always strive to provide the best possible promotions and discounts to our valued customers. To get the most updated information on the latest deals and offers, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team of experts who will be more than happy to guide you through the booking process.
Includes:
✓ All Transport & Airport Transfers
✓ Accommodation
✓ Park Entry Fees
✓ Full Board Meal Plan
✓ Game viewing drives
✓ Professional Guide-driver
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