11 Days Essence of Rwanda Safari Adventure
Price
Tour Overview
This 11-day Essence of Rwanda Safari Adventure takes you on a remarkable journey across Rwanda’s top wildlife and cultural destinations. From the rolling hills of Kigali to the savannah plains of Akagera National Park, the chimpanzee-filled canopies of Nyungwe Forest, and the misty jungles of Volcanoes National Park, this immersive trip blends primate encounters, big game safaris, and cultural discoveries.
You'll trek to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats, enjoy game drives through Rwanda’s only savannah park, relax on the shores of Lake Kivu, and explore the local traditions, cuisine, and resilience of Rwanda’s people. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or a cultural explorer, this private tour is curated for a rich and personal experience.
Tour Highlights
- Departure and Return Place: We can start/end the tour from any hotel in Kigali or Kigali International Airport.
- Departure Time: Please be ready by 7:00 AM for a prompt departure at 7:30 AM.
- Return Time: Approximately 4:00 PM on the last day.
- Dress Code: Casual. Comfortable trekking clothes, a hat, hiking boots, and a light rain jacket are recommended.
- Customizations: The tour can be adjusted to suit your specific needs or interests.
- Extensions: Additional days in Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi, or Tanzania can be added on request.
- Best Season: June to September and December to February for ideal trekking and wildlife viewing.
- Local Expertise: Led by experienced, Rwanda-based travel experts and professional guides.
- Private Experience: Personalized service with your own private guide and 4x4 safari vehicle throughout.
- Support: 24/7 assistance before, during, and after your trip.
What to Expect on Tour
- Spot the Big Five in Akagera National Park through exciting game drives and a boat safari.
- Trek chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest and cross the forest canopy walkway.
- Experience the thrill of mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
- Unwind at the scenic shores of Lake Kivu with optional boat rides or coffee tours.
- Explore Kigali city’s vibrant culture and history, including a visit to the Genocide Memorial.
- Enjoy picturesque drives through Rwanda’s rolling hills and terraced countryside.
- Engage with local communities through cultural village visits and guided interactions.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Kigali – Welcome to Rwanda
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. If time permits, you may enjoy a short city orientation tour depending on your flight arrival. Rest and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget Camping: Discover Rwanda Youth Hostel
- Standard: Heaven Boutique Hotel
Day 2 Kigali City Tour – Transfer to Akagera National Park
Start the day with a guided tour of Kigali, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and craft centers. After lunch, drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Arrive in time for a sunset view over Lake Ihema.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget Camping: Akagera Rhino Camp
- Standard: Akagera Game Lodge
Day 3Full Day Game Drive in Akagera National Park
Today is dedicated to a full-day game drive across the park's northern and central circuits. Search for lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various antelope species. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed in the bush, and you'll return to the lodge in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget Camping: Akagera Rhino Camp
- Standard: Akagera Game Lodge
Day 4 Morning Boat Safari – Transfer to Kigali
Enjoy a tranquil boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you may spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds. After the cruise, begin your journey back to Kigali for an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget Camping: Discover Rwanda Youth Hostel
- Standard: Hotel des Mille Collines
Day 5 Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park via Butare
Depart for Nyungwe Forest with a scenic drive through southern Rwanda. Stop at Nyanza King’s Palace and the Ethnographic Museum in Huye (Butare) to explore Rwanda’s rich history. Continue to Nyungwe for overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget Camping: Gisakura Guesthouse
- Standard: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Day 6 Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe
Rise early for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe’s tropical rainforest. In the afternoon, enjoy the iconic canopy walk, offering panoramic views of the forest canopy and birdlife.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget Camping: Gisakura Guesthouse
- Standard: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Day 7 Transfer to Lake Kivu – Relaxation on the Shoreline
Depart for Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s great lakes. Arrive in Gisenyi and spend the afternoon at leisure—swimming, relaxing by the lake, or taking an optional boat ride or coffee tour.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget Camping: Inzu Lodge
- Standard: Paradise Kivu Resort
Day 8 Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Twin Lakes Visit
After breakfast, travel to Volcanoes National Park in the Virunga Mountains. En route, visit the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo—stunningly scenic crater lakes nestled among volcanic peaks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget Camping: Amahoro Guest House
- Standard: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
Day 9 Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the highlight of your trip—mountain gorilla trekking! After an early briefing, hike through the lush rainforest to observe a gorilla family in their natural habitat. Enjoy a quiet hour with these incredible primates.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget Camping: Amahoro Guest House
- Standard: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
Day 10 Cultural Visit and Transfer to Kigali
After breakfast, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to experience traditional Rwandan customs, music, and dance. Later, drive back to Kigali for your final night in Rwanda.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget Camping: Discover Rwanda Youth Hostel
- Standard: Hotel des Mille Collines
Day 11 Departure Day – Farewell Rwanda
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: None (End of Tour)
Pricing Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off (Kigali International Airport)
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide
- Accommodation as per itinerary (Budget Camping or Standard Package)
- All meals as specified in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Park entry fees for all mentioned national parks
- Gorilla trekking permit (1 per person)
- Chimpanzee trekking permit (1 per person)
- Canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest
- Game drives and boat safari in Akagera National Park
- Kigali City Tour and Genocide Memorial entrance fees
- Bottled drinking water during transfers and activities
- All government taxes and conservation fees
- Cultural village visits and guided community experiences
Pricing Excludes
- International and domestic flights
- Rwanda visa fees (if applicable)
- Travel insurance and personal medical expenses
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
- Laundry services and souvenirs
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Extra nights of accommodation before or after the tour
FAQs
What happens if I get sick or injured on safari?
Do I need a visa to enter Rwanda?
Yes. Most travelers require a visa to enter Rwanda. You can apply for a Rwanda Tourist Visa online (e-visa) or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. The East Africa Tourist Visa is also available and allows travel between Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.
Is Rwanda safe for tourists?
When is the best time to visit Rwanda?
The best time is during the dry seasons:
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June to September
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December to February
These periods are ideal for gorilla trekking and other outdoor activities due to minimal rainfall.
How fit do I need to be for gorilla trekking?
What should I pack for my trip?
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Sturdy hiking boots
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Lightweight rain jacket
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Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for the forest
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Sunscreen and insect repellent
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A hat, gloves, and a daypack
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Reusable water bottle
How close can I get to the gorillas?
Are children allowed on gorilla treks?
What languages are spoken in Rwanda?
Can I customize my trip?
What is the currency used in Rwanda?
Is tipping expected in Rwanda?
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