8 Days Best of Kigali Rwanda Safari
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This carefully crafted 8-day journey through Rwanda offers the ultimate blend of culture, wildlife, and natural beauty. From the bustling capital of Kigali to the serene beauty of Volcanoes National Park, the lush canopies of Nyungwe Forest, and the savannah plains of Akagera National Park, this itinerary is perfect for travelers looking to deeply connect with Rwanda’s heart and soul. Experience the thrill of gorilla trekking, golden monkeys, chimpanzees, and a Big Five safari — all in one trip!
Day 1: Welcome to Rwanda – Kigali City Tour
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, a warm Rwandan welcome awaits from our Leone Tours guide. After a short briefing, embark on a fascinating Kigali city tour. You’ll visit iconic landmarks including the Genocide Memorial Centre, Kandt House Museum, and vibrant local markets. As the sun sets, head to your hotel for dinner and a restful overnight.
🛏️ Accommodation: Hotel in Kigali
🍽️ Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Volcanoes National Park Bound
After breakfast, you’ll hit the road north toward the misty Volcanoes National Park – a scenic drive through rolling green hills and picturesque villages. If you didn’t explore much of Kigali on Day 1, you’ll have a chance for a quick tour before lunch. Arrive at the lodge near the park and enjoy the tranquility.
🛏️ Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes NP
🍽️ Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: The Magical Gorilla Trekking Experience
Rise early for a once-in-a-lifetime experience: gorilla trekking. After a safety briefing at park headquarters, you’ll trek through dense rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family. Once found, you’ll spend one precious hour observing these gentle giants. Return for lunch, then choose between a visit to the twin lakes of Burera & Ruhondo, or a cultural village walk for some drumming, dancing, and storytelling.
🛏️ Accommodation: Same lodge
🍽️ Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Golden Monkeys & Drive to Lake Kivu
Your adventure continues with golden monkey trekking, an energetic and joyful pursuit through the forest. These playful primates are endemic to the Virunga Mountains and offer wonderful photo ops. After the trek and a quick lunch, you’ll drive west to the serene shores of Lake Kivu.
🛏️ Accommodation: Lake Kivu Hotel
🍽️ Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Lake Kivu Boat Ride & Transfer to Nyungwe
Enjoy a morning boat ride on Lake Kivu, spotting diverse birdlife — including kingfishers and ospreys. Later, you’ll embark on a drive to Nyungwe National Park, known for its ancient rainforest and primates. Check in, relax, and enjoy a peaceful dinner surrounded by nature.
🛏️ Accommodation: Lodge in/near Nyungwe
🍽️ Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Chimpanzees & Canopy Walk Adventure
Set out early into the Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee tracking. Spend a thrilling hour with our closest relatives in their natural habitat. After lunch, brace yourself for a breathtaking canopy walk, suspended above the treetops with views that will leave you speechless.
🛏️ Accommodation: Same lodge
🍽️ Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Journey to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, head east towards Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the Big Five. Upon arrival, enjoy a short game drive, perfect for spotting giraffes, impalas, zebras, and possibly rhinos before settling into your lodge for the night.
🛏️ Accommodation: Lodge in Akagera
🍽️ Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Boat Safari & Farewell
After breakfast, take a scenic boat safari on Lake Ihema, where crocodiles, hippos, and water birds abound. Time permitting, a final morning game drive will crown your safari before returning to Kigali for your onward journey.
🍽️ Meal Plan: Breakfast
Safari Highlights
Guided Kigali City Tour & Genocide Memorial
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Golden monkey trek and visit to Lake Kivu
Chimpanzee tracking and canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest
Wildlife safari and boat cruise in Akagera National Park
Cost per person Sharing Twin/Double Rooms.
From $9000 per person (2–10 PAX)
Safari Inclusions:
- All accommodations (carefully selected lodges & hotels)
- All activities (including gorilla permit, canopy walk, boat rides, and more)
- All meals as per itinerary
- Private transportation and English-speaking guide
- All park entry fees and taxes
- Drinking water throughout the safari
Safari Exclusions:
Additional nights of accommodation before or after the official safari dates
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Premium drinks, including alcoholic beverages and specialty coffees
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
Internet and phone usage charges
Optional activities not explicitly included in the itinerary
Departure taxes (where applicable)
Personal travel insurance (medical, trip cancellation, etc.)
Items of a personal nature, such as laundry, souvenirs, and toiletries
International flights to/from Rwanda
Visas or entry permits not listed as included in the itinerary
Ready to Embark on this 8 Day Best of Kigali Rwanda Safari?
Whether you’re dreaming of locking eyes with a mountain gorilla, cruising past hippos on the Nile, or spotting a leopard under the stars — this once-in-a-lifetime safari has it all.
Let’s bring your dream trip to life.
No obligations. No pressure. Just a customized quote built around your travel style, dates, and preferences.