Signature Safari

6 Day Rwanda safari tour with Gorillas and Big five in Akagera

The Experience

This 6-day Rwanda safari combines gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park with classic Big Five wildlife viewing in Akagera, offering a well-rounded experience for travelers seeking both primates and savannah animals. The tour begins with arrival in Kigali and a city tour before heading east to Akagera for game drives and a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where lions, elephants, rhinos, hippos, and crocodiles are commonly seen. From Akagera, you transfer to Volcanoes National Park for a cultural visit, followed by gorilla trekking and a hike to the Dian Fossey tomb. The final day brings you back to Kigali for departure. This itinerary balances wildlife, culture, and history, making it suitable for those wanting a comprehensive Rwanda safari within a short timeframe.

Duration6Days/5Nights

Price00

DestinationsRwanda

Ideal ForCouples, Wildlife Fans

Overview

The Journey

Day by Day

Day01

Day 1: Arrival at Kigali Airport and Transfer to Hotel

On arrival at Kigali International Airport, your guide welcomes you and provides a short briefing about the safari. You are then transferred to your hotel in Kigali for check-in. Depending on arrival time, you may take a short walk around the city or relax at the hotel. This day is kept light to allow you to rest after your flight and prepare for the activities ahead. Dinner is served at the hotel, and you spend the evening relaxing in a comfortable environment

Accommodationhotel in Kigali

Day02

Day 2: Kigali City Tour and Proceed to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, you begin with a guided Kigali city tour. Highlights include the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and art centers, giving you insight into Rwanda’s history and culture. After lunch, you drive east to Akagera National Park, a journey of about two to three hours. On arrival, you check into your lodge and enjoy views of the savannah. The evening is free for relaxation, and your guide briefs you about the next day’s game drive. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.

AccommodationLodge in Akagera

Day03

Day 3: Big Five Game Drives and Boat Safari on Lake Ihema

This day is dedicated to wildlife viewing in Akagera. You start with an early morning game drive focused on spotting the Big Five lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. The drive takes you through different sections of the park, increasing chances of sightings. After lunch, you head to Lake Ihema for a boat safari. The lake is home to hippos, crocodiles, and numerous water birds. The boat ride offers close views of animals along the shores and is a relaxing way to end the day. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

AccommodationLodge in Akagera

Day04

Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park and Cultural Experience

After breakfast, you leave Akagera and drive to Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda. The transfer takes about five to six hours, passing through rolling hills and rural villages. On arrival, you check into your lodge and later take part in a cultural experience. Local communities share traditional dances, stories, and conservation practices, giving you a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s heritage. This activity supports local livelihoods and prepares you for gorilla trekking the next day. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

AccommodationLodge near Volcanoes

Day05

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking and Dian Fossey Hike

This day is the highlight of your safari. You wake early and head to Volcanoes park headquarters for a briefing. Rangers explain trekking rules before leading you into the forest to locate a gorilla family. The trek can take several hours depending on their movement. Once found, you spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat. After lunch, you take a guided hike to the Dian Fossey tomb, learning about her conservation work and dedication to protecting gorillas. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

AccommodationLodge near Volcanoes

Day06

Day 6: Return to Kigali and Departure

After breakfast, you begin the drive back to Kigali. The transfer takes about two to three hours, with opportunities to stop at local markets or viewpoints along the way. On arrival, you may take a short city tour if time allows before being dropped at the airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your Rwanda safari, combining gorillas, cultural experiences, and Big Five wildlife in Akagera.

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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