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What's included
- A guided tour of important places
- Accommodation in single twin share room
- Beautifully illustrated souvenir map
- Entrance tickets to monuments and museums
- First Entrance fees
- Meals, unless expressly states
- Observation and participation in allowed activities
- Professionally guided tour
- Unlimited bottled water
- Current Hotel Taxes and Service Charges
- International Air, unless expressly paid for
- Other International flights
- Personal expenses
- Visa arrangements
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 8-day adventure through Rwanda’s spectacular national parks, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture. From the vast savannas of Akagera National Park to the lush forests of Nyungwe National Park, the pristine waters of Lake Kivu, and the magnificent gorillas of Volcanoes National Park, this tour is a feast for the senses.
Your adventure begins in Kigali, where you will be welcomed by your experienced guide who will take you on a journey of discovery and adventure through Rwanda’s diverse landscapes and unique wildlife. Get ready to witness the beauty of Africa up close and personal as you explore the country’s most iconic destinations.
This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure. With a range of activities, including game drives, gorilla tracking, and cultural visits, there’s something for everyone on this incredible journey through Rwanda. So buckle up, get your cameras ready, and let’s embark on this epic adventure!
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
- Day 6
- Day 7
- Day 8
Kigali to Akagera National Park
Arrive at Kigali early morning. Drive from Kigali to Akagera National Park, a drive lasting around four or five hours. The journey is mainly on tarmacked good quality roads until the final section.
The 100,000-hectare Akagera National Park is situated in eastern Rwanda, bordering Tanzania, and has been managed by African Parks in partnership with the Rwanda Development Board since 2010. It comprises some of the most scenic savannahs in East Africa – open plains, woodlands, lakes, swamps, and grassy low mountains. Akagera has undergone an incredible transformation in the last eight years where poaching has essentially been eliminated and wildlife is now thriving. African Parks reintroduced lions in 2015 after a 20-year absence and reintroduced the black rhinoceros in 2017.
Enjoy an evening boat road across Lake Ihema spotting hippos and many different species of birds.
Stay the night at a hotel in the park
Akagera National Park
Wake early to enjoy a full-day safari game drive accompanied by an expert guide, driving through the incredible landscape of Akagera National Park.
The varied landscape is shown through the different species spotted here. Visitors to the park will be able to view a range of wildlife on expertly-guided game drives, walks, and boating trips, including buffalo, lion, leopard, elephant, giraffe, spotted hyena, zebra and more.
The park also boasts almost 500 species of birds including the spectacular shoebill with its implausibly massive bill and the near-endemic red-faced barbet.
Stay the night at the same hotel.
Akagera to Nyungwe National Park
Drive from Akagera National Park to Nyungwe Forest.
Along the way to Nyungwe Forest stop off in the Cultural Heritage Corridor of Rwanda and visit the King’s Palace and The Ethnographic Museum
Covering over 1000 square kilometres, Nyungwe is surely one of the world’s most beautiful and pristine mountain rainforests. It’s believed to be one of Africa’s oldest forests, staying green even through the Ice Age, which explains its diversity.
Home to habituated chimpanzees and 12 other primates species (including a 400-strong troop of habituated Ruwenzori Black & White Colobus), it’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 300 species, including 16 endemics, and is home to 75 different species of mammal.
This majestic rainforest is filled with nature and wildlife experiences for you to emerge yourself in. Hiking or even biking the beautiful terrain, tracking the famous chimpanzees, experiencing the canopy walk, witnessing beautiful birds, relaxing by waterfalls are just a glimpse of activities that Nyungwe offers.
Sounds and views collaborate to create a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience. Exploring through the forest, you will witness the lush green mountains and cooling mist in a landscape that won’t be soon forgotten.
Experience the only canopy walk in East Africa before heading to your hotel.
Nyungwe National Park
Wake up early to go chimpanzee tracking in the Nyungwe Forest. After a short briefing by your guide, walk through stunning tea plantations before entering the thick luscious forest. There are over 13 species of monkeys found in the forest and excellent birding opportunities with over 100 species of butterflies and the occasional chameleon.
