Highlights of 5 Days Safari in Rwanda

• Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
• Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Cultural Experience
• Day 4: Wildlife Safari Adventure in Akagera National Park
• Day 5: Boat Safari and Departure

Detailed itinerary of 5 Days Safari in Rwanda

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda

As you arrive at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representative, your private safari-driver guide. He will then transfer you to your accommodation in Kigali City, have some time to unwind as you get used to the Rwanda atmosphere.

In the afternoon, explore the city of Kigali on visits to market centers, Kigali Genocide Memorial Center, Museums and several cultural sites if time allows. Immerse yourself in history, culture and resilience of Rwanda’s people. Have dinner at your hotel before having a good night sleeping.

Overnight at Kigali Serena Hotel.

Meal Plan: Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Start your day very early at around 0400 am with early breakfast before departing from Kigali towards Volcanoes National Park, which is home to endangered mountain gorillas. On reaching the park, you will join other visitors in briefing conducted at the park headquarters in Kinigi, a senior ranger guide will take you through rules and regulations to follow, be assigned a gorilla group to trek in groups of 8 people then begin your trek through the misty forest.

You will follow the trails led by a guide and armed rangers until you come face to face with mountain gorillas, the trek takes approximately 30 minutes to 6 hours or more depending on the movement of mountain gorillas and where they spent their previous night. Spend a hour observing their behaviors, interacting and capturing photos.

After the trek, return to your lodge for an evening of rest, reflecting on this once in a lifetime encounter. Have dinner and overnight.

Overnight at One & Only Gorilla’s Nest

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Cultural Experience

Start your day early with breakfast before heading to park again for an exciting golden monkey trekking adventure. Have briefing at the park headquarters, then enter into the misty forest looking for the beautiful golden monkeys. These mischievous primates are native to the Albertine Rift. Observing them go on with their life in the bamboo vegetation is a delight, traverse through the forest following their movements and relish an hour in their company.

In the afternoon head to the Gorilla Guardian’s Village “Ib’Iwacu Cultural Village” to engage with the local community, discover their traditional way of life and participate in cultural activities like traditional dances, basket weaving or storytelling. Get insights into Rwanda’s Cultural Heritage and understand the significance of community based tourism initiatives. Return to your lodge for a dinner and overnight.

Overnight at One & Only Gorilla’s Nest

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Wildlife Safari Adventure in Akagera National Park

After breakfast depart from Volcanoes National Park and begin a journey to Akagera National Park in Eastern Rwanda.

Akagera National Park is the only savannah national park in Rwanda boasting an ecosystem that encompasses savannahs, wetlands and lakes – offering a safari experience. Prepare for an exciting wildlife safari in Akagera as you search for wildlife species such as elephants, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, antelopes, along with a plethora of birdlife.

Immerse yourself in the nature’s beauty as you witness these animals thriving in their habitat. On the game drives, you will be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who will share their insights about the flora and fauna. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the landscape that surround the park.

In the evening, you will return to your lodge nestled within or nearby Akagera National Park, where you can have dinner and enjoy an overnight stay.

Overnight at Magshi Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Boat Safari and Departure 

Start your day with early breakfast, then head to the park for a boat safari on Lake Ihema. Cruise along its shores observing hippos, crocodiles and an array of water birds. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the lake while witnessing wildlife encounters from a vantage point.

After this exciting experience bid farewell to Akagera National Park. Begin your journey back to Kigali, if time permits consider visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial Museum to gain insights into the horrific Rwanda Genocide. Your guide will drop you off at Kigali International Airport for your onward flight bring your safari to an end.

End of 5 Days Safari in Rwanda.