8 DAYS BEST SAFARI HOLIDAYS IN RWANDA

From US$5,970 – $11,960 Per Person

SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS:

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking | Chimpanzee Tracking | Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Visits | Rwanda’s Most Visited National Parks | Dian Fossey Grave Shrine.

Start Planning

Overview: 8 Days Best Safari Holidays in Rwanda

The 8 Days Best Safari Holidays in Rwanda is crafted tour designed for an unparalleled wildlife and cultural adventure. This private safari ensures a bespoke experience with a dedicated expert guide and your own 4×4 vehicle, offering personalized attention and flexibility throughout your journey.

Begin and conclude your adventure in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, where you’ll explore its museums, memorials, art galleries, and shopping districts. From Kigali, visit Akagera National Park for game drives, scenic boating safaris, and fishing excursions. In Nyungwe Forest National Park, embark on chimpanzee and monkey treks (ages 15 & over), explore swamps and waterfalls, and enjoy bird and canopy walks. At Volcanoes National Park, encounter the majestic mountain gorillas and playful golden monkeys, or challenge yourself with a hike up Mount Karisimbi or Bisoke.

This safari also includes cultural and adventure tours to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, Dian Fossey Grave Shrine, and the Musanze Caves and Buhanga Forest. With the convenience of private logistical transfers, you have the flexibility to tailor your itinerary with additional destinations, extra nights, or personalized activities. This journey promises an enriching exploration of Rwanda’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, making it perfect for couples, families (15+ years), honeymooners, and solo travelers.

Package Inclusions

This 8 Days Best Safari Holidays in Rwanda package includes transportation in a private 4×4 safari vehicle, specified lodge accommodations, and all meals. It covers one Gorilla permit ($1500, payable in advance) and one Chimpanzee permit per person.

Enjoy en-route lunches, a Kigali city tour, and the services of an English-speaking driver/guide. Each guest also receives daily mineral water and a travelogue from Njagi Creative Print, ensuring a comfortable and memorable safari experience.

Package Exclusions

The 8 Days Best Safari Holidays in Rwanda package excludes personal expenses such as airfare, visa fees, beverages, laundry, tips for local guides, telephone charges, porter fees during trekking, personal insurance, and shopping costs.

Request a Quote

8 Days Best Safari Holidays in Rwanda

Day-To-Day Program

Day 1: Arrival Transfer From Kigali International Airport (KGL)

Accommodation: Serena Hotel (Luxury), Park Inn By Radisson Kigali (Upmarket) Chez Lando Hostel (Midrange)

Park Inn by Radisson Kigali

Optional Tour Activities: Kigali Genocide Memorial, Natural History Museum – Kandt House, The Dancing Pots, Caplaki Handicrafts Cooperative, Art Galleries – Inema, Ivuka & Niyo
Meal Plan: Dinner

Upon arriving at Kigali International Airport (KGL), you’ll be transferred to your chosen accommodation for the night: the luxurious Serena Hotel, the upscale Park Inn by Radisson Kigali, or the comfortable Chez Lando Hostel. Begin your adventure in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore its cultural landmarks, immerse yourself in its rich history, and experience the city’s warm, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy a relaxing evening and dinner at your selected lodge, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead.

Day 2: Transfer From Kigali To Akagera National Park With Your Private Guide & Exclusive 4×4 Vehicle

Journey time: Over 4 hours
Accommodation: Ruzizi Tented Lodge (Luxury), Ruzizi Tented Lodge (Midrange), Akagera Game Lodgee (Standard)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Akagera Elephants

On Day 2 of your Safari Holidays in Rwanda, you’ll drive from Kigali to Akagera National Park with your private guide and exclusive 4×4 vehicle. The journey, spanning approximately 4 hours, offers captivating views of Rwanda’s stunning landscapes and a glimpse into the country’s vibrant spirit. Named after the Kagera River, which flows along the park’s eastern border and nourishes Lake Ihema and Lake Shakani, Akagera National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity.

