7 Days Rwanda Safari

Day by day

1. Rwanda1 night
2. Akagera National Park1 night
3. Volcanoes National Park3 nights
4. Lake Bunyonyi1 night
5. Kigali1 night

1. 1

   Day 1 · Rwanda

   Arrival in Rwanda and Transfer to Akagera with Boat Cruise

   On arrival in Rwanda, you will be met by your guide and transferred to Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of the country. After checking into your lodge, the afternoon is reserved for a boat cruise on Lake Ihema. This activity allows you to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species such as kingfishers and African fish eagles. The cruise also provides views of elephants and antelopes coming to drink along the shores. It is a relaxing way to begin your safari, combining wildlife viewing with the calm atmosphere of the lake. Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge inside or near Akagera complete the day

   
2. 2

   Day 2 · Akagera National Park

   Early Game Drive and Big Five Hunt

   The second day begins with an early morning game drive through Akagera’s savannah landscapes. This is the best time to spot predators such as lions and leopards, as well as herds of buffalo, elephants, and antelopes. The park is also home to rhinos, completing the Big Five safari experience. Your guide will drive through different sections of the park, including open plains and wooded areas, maximizing chances of sightings. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting species like the shoebill stork and papyrus gonolek. After several hours of wildlife viewing, you return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the evening, you can enjoy another short drive or simply rest at the lodge.

   
3. 3

   Day 3 · Volcanoes National Park

   Transfer to Volcanoes and Cultural Tour

   After breakfast, you depart Akagera and drive northwest to Volcanoes National Park. The journey takes you through Kigali and continues into the highlands, offering views of rolling hills and rural communities. On arrival in Musanze, you check into your lodge and later take part in a cultural tour. This includes visiting local villages, learning traditional dances, and exploring Rwandan heritage through storytelling and crafts. The cultural experience provides insight into the lives of communities living near the park and highlights their role in conservation. Dinner and overnight stay near Volcanoes National Park prepare you for gorilla trekking the next day.

   
4. 4

   Day 4 · Volcanoes National Park

   Gorilla Trekking and Visit to Dian Fossey Tomb

   Day four begins with an early briefing at Volcanoes National Park headquarters before heading into the forest for gorilla trekking. The trek can take several hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but once found, you spend one hour observing their behavior. After the trek, you return to the lodge for lunch and later visit the Dian Fossey Tomb and Research Center. This site honors her conservation work and provides insight into the history of gorilla protection in Rwanda. The hike to the tomb also offers views of volcanic landscapes and forest vegetation. Dinner and overnight stay near the park complete the day.

   
5. 5

   Day 5 · Volcanoes National Park

   Golden Monkey Trekking and Relaxation at Lake kivu

   The fifth day begins with golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. These rare primates live in bamboo forests and are known for their playful behavior and lively social groups. The trek is shorter compared to gorilla trekking, making it accessible to most travelers, yet it provides excellent opportunities for photography and observation. After spending time with the monkeys, you transfer to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s great lakes located along Rwanda’s western border. The lake is ideal for relaxation, offering calm waters, sandy shores, and opportunities for boat rides or swimming. In the evening, you settle into a lakeside lodge where you can enjoy fresh fish dishes and peaceful views. This day combines active trekking with leisure by the lake

   
6. 6

   Day 6 · Lake Bunyonyi

   Congo Trail Hike and Village Tours

   On day six, you take part in the Congo Trail hike, which explores the landscapes and communities around Lake Bunyonyi and the border region. The hike offers views of terraced hills, farmlands, and traditional homesteads. Along the way, you visit villages where you interact with locals, learning about their farming practices, crafts, and daily life. The experience highlights the cultural richness of the area and provides opportunities to support community initiatives. The hike is moderate, suitable for most travelers, and combines physical activity with cultural immersion. Dinner and overnight stay at Lake Bunyonyi prepare you for the final day of the tour.

   
7. 7

   Day 7 · Kigali

   Return to Kigali for City Tour and Departure

   The final day begins with breakfast at Lake Bunyonyi before driving back to Kigali. On arrival, you take part in a city tour that includes visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and art centers. The tour provides insight into Rwanda’s history, resilience, and modern development. Depending on your flight schedule, you may also enjoy shopping for souvenirs or relaxing at a café. Your guide ensures timely transfer to Kigali International Airport for departure. This seven-day tour combines wildlife, primates, culture, and relaxation, offering a complete Rwanda safari experience