Signature Safari

6 Day Rwanda Big Five Safari in Akagera, Gorillas and Lake Kivu

The Experience

The 6 Day Rwanda Big Five Safari in Akagera, Gorillas and Lake Kivu is a well-rounded package that combines wildlife, culture, and relaxation. Starting with Akagera National Park, travelers enjoy a night game drive and a full day focused on the Big Five, complemented by a nature walk and boat safari on Lake Ihema. The tour then shifts to Volcanoes National Park for chimpanzee and gorilla trekking, paired with cultural visits that highlight local traditions and conservation efforts. Lake Kivu offers a peaceful break with community walks and plantation visits, adding social and cultural depth. The final day in Kigali includes historical sites, markets, and art centers, giving travelers a complete view of Rwanda’s past and present. This safari balances adventure, culture, and comfort in six structured days.

Duration6Days/5Days

Price00

DestinationsRwanda

Ideal ForCouples, Wildlife Fans

Overview

The Journey

Day by Day

Day01

Day 1: Arrival, Transfer to Akagera and Night Game Drive

On arrival in Rwanda, you will be transferred to Akagera National Park. After settling in, the evening is reserved for a night game drive. This activity gives you a chance to see nocturnal animals such as hyenas, leopards, and bush babies. The drive is guided with spotlights to help locate wildlife in the dark. It is important to carry warm clothing as temperatures drop at night. This first day introduces you to Rwanda’s savannah wildlife and sets the tone for the safari.

AccommodationLodge Near Akagera

Day02

Day 2: Game Drive for Big Five, Nature Walk and Boat Safari

The second day begins with a morning game drive focused on spotting the Big Five lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. Guides take you through different sections of the park to maximize sightings. Later, a guided nature walk allows you to learn about smaller animals, plants, and birdlife. In the afternoon, you enjoy a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where hippos, crocodiles, and water birds are common. This combination of activities ensures a full day of wildlife experiences both on land and water

AccommodationLodge near Akagera

Day03

Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes for Cultural Tour Experience

After breakfast, you leave Akagera and drive to Volcanoes National Park. The transfer takes several hours, passing through Rwanda’s countryside and offering views of rolling hills and local villages. On arrival, you take part in a cultural tour where communities share traditions, dances, and conservation stories. This visit highlights how tourism supports local livelihoods and gives travelers a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s culture. The day balances travel with cultural learning, preparing you for gorilla trekking the next morning

AccommodationLodge near Volcanoes

Day04

Day 4: Trek Gorillas and Relaxation at Lake Kivu

Day four is dedicated to gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. With your permit secured, you join a guided trek to locate a gorilla family in the forest. The trek may take several hours depending on their movement, but it provides a rare chance to observe gorillas in their natural habitat. After the trek, you transfer to Lake Kivu for relaxation. The lake offers a peaceful setting where you can unwind, enjoy the views, and recover from the physical activity of trekking

AccommodationLodge at lake Kivu

Day05

Day 5: Take a Community Walk and Local Plantations and Return to Kigali

On this day, you take a guided community walk around Lake Kivu, visiting local plantations and learning about farming practices. This activity connects you with local people and shows how agriculture supports daily life in Rwanda. After the walk, you begin the drive back to Kigali. The return trip is well-paced, allowing time for short stops if needed. This day adds cultural and social value to the safari, complementing the wildlife experiences of the earlier days

AccommodationHotel in Kigali

Day06

Day 6: Visit Historical Sites, Markets and Departure

The final day is spent exploring Kigali through a guided city tour. You visit historical sites such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and art centers. This provides insight into Rwanda’s history, resilience, and modern culture. The tour is relaxed, giving you time to shop or enjoy local food before departure. Transfers are well coordinated to the airport, ensuring a smooth end to your safari. This day completes the trip by combining wildlife, culture, and history into one package.

What's Included

Gorilla permit ($1500 per person)

Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 6

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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