In 2017, conservation efforts reintroduced the black rhino, making Akagera the only park in Rwanda to host the Big Five. The park is also known for the rare sitatunga antelope, which inhabits the swamps, and the elusive shoebill stork. In addition to lions, you may encounter hyenas, side-striped jackals, leopards, mongooses, and a variety of herbivores.

Day 3: Akagera National Park

Accommodation: Akagera Game Lodge (Luxury), Ruzizi Tented Lodge (Midrange), Akagera Game Lodge (Standard)
Included Activities: Game drives
Optional Activities: Boating safaris, night game drives and fishing.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Ruzizi Tented Lodge-Akagera

Ruzizi Tented Lodge was opened in 2013, the lodge offers a unique experience in Akagera National Park, nestled among acacia and brachystegia trees by Lake Ihema. This eco-friendly lodge, constructed with sustainable materials and powered by solar energy, blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy peace and solitude, with the sounds of over 500 bird species and wildlife as their backdrop. The lodge features nine lakeside tents, including options for couples, families, and adventurous travelers, each with an ensuite bathroom and charming Rwandan decor. For a special treat, the treetop tent provides a king-sized bed, hammock, standalone bath, and al fresco shower. As dusk falls, watch hippos emerge from the lake while enjoying a starlit dinner.

Day 4: Transfer from Akagera to Volcanoes National Park

Optional Activities: Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Tour & Dian Fossey Grave Shrine Tour, Mount Karisimbi or Bisoke Hike, Musanze Caves & Buhanga Forest Tour
Accommodation: Virunga Lodge (Luxury), Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Upmarket) Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge (Midrange), Garden Place Hotel (Standard), Muhabura Hotel (Budget)
Meal Plan: Lunch enroute, Dinner

About Virunga Lodge-Volcanoes

virunga lodge

Virunga Lodge is perched on a scenic ridge with stunning views of Volcanoes National Park and offers an enchanting stay surrounded by the natural beauty of Rwanda. The lodge boasts breath-takes of Lake Bulera and Lake Ruhondo from its rooms and main lobby, which features stonework detailing, wooden flooring, and Rwandan art. The cozy lobby, with its woven wicker furniture and warming fire, exudes a charming safari ambiance.

After a day of gorilla trekking Rwanda, you can unwind at the spa or relax in one of the 10 bandas, each named after local lakes and decorated with locally crafted stonework, clay, and wooden furnishings. The lodge provides six bandas with double beds, two with twin beds, and two deluxe bandas with separate living areas for families. Rooms feature mosquito netting, a working fireplace, and ensuite bathrooms with modern amenities. The lodge’s grounds are vibrant with Rwanda’s avian species, mongooses, and butterflies, enhancing the immersive experience in this luxurious primate getaway.

Day 5: Volcanoes National Park

Included Activities: One gorilla trek
Optional Activities: Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Tour & Dian Fossey Grave Shrine Tour, Mount Karisimbi or Bisoke Hike, Musanze Caves & Buhanga Forest Tour
Accommodation: Virunga Lodge (Luxury), Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Upmarket) Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge (Midrange), Garden Place Hotel (Standard), Muhabura Hotel (Budget)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Volcanoes National Park

The park is located in Kinigi in Northern Rwanda and in a Gorilla Trekking Destination shared by Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda, covering 160 square kilometers of diverse landscapes, including evergreen forests, bamboo groves, tropical rainforests, and volcanic peaks.

Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, which roam between the three countries in search of food like bamboo shoots and wild fruit. With a Gorilla permit and guidance from rangers, you can hike the park’s trails to observe these Mountain Gorilla.

Day 6: Transfer From Volcanoes National Park (Kinigi) To Nyungwe National Park

Optional Activities: Swamp and waterfall hikes, bird and canopy walks
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House (Luxury), Nyungwe Top View Hotel (Midrange), Gisakura Guest House (Budget)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

One&Only Nyungwe House | A Featured Luxury Accommodation

One&Only Nyungwe House, formerly Nyungwe Forest Lodge, is a luxurious retreat nestled near Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda. Located within the Gisakura tea plantation, this boutique resort offers breathtaking views of the lush landscape and features a heated infinity pool, a fitness center, and a spa.

