RWANDA HIGHLIGHTS SAFARI

Experience the ultimate 8-day highlights of Rwanda safari. Track mountain Gorillas, hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb, cruise Lake Kivu, and enjoy an Akagera game drive.

Embark on the ultimate 8-day highlights of Rwanda safari. This comprehensive tour connects Rwanda's most iconic destinations, taking you from the clean streets of Kigali to the misty primate forests of Volcanoes National Park, the shores of Lake Kivu, and the big game savannahs of Akagera National Park.

Day 1

Arrival in Kigali – Touch down at Kigali International Airport, clear customs, and meet your dedicated safari guide. Enjoy a private transfer to your city hotel for check-in. Spend the rest of your day relaxing and unwinding ahead of your classic East African adventure.

Overnight: 5 Swiss Hotel, Lemigo Hotel, Kigali Serena Hotel

Day 2

Kigali City Tour & Volcanoes National Park – Discover the history of Rwanda's capital with a guided morning tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kandt House Museum, and local markets. Afterward, enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park for lunch and an evening at leisure.

Overnight: Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel, Fatima Hotel, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Day 3

Mountain Gorilla Trekking & Cultural Visit – Set off early for an unforgettable mountain gorilla tracking experience in the Virunga Mountains. Spend a thrilling hour observing a wild gorilla family up close. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to experience traditional Rwandan dance, customs, and heritage.

Overnight: Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel, Fatima Hotel, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Day 4

Dian Fossey Tomb Hike & Lake Kivu – Hike the historic trail to the Dian Fossey tomb and research site nestled between Mount Bisoke and Karisimbi. Tour the modern Ellen DeGeneres Campus to learn about gorilla conservation before taking a scenic drive to the beautiful shores of Lake Kivu.

Overnight: Paradise Malahide, Gorillas Lake Kivu Hotel, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Day 5

Lake Kivu Boat Cruise & Cycling – Explore the natural wonders of Lake Kivu with a visit to the Gisenyi Hot Springs and a 2-hour boat cruise to Napoleon Island to see giant fruit bats. End your day with a guided sunset mountain bike tour along the scenic shoreline.

Overnight: Paradise Malahide, Gorillas Lake Kivu Hotel, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Day 6

Akagera National Park & Lake Ihema Cruise – Travel east to Akagera National Park, Central Africa’s largest protected wetland. After lunch at your safari lodge, enjoy a late afternoon boat cruise on Lake Ihema to view huge concentrations of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and rare waterbirds.

Overnight: Akagera Game Lodge - Standard Room, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Wilderness Magashi Camp

Day 7

Akagera Game Drive & Return to Kigali – Embark on a sunrise guided game drive across Akagera's savannahs to spot the Big Five, including lions, rhinos, elephants, leopards, and buffaloes. After the wildlife safari, enjoy a smooth afternoon transfer back to Kigali for a relaxed evening.

Overnight: 5 Swiss Hotel, Lemigo Hotel, Kigali Serena Hotel

Day 8

Leisurely Morning & Departure – Savor breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Your guide will provide a smooth private ground transfer back to Kigali International Airport, arriving with plenty of time to check in for your international departure flight.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR SAFARI: This itinerary can be extended or customized to suit your preferred number of days, travel dates, accommodation category, interests, and budget. Choose from budget-friendly, mid-range, or luxury stays. Accommodation classifications, availability, permits, and rates must be confirmed before booking.

Contact us for a customized itinerary and personalized quotation to fit your budget and expectations.

Disclaimer: Accommodation options are subject to availability. Final property classifications, rates, meal plans, flight arrangements, park fees, permits, and activity access must be confirmed when preparing your personalized quotation. Gorilla and Golden Monkey permits are limited and should be secured well in advance.