7 Days Rwanda Safari Itinerary

The 7 Days Rwanda Safari takes you through the land of a thousand hills, offering a perfect combination of wildlife, nature, and cultural experiences. From trekking the iconic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park to enjoying a classic safari in Akagera National Park, this itinerary promises an unforgettable exploration of Rwanda’s natural beauty and unique wildlife. Along the way, you will also visit Kigali, the country’s vibrant capital, and experience Rwanda’s rich history and culture.

Highlights

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Big Five game drive and boat safari in Akagera National Park
• Visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial
• Golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park
• Cultural experiences at Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
• Scenic views of Rwanda’s stunning landscapes

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Arrival at Kigali International Airport

Your 7 Days Rwanda Safari begins with your arrival in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and bustling capital city. You will be greeted by your guide at Kigali International Airport and transferred to your hotel.

Optional City Tour and Visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial

If time allows, you can take a city tour of Kigali, visiting key landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which offers insight into Rwanda’s tragic history and the country’s journey of recovery.

Accommodation:

Spend the night at a hotel in Kigali.

Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park

Scenic Drive to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savanna park. The park is located in the eastern part of the country and offers beautiful landscapes of rolling hills, savannas, woodlands, and wetlands.

Afternoon Boat Safari on Lake Ihema

Upon arrival, you will enjoy an afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema, the largest lake in the park. During the boat cruise, you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds, including African fish eagles and cormorants.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight at a lodge within Akagera National Park.

Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive in Akagera National Park

Morning Game Drive

Start your day with a thrilling game drive across Akagera National Park. This park is home to the Big Five, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. Other animals you might encounter include giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. The scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife make for an exciting safari experience.

Afternoon Game Drive

After a break for lunch, you will continue exploring the park with an afternoon game drive. Akagera’s diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of wildlife, and your guide will help you spot and identify various species throughout the day.

Accommodation:

Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening and overnight stay.

Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Drive to Volcanoes National Park

On Day 4, you will leave Akagera and travel to Volcanoes National Park in the northwestern part of Rwanda. The drive will take you through beautiful countryside, offering views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and rural villages.

Arrival and Relaxation

Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, you will check into your lodge and relax in preparation for the exciting gorilla trekking experience the following day.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight at a lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Morning Gorilla Trekking Adventure

The highlight of your 7 Days Rwanda Safari is the unforgettable experience of trekking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing by the park rangers. You will then begin your trek through the dense forest, guided by trackers who will lead you to one of the habituated gorilla families. Spending an hour in the presence of these gentle giants is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Afternoon Visit to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village

In the afternoon, you will visit Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, where you will have the opportunity to learn about Rwanda’s culture and traditions. The village showcases traditional dances, music, and local crafts, offering a rich cultural experience.

Accommodation:

Return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest.

Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking and Optional Activities

Morning Golden Monkey Tracking

On Day 6, you will embark on another exciting primate adventure: tracking golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. These playful and energetic monkeys are a joy to watch as they leap through the trees in their bamboo forest habitat.

Optional Activities in the Afternoon

In the afternoon, you can choose from several optional activities, such as a visit to the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, a nature walk, or a cultural tour in the nearby communities.

Accommodation:

Spend the night at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 7: Return to Kigali and Departure

Transfer to Kigali

After breakfast, you will leave Volcanoes National Park and return to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or a city tour before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

Departure

Your 7 Days Rwanda Safari comes to an end as you board your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of Rwanda’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture.

The 7 Days Rwanda Safari offers a perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences. From the Big Five in Akagera to the majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, this safari showcases the best of Rwanda’s natural wonders. Whether you’re tracking gorillas, spotting wildlife on a game drive, or learning about local traditions, this itinerary ensures an immersive and enriching experience in the heart of Africa.