Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Akagera National Park

Your Rwandan adventure begins with arrival at Kigali International Airport, where you meet your guide. After a brief introduction and transfer, you’ll head east to Akagera National Park (approx. 2.5 hours), Rwanda’s only savannah park.

Upon arrival, settle into your lodge before setting out on an afternoon game drive. Akagera boasts a rich array of wildlife including elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and an impressive bird population. The park’s rolling plains, lakes, and wetlands create a perfect backdrop for photography and wildlife viewing.

Overnight: Ruzizi Tented Lodge / Akagera Game Lodge

Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Akagera National Park

Today is dedicated to exploring Akagera’s diverse habitats on a full-day safari. Rise early for a morning game drive to maximize animal sightings. With luck, you’ll spot the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—alongside antelopes, warthogs, and numerous bird species.

After a picnic lunch, continue with a relaxing boat safari on Lake Ihema, home to hippos, crocodiles, and a dazzling variety of water birds. As the sun sets, enjoy the tranquil beauty of the park before returning to your lodge.

Day 3: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, depart Akagera and drive southwest towards Nyungwe Forest National Park (approx. 6-7 hours), one of Africa’s oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests. On the way, stop in Nyanza for a visit to the King’s Palace Museum, learning about Rwanda’s rich royal heritage.

Arrive at Nyungwe in the evening, where you’ll stay at a lodge nestled near the forest edge, surrounded by misty hills and lush greenery.

Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel / Nyungwe Forest Lodge

Day 4: Primate Trekking and Lake Kivu Relaxation

Start your day with an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe Forest. Accompanied by expert trackers, hike through the dense forest in search of playful chimps, red-tailed monkeys, and other primates. The forest’s biodiversity is staggering, with over 13 primate species and hundreds of bird species.

In the afternoon, transfer to Lake Kivu (approx. 3 hours), one of Africa’s Great Lakes, known for its tranquil waters and beautiful beaches. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the lakeshore or exploring local villages.

Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel / Paradise Malahide Resort

Day 5: Lake Kivu to Volcanoes National Park

Enjoy a peaceful morning by the lake before traveling to Volcanoes National Park (approx. 2.5 hours), Rwanda’s most famous park and home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Along the way, soak in views of the towering Virunga volcanoes.

Check into your lodge and prepare for the next day’s iconic gorilla trek. If time allows, visit the nearby Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International to learn about the conservation efforts that have helped save Rwanda’s gorillas.

Overnight: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Today’s the highlight of your trip: mountain gorilla trekking. After a briefing at the park headquarters, you’ll be assigned a gorilla family to track. The trek can last from 1 to 5 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but the reward is unparalleled.

Spend a magical hour observing the gorillas as they feed, play, and interact in their natural habitat. The experience is deeply moving and humbling, offering rare insight into these gentle giants.

Return to your lodge to rest or enjoy optional cultural activities such as visiting local communities or golden monkey trekking.

Day 7: Kigali City Tour and Departure

After breakfast, return to Kigali (approx. 2.5 hours). If your schedule permits, embark on a guided Kigali city tour, visiting highlights like the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and craft centers. This tour offers perspective on Rwanda’s past and its inspiring recovery.

Your guide will then transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your incredible week in Rwanda