The accommodation includes 24 elegantly designed rooms across 6 villas, with 15 king-sized beds and 7 twin beds, plus 2 Presidential Suites with a Jacuzzi in one. Rooms are crafted from brick and wood, adorned with Rwandan art, and include amenities such as a private deck, a fireplace, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV. Each ensuite bathroom is equipped with double basins, a bathtub, walk-in shower, and bidet.

Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking or Canopy Walk

Included Activities: Chimpanzee tracking at 07:30 hours
Optional Activities: Swamp and waterfall hikes, bird and canopy walks
Accommodation: Nyungwe Forest Lodge (Luxury), Nyungwe Top View Hotel (Midrange), Gisakura Guest House (Budget)
Meal Plan: Dinner

Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park, located in southwestern Rwanda within the Albertine Rift eco-region, is a breathtaking destination for your primate adventure in Africa. Spanning 970 square kilometers, this mid-elevation forest reserve is one of the last of its kind on the continent and a critical conservation area. It boasts a rich diversity of endemic flora and fauna, including a remarkable array of 310 bird species.

Birdwatchers in Nyungwe National Park will delight in spotting rare and beautiful species such as white-headed wood hoopoes, paradise flycatchers, purple-breasted sunbirds, Ruwenzori turacos, and red-collared mountain babblers. The park’s lush woodlands provide a spectacular backdrop for exploring its diverse and vibrant ecosystem.

Day 8: Transfer From Nyungwe National Park To Kigali With Your Private Guide

Included Activities: Breakfast
Optional Tour Activities: Kigali Genocide Memorial, Natural History Museum – Kandt House, The Dancing Pots, Caplaki Handicrafts Cooperative, Art Galleries – Inema, Ivuka & Niyo

End of 8 Days Best Safari Holidays in Rwanda by Njagi SMC

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are there guided tours available in Nyungwe Forest, and how can I book them?
Yes, guided tours are available in Nyungwe Forest and are highly recommended to fully explore and understand the park’s unique ecosystem. You can book guided treks, chimpanzee tracking, and birdwatching tours through Njagi Safari, A trusted and accredited tour operator. It’s advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and secure your preferred tour dates.
What is unique about Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda?
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is celebrated for its unique combination of attributes. It is one of the few places where visitors can track and observe endangered mountain gorillas. The park features striking volcanic landscapes with five of the Virunga Mountains’ volcanoes, offering dramatic treks and diverse ecosystems that support wildlife such as golden monkeys and various bird species. Additionally, the park holds cultural significance with local communities like the Batwa pygmies, and the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, Dian Fossey Grave Shrine, and the Musanze Caves and Buhanga Forest.
What activities are available in Nyungwe Forest National Park besides chimpanzee tracking?
In Nyungwe Forest National Park, besides Chimpanzee Tracking Nyungwe, you can enjoy a range of activities including the thrilling Canopy Walk, which offers stunning views of the forest from above, and guided Nature Walks or birding expeditions to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna. These activities provide a unique perspective on the park’s rich biodiversity and are tailored to suit different interests and fitness levels.
What is Akagera National Park known for?
Akagera National Park in Rwanda is renowned for its diverse landscapes and rich wildlife, including the Big Five—lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhinoceros. The park’s varied terrains, such as savannahs, wetlands, and lakes, support a wide range of species and offer stunning scenery.
It’s also a prime birdwatching destination, home to over 500 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork. Akagera’s conservation successes, including the reintroduction of the black Rhino and sustainable tourism practices, enhance its appeal. Visitors can enjoy game drives and boat safaris on Lake Ihema, making it a prime spot for exploring Rwanda’s natural beauty.
How many days are enough for Rwanda?
For a well-rounded visit to Rwanda, 5 to 8 days is ideal. Spend 2-3 days in Volcanoes National Park tracking mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, and exploring volcanic peaks. Allocate 2 days to Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks.
Dedicate 1-2 days in Akagera National Park for game drives and boat safaris. Include 1 day in Kigali to visit the Genocide Memorial and explore the city. On the 8th day, you can prepare for departure, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience of Rwanda’s wildlife, natural beauty, and culture.