The excursion can last from one to four hours but you will hear the chimpanzees from the moment you enter the forest. Once found you will stay for an hour with the chimpanzees, watching them play, fight and eat in the atmospheric forest.
Return to your hotel to relax and refresh.
Nyungwe to Lake Kivu
Transfer along the beautiful coastal road to Lake Kivu, Serena Hotel. The drive lasts around three hours and offers some of Rwanda’s most beautiful scenery. Look out over Lake Kivu’s hundred islands and beautiful shores.
The Serena Hotel on the north shore of Lake Kivu provides beautiful views of the lake and the Congo region.
Relax by kayaking and swimming in the lake. Kingfisher Journeys organize kayaking, canoeing, and mountain biking opportunities around Lake Kivu and the surrounding areas.
Lake Kivu to Volcanoes National Park
Spend the morning relaxing at the Lake before transferring to Volcanoes National Park in the afternoon.
Relax at your hotel near Volcanoes National Park.
Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park: Wake up at sunrise and drive the short journey to the park headquarters where briefing, porters and tea and coffee will be given before starting the adventure into the forest. Local ports can be arranged and help with the guide to complete the gorilla tracking experience.
Tracking can be between 90 minutes and the whole morning depending on what family group is assigned. You will spend one hour with the gorillas – sometimes moving around to stay with the gorillas or following them. The guide will ensure you are in the best spots to take the most beautiful pictures and experience the breathtaking experience properly.
Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening and refreshments.
Volcanoes National Park to Kigali
Golden monkey tracking: Hikes to see the smaller and nimbler monkeys are a fun and adventurous way to explore the forest. Named because of their bright orange bodies, they are indigenous to the region and more elusive than the gorillas and these fast-moving monkeys will certainly keep you on your toes.
Return to your hotel to freshen up and have a light meal before returning to Kigali that afternoon.
Spend the night at a hotel in Kigali and enjoy the hotel’s delicious food and offerings.
Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening and refreshments.
More about Rwanda
Rwanda is a small, yet enchanting country located in East Africa. Known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills", Rwanda is a destination like no other, offering visitors a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Mountain Gorillas:One of the main attractions in Rwanda is the opportunity to see the majestic mountain gorillas up close and personal. Trekking through the lush rainforests of the Virunga Mountains to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat is an experience that will leave you awe-inspired and humbled.
Vast Wildlife:In addition to gorilla trekking, Rwanda is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including golden monkeys, chimpanzees, lions, leopards, and many more. Visitors can explore the country's national parks and reserves, such as Akagera National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park, to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitats.
Rich Cultural Heritage:But Rwanda is more than just wildlife. It is a country rich in culture, with a proud and vibrant history. Visitors can explore the country's cultural heritage by visiting museums, such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and traditional villages to learn about the customs and traditions of the local people.
Striking Scenery:One of the highlights of Rwanda is its breathtaking scenery. From the rolling hills of the countryside to the sparkling lakes and waterfalls, the country's natural beauty is truly spectacular. Visitors can take in the stunning views by hiking, cycling, or simply relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Pure Adventure:For adventure seekers, Rwanda offers a range of activities, such as white-water rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining.
Monumental History:And for those interested in history, the country has a rich and complex past, including the tragic events of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda's history by visiting historical sites, such as the Ntarama and Nyamata Genocide Memorials.
Friendly People:But perhaps one of the greatest treasures of Rwanda is its people. Known for their warmth, friendliness, and hospitality, the people of Rwanda will welcome you with open arms and make you feel right at home. Visitors can interact with locals, learn about their way of life, and enjoy the delicious local cuisine, which includes traditional dishes such as ugali, beans, and plantains.
In conclusion, Rwanda is a destination that offers something for everyone. From the incredible wildlife to the stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage, this country is truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. So come and experience the beauty and warmth of Rwanda, and create memories that will last a lifetime.