10 Days Gorillas, Chimps and Wildlife Safari Rwanda

Indulge in the ultimate luxury adventure with Rwakabunga Safaris on this 10 day Gorillas, Chimps and Wildlife Safari in Rwanda. This exceptional journey takes you through the most iconic destinations of the Land of a Thousand Hills, offering intimate encounters with mountain gorillas, playful chimpanzees, and spectacular savannah wildlife. From the open plains of Akagera National Park, to the lush rainforests of Nyungwe, the serene shores of Lake Kivu, and the misty peaks of Volcanoes National Park, every step of this itinerary blends thrilling adventure with refined comfort. Expect private guided experiences, exclusive lodges, fine dining, and seamless service throughout your safari.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a Rwakabunga Safaris representative and transferred to your luxury hotel in the city. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a guided Kigali city orientation with visits to art galleries, the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and vibrant local markets. In the evening, settle into your hotel and savor a fine dining dinner as you prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Accommodation options: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven, Radisson Blu Kigali
Meals: (Dinner)

Day 2: Kigali City Tour – Transfer to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, embark on a guided city tour that highlights Kigali’s vibrant culture, modern architecture, and historical landmarks. Later, depart for Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah reserve. On arrival, check into your lodge, enjoy lunch, and head out for an evening game drive where you may spot giraffes, zebras, and elephants against the backdrop of the setting sun. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation options: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Full Day Game Drives in Akagera

Today is dedicated to exploring Akagera in depth. Begin with a sunrise game drive across the park’s rolling plains, woodlands, and lakeshores. Look out for lions, rhinos, and a wide variety of antelope species. Enjoy a bush picnic lunch before continuing with afternoon wildlife viewing. End the day with a sundowner experience at your lodge, followed by a gourmet dinner.

Accommodation options: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Boat Safari on Lake Ihema – Return to Kigali

In the morning, take a relaxing boat safari on Lake Ihema where hippos, crocodiles, and water birds can be seen up close. Afterward, return to your lodge for breakfast before departing for Kigali. Arrive in time for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure with optional spa treatments, shopping, or cultural explorations. Dinner will be served at your luxury hotel.

Accommodation options: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven, Hotel des Mille Collines
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Kigali – Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. En route, visit the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza and the Ethnographic Museum in Huye to gain insight into Rwanda’s heritage. Arrive in Nyungwe in the afternoon and check into your luxury lodge surrounded by rainforest views. The evening is free for relaxation and leisure.

Accommodation options: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe

Rise early for an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking experience. Guided by expert rangers, you will hike into the forest and follow the calls of the chimpanzees until you find them. Watching them play, groom, and interact in their natural environment is a thrilling highlight of your safari. Return to your lodge for a hearty lunch and spend the afternoon enjoying nature walks, spa treatments, or relaxation by the lodge’s facilities.

Accommodation options: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Canopy Walk and Nature Trails

After breakfast, enjoy the famous Nyungwe canopy walk, a suspended walkway high above the forest that offers spectacular views of the rainforest canopy. Spot primates, birds, and butterflies as you stroll along this unique trail. In the afternoon, you may opt for a guided nature hike, a tea plantation visit, or relaxation at your lodge.

Accommodation options: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Transfer to Lake Kivu – Leisure on the Shores

Depart Nyungwe after breakfast and drive to the serene shores of Lake Kivu. Arrive at your lakeside resort in time for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing by the water, swimming, or enjoying optional boat rides. Dinner will be served with panoramic lake views as you unwind in luxury.

Accommodation options: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Paradise Malahide
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Lake Kivu – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Spend a leisurely morning at Lake Kivu before transferring to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Arrive at your luxury lodge with views of the Virunga Mountains and enjoy a relaxed afternoon. You may choose to visit a local community or simply unwind in preparation for the next day’s trek.

Accommodation options: Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park – Departure

The highlight of your safari has arrived. After breakfast, attend a briefing at the park headquarters before beginning your gorilla trekking adventure. The hike takes you through lush forests until you find your allocated gorilla family. Spend an unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants before returning to your lodge for lunch. Later, transfer back to Kigali for a farewell dinner and onward departure, marking the end of your 10 day luxury safari.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 10 Days Gorillas, Chimps and Wildlife Safari Rwanda.