The 10 Days Around Rwanda Wildlife Safari Adventure by Unique Africa Ventures is a luxurious journey designed for tourists who seek a comprehensive and immersive experience of Rwanda’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. From the Savannah of Akagera National Park and the misty highlands of Volcanoes National Park to the ancient rainforests of Nyungwe, this safari combines thrilling wildlife encounters, primate tracking, scenic boat cruises, and engaging cultural experiences. Each day is carefully curated to ensure maximum comfort, exclusivity, and adventure, with stays in high-end lodges, gourmet meals, and personalized service, allowing tourists to enjoy Rwanda’s beauty in ultimate luxury.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, tourists are welcomed by a professional driver-guide who will provide a briefing about the upcoming journey. Begin with a guided city tour, visiting key sites such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kimironko Market, and local craft centers. This immersive introduction to Rwanda’s capital blends history, culture, and modern charm.
In the evening, enjoy a luxurious welcome dinner at one of Kigali’s top restaurants, featuring fine Rwandan and international cuisine. Check into your elegant hotel for a restful night, preparing for the adventure ahead.
Accommodation Options: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel, Kigali Marriott Hotel
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, tourists depart Kigali for Akagera National Park, approximately two and a half hours away. Known for its savannahs and wetlands, Akagera is home to the Big Five, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. On arrival, check into a luxury lodge overlooking Lake Ihema and enjoy a gourmet lunch.
In the afternoon, embark on a sunset game drive across the park’s rolling plains. Spot giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and other wildlife in their natural habitat as the warm glow of the sun enhances the landscape. Return to the lodge for dinner and relaxation amidst serene African wilderness.
Accommodation Options: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive and Boat Safari
Following an early breakfast, set out for a full-day exploration of Akagera’s diverse habitats, including savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands. Guided by an expert ranger, tourists have opportunities to observe lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of antelopes.
Enjoy a picnic lunch within the park, then continue to Lake Ihema for a tranquil boat safari. Observe pods of hippos, crocodiles, and colorful waterbirds while enjoying the calm beauty of the lake. In the evening, return to the lodge for cocktails and a gourmet dinner, reflecting on the day’s wildlife encounters.
Accommodation Options: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Karenge Bush Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, tourists depart Akagera for Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda’s northern province. The scenic drive passes through Kigali and Rwanda’s rolling hills, tea plantations, and picturesque villages. Stop for lunch en route in Kigali before continuing to Musanze, the gateway to the gorillas.
Check into your luxury lodge nestled against the Virunga Volcanoes. Spend the afternoon at leisure, enjoying spa treatments or a guided walk in the surrounding countryside. In the evening, savor a fine dining experience overlooking mist-covered volcanic peaks.
Accommodation Options: Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, tourists proceed to Kinigi Park Headquarters for a briefing. Once assigned a gorilla group, begin the trek through dense forests and bamboo groves, guided by experienced trackers. The trek may take several hours depending on the gorilla family’s location.
Spending an hour observing gorillas in their natural habitat is a profound experience. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. Optional activities include visiting the Twin Lakes Burera and Ruhondo or exploring local villages. End the day with a gourmet dinner and overnight stay at your lodge.
Accommodation Options: Virunga Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Cultural Village Visit – Transfer to Lake Kivu
After breakfast, visit the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village to experience traditional Rwandan life through music, dance, crafts, and storytelling. Tourists gain insights into the country’s culture and heritage through hands-on experiences.
Later, drive to Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest and most scenic lake. Check into a luxury lakeside resort and spend the afternoon relaxing by the water or taking a sunset boat cruise. Dinner at the resort provides a perfect conclusion to a day of culture and scenery.
Accommodation Options: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Cormoran Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
After breakfast, tourists head to Nyungwe National Park in southwestern Rwanda. En route, stop at a tea plantation to learn about Rwanda’s thriving tea industry and enjoy scenic views and tea tastings. Continue through rolling hills to the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe, home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and countless bird species.
Check into your luxury forest lodge and relax in the serene environment. Evening dinner features locally inspired gourmet cuisine, accompanied by the sounds of the forest.
Accommodation Options: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Emeraude Kivu Resort
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
Wake early for a guided chimpanzee trek. Expert rangers lead tourists through dense forest trails, following the sounds of playful chimpanzees. Watching these primates swing, feed, and interact provides a fascinating insight into their complex behavior.
After the trek, enjoy lunch at the lodge and later take part in the canopy walk, suspended high above the forest for panoramic views of the rainforest. Return to the lodge for dinner and a restful evening amidst the jungle sounds.
Accommodation Options: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Emeraude Kivu Resort
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9: Forest Walks and Bird Watching – Leisure at Nyungwe
After breakfast, explore Nyungwe’s rich biodiversity through guided forest walks and bird watching excursions. The rainforest is home to over 300 bird species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Tourists can also enjoy optional activities such as nature photography, relaxing at the lodge, or visiting local communities.
In the afternoon, unwind at the lodge with a spa treatment or enjoy the serene surroundings. Dinner is served in a luxurious setting with locally sourced ingredients, capping off another day of wildlife immersion.
Accommodation Options: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Emeraude Kivu Resort
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10: Return to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, tourists depart Nyungwe for Kigali. Enjoy scenic stops along the route to capture photographs of Rwanda’s rolling hills and tea plantations. Upon arrival in Kigali, a brief stop at local markets or craft centers allows for souvenir shopping.
Tourists are then transferred to Kigali International Airport for their departure flight, concluding the 10-day luxury Rwanda Wildlife Safari Adventure with unforgettable memories of wildlife, primates, and Rwanda’s cultural heritage.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)
Included in the Tour Package:
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
- Private luxury 4×4 safari vehicle with bottled water.
- Gorilla trekking and chimpanzee trekking permits.
- Park entry fees for Akagera, Volcanoes, and Nyungwe National Parks.
- Game drives and boat safari at Akagera.
- Canopy walk in Nyungwe.
- Luxury accommodations as per itinerary.
- Meals as indicated.
- Kigali city tour and cultural village visit.
- Tea plantation tour and Lake Kivu boat ride.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off.
- Government taxes and service charges.
Excluded from the Tour Package:
- International and domestic flights.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- Rwanda visa fees.
- Porter services (optional).
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Alcoholic drinks and soft beverages not included in meals.
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.