Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your guide and transferred to your accommodation. Once you’ve settled in, it’s time to explore Rwanda’s lively capital. Begin with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, offering deep insights into Rwanda’s history and the incredible resilience of its people. Then, dive into the city’s vibrant energy by exploring local markets, cultural hubs, and art galleries, immersing yourself in Kigali’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
After breakfast, start your journey to Akagera National Park, a picturesque 3-4 hour drive through Rwanda’s stunning countryside. Upon reaching the park, check in at your lodge located within or near the park’s boundaries. After a relaxing lunch, get ready for your first safari experience with an afternoon game drive, guided by seasoned rangers. As you explore the park’s varied terrain, keep an eye out for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of bird species.
Set out early for a full day of wildlife exploration in Akagera National Park. After breakfast, you’ll venture into the park’s diverse habitats, from open savannahs to serene lakes and marshlands. This full-day game drive gives you the opportunity to spot a wide range of animals, including lions, leopards, hyenas, zebras, impalas, and more. Break for a picnic lunch in one of the park’s designated spots, surrounded by its stunning natural beauty. Continue your adventure in the afternoon, maximizing your chances of encountering even more of Akagera’s wildlife wonders.
After breakfast, bid farewell to Akagera as you embark on a 4-5 hour drive to Volcanoes National Park. Enjoy the changing scenery as you pass through Rwanda’s rolling hills and lush countryside. Upon arrival, check into your lodge near the park and spend the rest of the day unwinding and preparing for the thrilling gorilla trek planned for the following day.
Prepare for an unforgettable day of gorilla trekking. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters to meet your guide and receive a briefing on trekking protocols. You’ll then venture into the dense rainforest, tracking a habituated gorilla family. The trek, which can last anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, will be rewarded with a precious hour spent observing these majestic creatures in their natural surroundings. After this awe-inspiring encounter, return to your lodge to relax. If time permits, you can visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to experience Rwandan traditions, music, and dance.
After breakfast, set off for a golden monkey trekking experience in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. Spend time observing and photographing these energetic primates as they leap through the trees. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Rwandan culture with a visit to a local village. Engage in traditional crafts, learn about the community’s way of life, and enjoy music and dance performances, offering a deeper connection to the country’s rich heritage.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your final morning in Rwanda. If your schedule allows, take some extra time to explore more of Kigali, visit local markets for last-minute souvenirs, or simply absorb the city’s lively atmosphere. Later, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your flight, bidding farewell to the land of a thousand hills and leaving with memories that will last a lifetime.
