14 Days Ultimate Rwanda Safari Experience

Discover the very best of Rwanda with Rwakabunga Safaris on this 14 Days Ultimate Rwanda Safari Experience. This carefully crafted journey combines luxury comfort, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters across the Land of a Thousand Hills. From gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, and classic game drives in Akagera, to cultural immersions and relaxation along the serene shores of Lake Kivu, this itinerary is designed for travelers seeking both adventure and indulgence. Enjoy exclusive lodges, fine dining, and personalized service as you explore Rwanda’s most iconic destinations in style.

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 Kigali. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a short city tour including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local art galleries, or craft markets. In the evening, relax and enjoy a fine dining experience as you prepare for the incredible safari journey ahead.

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

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

After breakfast, embark on a guided Kigali city tour to learn about Rwanda’s culture and history. You will then drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah safari destination. Arrive at your luxury lodge in time for lunch and later enjoy an evening game drive across the park’s scenic plains. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelopes before returning for a relaxing evening at your lodge.

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

Day 3: Full Day Safari in Akagera National Park

Spend the day exploring Akagera on morning and afternoon game drives. With its diverse landscapes of open plains, lakes, and woodlands, the park offers a chance to see the Big Five, including lions and rhinos. A picnic lunch will be served in the wild, followed by more game viewing as you immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Rwanda’s only savannah park. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

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

Day 4: Morning Boat Safari – Transfer to Kigali

Enjoy an early morning boat safari on Lake Ihema where you will encounter hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife. After the boat trip, return to the lodge for breakfast before driving back to Kigali. The afternoon is at leisure with optional spa treatments or cultural visits. 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, you will embark on a scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Along the way, stop at the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza and the Ethnographic Museum in Huye for cultural insights. Arrive in Nyungwe in the afternoon, check into your luxury lodge, and unwind with stunning views of the rainforest.

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

Day 6: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest

Wake up early for an exciting chimpanzee tracking experience in the lush Nyungwe rainforest. With expert rangers, follow the calls and movements of these playful primates and spend time observing them in their natural habitat. Return to your lodge for a hearty lunch and later relax or enjoy guided nature walks around the property.

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 in Nyungwe

Start the day with a guided forest walk along the famous Nyungwe canopy walkway, suspended high above the forest floor with panoramic views of the jungle. Spot bird species, butterflies, and primates along the way. The afternoon can be spent at leisure or exploring other forest trails. Enjoy a luxury dinner and overnight 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 by the Shores

After breakfast, depart Nyungwe and drive to Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s most scenic freshwater lake. Arrive at your luxury lakeside resort and spend the afternoon relaxing by the water, taking a swim, or enjoying optional water sports. The evening is at leisure with a sunset dinner overlooking the calm waters.

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

Day 9: Lake Kivu – Leisure and Boat Excursions

Spend the day at Lake Kivu enjoying leisure activities such as a private boat ride to explore the islands, visits to fishing villages, or coffee plantation tours. Alternatively, relax at your resort with spa treatments and luxury amenities. End the day with a candlelit dinner on the lakeshore.

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

Day 10: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, drive through Rwanda’s breathtaking highlands to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Arrive at your luxury lodge nestled at the foothills of the Virunga Mountains. Enjoy lunch and later relax or take a cultural visit to a nearby village.

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

Day 11: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Today marks the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your gorilla trekking adventure. With the help of experienced trackers, you will hike through the forest until you encounter a gorilla family. Spend an unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants before returning to your lodge for relaxation and luxury dining.

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

Day 12: Golden Monkey Tracking and Cultural Encounters

After breakfast, set out to track the playful golden monkeys that inhabit the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for an authentic experience of Rwanda’s traditions, dances, and history. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

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

Day 13: Volcanoes National Park – Transfer Back to Kigali

After a relaxed breakfast, take a scenic drive back to Kigali. Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs, exploring art centers, or relaxing at your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your 14 day journey across Rwanda.

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

Day 14: Departure

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and, depending on your flight schedule, take a short Kigali city stroll or relax before your transfer to the airport. Your guide will ensure you are comfortably dropped off in time for your international departure, marking the end of your luxury safari adventure with Rwakabunga Safaris.

Meals: (Breakfast)

End of the 14 Days Ultimate Rwanda Safari Experience.