9 Days Akagera, Nyungwe and Volcanoes Safari

Day 1:
Meet and greet in Kigali and Drive to Akagera National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your safari guide. After a short briefing, begin your scenic drive to Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of Rwanda. This journey takes you through rolling hills and rural landscapes. Arrive at the park in time for check-in at your lodge.
Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a short sunset drive or relax at the lodge. Akagera is Rwanda’s only savannah park, home to the Big Five. Spend your evening surrounded by nature as you prepare for your first game drive.

Accommodation Options
Midrange: Mantis Akagera Game Lodge
Budget: Ruzizi Tented Camp
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Morning Game Drive in Akagera National and afternoon boat ride on lake Ihema as you view the wildlife

Start your day with an early morning game drive through the park’s vast
plains and wooded hills. Expect sightings of elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and possibly lions or leopards. Birdlife is abundant, making it ideal for bird watchers as well. After lunch, head to Lake Ihema for an exciting afternoon boat safari. From the water, observe hippos, crocodiles, and numerous water birds like African fish eagles and herons. This relaxing boat ride offers a different perspective of the park. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accommodation Options
Midrange: Mantis Akagera Game Lodge
Budget: Ruzizi Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Drive to Nyungwe National Park and Canopy Walk

After breakfast, you will enjoy a final short morning drive through Akagera before beginning your transfer to Nyungwe National Park in southwestern Rwanda. The drive is long but scenic, offering glimpses of the countryside and tea plantations. Arrive in Nyungwe in the afternoon and proceed to the Canopy Walk experience. Suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, the canopy walkway provides breathtaking views and a chance to spot monkeys and exotic birds. It’s an exhilarating introduction to this ancient rainforest. Check in to your lodge for dinner and overnight rest in the cool mountain air.

Accommodation Options
Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe
Budget: Chimpanzee Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park and Nature Walk

Wake up early for a thrilling chimpanzee trekking adventure in Nyungwe.
Accompanied by experienced rangers, trek through the dense forest in search of these playful primates. Along the way, enjoy the lush scenery
and learn about other flora and fauna. After the trek, return to the lodge for a hearty lunch. In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk through one of Nyungwe’s many trails. This is a great opportunity to spot colobus monkeys, orchids, and unique bird species. Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.

Accommodation Options
Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe
Budget: Chimpanzee Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5:  Transfer to Volcanoes National Park &
Cultural Visit

After breakfast, depart Nyungwe for Volcanoes National Park in the north. This journey offers incredible views of Rwanda’s famous thousand hills and lakes. Arrive in Musanze, near the park, in the afternoon.
Later, visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to immerse yourself in traditional Rwandan culture. Meet local people, learn about traditional medicine, food preparation, and enjoy cultural dances. This community-based experience is enriching and supports local livelihoods.
Afterward, check into your lodge for dinner and prepare for the highlight of your safari – gorilla trekking.

Accommodation Options
Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe
Midrange: Sambora Kinigi
Budget: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6:  Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
and Relaxation at the Lodge

Today is the ultimate wildlife experience: trekking the endangered mountain gorillas. After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing. Guided by experienced trackers, hike through the bamboo forests until you locate a gorilla family. You’ll spend one unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat –an emotional and life-changing encounter. After the trek, return to the lodge to rest and reflect on the experience. The afternoon is free for optional activities such as a massage, village visit, or simply relaxing with views of the Virunga Mountains.

Accommodation Options
Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe
Midrange: Sambora Kinigi
Budget: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7:  Transfer to Lake Kivu Boat Ride

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing for Lake Kivu, located just an hour’s drive from Volcanoes National Park. Arrive in the lakeside town of Gisenyi and check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, take a peaceful boat ride on the lake, passing small islands and local fishing boats. Lake Kivu is one of Africa’s Great Lakes, with crystal-clear waters and a tranquil ambiance. After the boat ride, spend time relaxing on the beach or exploring the town. Enjoy a lakeside dinner and overnight stay by the water.

Accommodation Options
Midrange: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Budget: Asante Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8:  Return to Kigali & City Tour

After breakfast, embark on your return journey to Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital city. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided city tour that includes a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial – a moving and educational experience. Continue to local markets, art galleries, and craft centers where you can shop for souvenirs. The tour also provides insight into Kigali’s impressive development and cultural richness. In the evening, check in to your hotel for your final night in Rwanda.
Reflect on your journey over a farewell dinner in the city.

Accommodation Options
Midrange: Serena Hotel Kigali
Budget: Eagle View Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 9:  Drop of at to Kigali International Airport

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the hotel. Your guide will ensure a timely transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure. If time allows, you can make a brief stop at a local café or art center en route. Say goodbye to the Land of a Thousand Hills with memories of its wildlife, landscapes, and warm hospitality. Rwanda’s unique blend of nature, culture, and conservation leaves a lasting impression. Safe travels and we hope to welcome you again in the future!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner