8-Day Best of Rwanda Safari

In eight days this itinerary covers everything Rwanda is famous for: a private gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, Big Five game drives in Akagera, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, and Kigali’s museums and markets. Gorilla permits, park entry, guiding and lodging are included, making it our fullest look at the Land of a Thousand Hills.

8 Day Best of Rwanda Safari | Luxury Rwanda Gorilla Trek | 8 Days Rwanda primate safari | Rwanda Gorilla Trek from Kigali|

Combo Expedition · Rwanda · Volcanoes National Park · 8 days · Moderate

8- Day Best of Rwanda Safari

Expedition Overview

Over the course of 8 days, you’ll explore Rwanda’s most iconic national parks, including Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, and Lake Kivu. Whether you’re trekking to encounter majestic mountain gorillas, spotting wildlife on game drives, or simply relaxing by the shores of Lake Kivu, this safari offers the perfect balance of adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Akagera National Park

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and embark on a scenic drive (approximately 2.5 hours) to Akagera National Park. On your way to the park, enjoy the rolling hills of Rwanda and watch the landscape change as you approach the savannah region. After settling into your lodge, enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ihema, where you may spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife such as the African fish eagle. As the sun sets over the lake, you’ll feel the quiet serenity of Akagera. In the afternoon, go on a game drive through the park to spot wildlife like giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and elephants. The park’s diverse landscapes provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Accommodation Options: Luxury: Akagera Game Lodge – With breathtaking views of Lake Ihema, this lodge is the perfect place to unwind. Mid-range: Ruzizi Tented Lodge – A charming eco-lodge offering comfort and scenic views by the lake. Budget: Akagera Rhino Lodge – A cozy and affordable option near the park entrance. Meal: Dinner

Day 2: Full Day Game Drive in Akagera & Return to Kigali

After breakfast, you’ll head out for a morning game drive through Akagera. The park is known for its varied wildlife, and the morning is the best time to see animals like waterbucks, buffaloes, and impalas as they graze peacefully in the early morning light. Later, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park before continuing your afternoon game drive, where you may encounter the park’s elusive predators, including lions and leopards, or observe large herds of elephants along the savannah. After your adventure, you’ll transfer back to Kigali for a relaxed evening. You can enjoy a light dinner or explore the vibrant city before heading to your hotel. Accommodation in Kigali: Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel – A luxurious hotel offering modern amenities and a central location. Mid-range: The Manor Hotel – Comfortable and conveniently located, with great service. Budget: The 2000 Hotel – A budget-friendly, well-located hotel in the heart of Kigali. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: City Tour of Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, you will start the day with a guided city tour of Kigali. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you’ll learn about the history and impact of the 1994 genocide, followed by visits to other significant landmarks such as the Nyamata Church and Presidential Palace Museum. After lunch, transfer to Volcanoes National Park (approximately 2.5 hours drive) for an unforgettable wildlife experience surrounded by the towering volcanoes. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Accommodation near Volcanoes National Park: Luxury: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge – An upscale lodge offering stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Mid-range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge – Comfortably nestled in nature, providing easy access to trekking starting points. Budget: Muhavura Lodge – A cozy lodge that offers comfort and excellent views of the surrounding mountains. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking & Visit to Iby’iwachu Cultural Village

After breakfast at your lodge, you’ll meet your guide and head to the park headquarters for a briefing on the rules and guidelines for gorilla trekking. You’ll also learn which family of gorillas you’ll be trekking to, as each group is tracked separately. Once the briefing is complete, you’ll start your trek through the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park in search of your assigned gorilla family. The trek could last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on where the gorillas are located. When you finally encounter them, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat. After your trek, visit Iby’iwachu Cultural Village. Here, you’ll be immersed in Rwanda’s rich cultural traditions, watching traditional dances, listening to storytelling, and even participating in activities like drumming or weaving. It’s a wonderful way to reflect on the day’s adventure and learn more about Rwanda’s heritage. Accommodation: Luxury: Virunga Lodge – With panoramic views of the volcanoes and nearby lakes, it’s the ideal place to unwind after your gorilla trek. Mid-range: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge – Close to the park entrance and comfortable for your post-trek relaxation. Budget: Muhavura Lodge – A relaxed, budget-friendly option near Volcanoes National Park. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Golden Monkey Trekking & Transfer to Lake Kivu

After breakfast, you’ll head out for golden monkey trekking. These playful monkeys are fun to watch as they leap through the bamboo trees in the park. After your golden monkey encounter, enjoy a scenic lunch, then transfer to Lake Kivu, where the serene beauty of the lake awaits you. The drive will take you through lush hills and small villages, and once you reach Kibuye, a town nestled on the shores of Lake Kivu, you’ll be greeted by stunning views. After check-in at your accommodation, relax and enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful location. Accommodation at Lake Kivu: Luxury: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel – A peaceful retreat with panoramic views of the lake, perfect for a relaxing stay. Mid-range: Kivu Marina Bay – A comfortable hotel offering easy access to the lake and a relaxed atmosphere. Budget: Bethanie Hotel – An affordable option with lovely views of the lake. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6: Activities Around Lake Kivu & Transfer to Nyungwe Forest

After breakfast, you will spend the morning indulging in optional activities such as a boat ride on Lake Kivu to explore the islands or visit the Ndaba Falls for some light hiking. For those seeking relaxation, you can simply take in the tranquil beauty of the lake from your lodge. After lunch, you’ll drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park (approximately 4 hours), which is known for its biodiversity, particularly its primates. Accommodation in Nyungwe Forest: Luxury: Nyungwe Forest Lodge – A luxurious retreat with forest views and exceptional service. Mid-range: Top Hill View Hotel – Perfect for those looking for comfort and scenic surroundings. Budget: Gisakura Lodge – Cozy and affordable, located near the park entrance for easy access to the trails. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk

After breakfast, you’ll begin your day with a thrilling chimpanzee trek in Nyungwe Forest, home to one of Africa’s largest groups of chimpanzees. Trek through the dense forest as you search for these fascinating primates. Once found, you’ll spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat. After lunch, head to the Canopy Walk, a thrilling experience suspended high in the forest, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the rainforest below and might even spot some forest wildlife. Accommodation: Luxury: Nyungwe Forest Lodge – Offering exceptional luxury and proximity to the park’s highlights. Mid-range: Top Hill View Hotel – Providing comfort with breathtaking views of the forest. Budget: Gisakura Lodge – A cozy, budget-friendly option near the park. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8: Trek Other Primates, Visit Tea Factory & Return to Kigali

On your final day, you’ll take a trek to see other primates like the L’Hoest’s monkeys and Angola colobus in Nyungwe Forest. Afterward, you’ll visit a local tea factory to see how Rwanda’s famous tea is harvested and processed. Finally, you’ll begin your drive back to Kigali, where your safari adventure ends. Meal: Breakfast & Lunch

Price

From $5,571 per person

  • 1 traveler: $8,429 per person
  • 2 travelers: $6,714 per person
  • 3 travelers: $6,143 per person
  • 4 travelers: $5,857 per person
  • 5 travelers: $5,686 per person
  • 6 travelers: $5,571 per person
  • 7 travelers: $5,571 per person
  • 8 travelers: $5,571 per person

Prices are per person in USD and vary with group size. Contact us for current availability and gorilla permit booking.

What's Included

  • Included Airport Transfers
  • Car hire
  • Services of an English-speaking guide
  • Refreshments like water
  • All accommodation & Meals
  • All accommodation & Meals
  • All activities
  • All Taxes /VAT
  • Chimpanzee permit
  • Gorilla Trekking Permit

What's Not Included

  • Tips and Gratuities
  • All items for personal nature
  • International flights
  • Alcoholic drinks

Page Sections

  • Rwanda, Done Properly
  • Gorillas, Big Five & Chimpanzees
  • Day-by-Day Itinerary
  • Permits, Lodges & What’s Included
  • The Best Time for an 8-Day Rwanda Safari

Related Safaris & Guides

For the full itinerary, live pricing and availability, book directly: 8-Day Best of Rwanda Safari on Lux Gorilla Safaris.