Signature Safari

5 Day Rwanda Wildlife Safari and Gorillas

The Experience

This 5 Day Rwanda Wildlife Safari and Gorillas combines game viewing, cultural experiences, and gorilla trekking into one well-balanced itinerary. Starting with arrival in Kigali and transfer to Akagera National Park, travelers enjoy classic safari drives and a boat excursion on Lake Ihema, spotting diverse wildlife. The adventure continues with a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, paired with a cultural tour that highlights Rwanda’s traditions. The highlight is gorilla trekking, followed by a visit to the Twin Lakes for relaxation and photography. The final day offers a Kigali city tour, including markets and historical sites, before departure. This safari blends wildlife, culture, and convenience, making it ideal for travelers seeking both gorillas and broader Rwanda experiences in a short timeframe

Duration5Days/4Nights

Price00

DestinationsRwanda

Ideal ForCouples, Wildlife Fans

Overview

The Journey

Day by Day

Day01

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Akagera National Park

On arrival in Rwanda, you will be met at Kigali International Airport and transferred to Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of the country. The drive takes about two and a half hours, passing through rolling hills and rural landscapes. Once inside the park, you will check into your lodge and settle in for the evening. Akagera is known for its savannah plains, lakes, and diverse wildlife, making it an excellent introduction to Rwanda’s safari experience. Depending on arrival time, you may enjoy a short evening drive or relax at the lodge. This day focuses on settling in, preparing for the adventure ahead, and experiencing the calm atmosphere of Akagera before the full safari begins.

AccommodationLodge in Akagera

Day02

Day 2: Experience Game Drives and Animal Viewing and Boat Safari

Your second day is dedicated to exploring Akagera through morning and afternoon game drives. The park is home to the Big Five, including lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos, along with giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Morning drives are ideal for spotting predators as they are more active at dawn. After lunch, you will enjoy a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species can be seen. This combination of land and water activities provides a complete wildlife experience. The day ends with a relaxed evening at your lodge, where you can reflect on the sightings and prepare for the next stage of the safari

AccommodationLodge in Akagera

Day03

Day 3: Proceed to Volcanoes and Cultural Tour

After breakfast, you will leave Akagera and drive towards Volcanoes National Park in the northwest. The journey takes about five to six hours, passing through Kigali and scenic countryside. On arrival in Musanze, you will check into your lodge near the park. In the afternoon, you will take part in a cultural tour, visiting local communities to learn about traditional practices, music, and dance. This experience provides insight into Rwanda’s heritage and complements the wildlife aspect of the safari. The day balances travel with cultural immersion, giving you a deeper understanding of the country before the highlight of gorilla trekking

AccommodationLodge near volcanoes

Day04

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking and Twin Lakes

This day is the highlight of the safari, with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for briefing and group allocation. Trekking can take between two to six hours depending on gorilla location, but the reward is spending one hour with a habituated gorilla family. After the trek, you will return to your lodge for lunch and rest. In the afternoon, you will visit the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, known for their calm waters and beautiful surroundings. The lakes offer opportunities for photography and cultural interactions with nearby villages. This day combines adventure with relaxation

AccommodationLodge Near volcanoes

Day05

Day 5: City Tour and Markets and Departure

On your final day, you will drive back to Kigali for a city tour before departure. The tour includes visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local art galleries, and vibrant markets where you can shop for crafts and souvenirs. Walking through the markets provides a chance to interact with local vendors and understand Rwanda’s daily life. After lunch, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your flight home. This day ensures you leave Rwanda with both wildlife and cultural experiences, making the safari complete. It balances sightseeing with practical arrangements for departure, closing the trip on a meaningful note

What's Included

Gorilla permit ($1500 per person)

Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 5

Ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle

English-speaking professional driver-guide

Accommodation

Meals as specified (full board: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Bottled drinking water in the vehicle

All relevant government taxes and fees

Not Included

International flights to/from Kigali

Rwanda visa

Travel insurance (medical and evacuation coverage mandatory)

Domestic flight from Kigali to Volcanoes (if chosen instead of road)

Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff

Alcoholic and soft drinks

Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls)

Optional activities not listed in the itinerary

Any meals not explicitly stated as included

Begin Your Adventure

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