Best of Rwanda

From Kigali to Kigali
  • Rwanda
  • Wildlife and Nature
View Similar Tours

Tour Description

Enjoy a 10-day journey through Rwanda's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife.

Start your adventure in Kigali, Rwanda's lively capital nestled among rolling hills. Explore its mix of modern city life and traditional markets. 

From Kigali, travel to Akagera National Park, where expansive savannas and winding rivers are home to elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and many bird species. Enjoy thrilling wildlife safaris and relax at your tented camp. Continue south to Nyungwe National Park, a haven of lush forests and cascading waterfalls. Join a memorable chimpanzee trek guided by local experts, and take in the ancient rainforest's sights and sounds. Optional activities like the Canopy Walk offer panoramic forest views, while birdwatchers can enjoy guided birding tours. 

Relax on the peaceful shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi. Explore its serene beaches or try water activities. 

In Ruhengeri, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, prepare for a moving encounter with mountain gorillas and one of the highlights of this journey. Guided by experienced trackers, trek through lush mountains to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Wrap up your journey with fond memories of Rwanda's natural beauty, incredible wildlife encounters, and the warm hospitality that makes this East African nation so unforgettable.

Viva's Best Bits...

Enjoy picturesque drives through Rwanda's countryside, characterized by rolling hills, terraced fields, and lush forests. The journey provides stunning views and breathtaking landscapes at every turn.

A gorilla trekking experience is the unparalleled opportunity to come face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This intimate encounter allows you to observe them, creating a deeply moving, unforgettable wildlife experience.

Benefit from knowledgeable guides and trackers throughout the journey who enhance your wildlife experiences and cultural interactions, ensuring a safe and insightful exploration of Rwanda's wonders.

Tour Itinerary

Customisable ? This tour can be customised to suit your tastes and timing. Enquire here for more information.
Day 1
Kigali

Upon arrival in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, your journey begins with a seamless transition from the airport to your hotel. The cityscape of Kigali may unfold before you, showcasing its blend of modernity and traditional charm, framed by rolling hills and vibrant markets. As you settle into your hotel, you might catch glimpses of local life. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Overnight at Park Inn Kigali including breakfast.

Day 2
Akagera National Park

After breakfast at your hotel in Kigali, you embark on a journey towards Akagera National Park. The scenic drive unfolds with panoramic views of Rwanda's countryside, offering glimpses of rural life and terraced hillsides with lush vegetation. Upon arrival at Akagera National Park, you are welcomed with a refreshing lunch. Afterwards you set off on an afternoon game drive through the park. Akagera is home to a diverse variety of wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. You return to the lodge for dinner.

Overnight at Ruzizi Tented Camp on full board basis.

Day 3
Akagera National Park

Today you can enjoy a full day exploring the national park with a morning and afternoon game drive. Witness the awakening of the park's wildlife, from majestic lions and leopards to buffalo herds and graceful impalas. A boat ride on Lake Ihema, the second largest lake in Rwanda, offers a different perspective of the park, allowing you to observe waterfowl species that call the lake home.

Overnight at Ruzizi Tented Camp on full board basis.

Day 4
Nyungwe National Park

Your journey through Rwanda continues with a scenic drive towards Butare. Along the way, you stop in Nyanza to explore the historic palace of Mwami, offering a glimpse into Rwanda's royal heritage. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Butare, before continuing your adventure towards Nyungwe National Park. As you traverse the picturesque landscapes, the scenery transforms into lush forests, signaling your arrival in Nyungwe late in the afternoon. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge.

Overnight at Nyungwe Top View Lodge on full board basis.

Day 5
Nyungwe National Park

Immerse yourself in the captivating wilderness of Nyungwe National Park with an exhilarating chimpanzee trek through the forest. Guided by experienced trackers, you'll navigate the terrain in search of these intelligent primates, observing their natural behaviors in their natural habitat. After a rewarding morning trek, the afternoon offers flexibility to indulge in optional activities such as a Colobus Monkey Trek, a thrilling Canopy Walk to experience the forest from above, or a leisurely bird walk (additional costs may apply).

Overnight at Nyungwe Top View Lodge on full board basis.

Day 6
Gisenyi/ Lake Kivu

Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace, taking in the tranquil surroundings of Nyungwe National Park. Alternatively, you have the option to embark on additional adventures such as a Colobus Monkey Trek, a thrilling Canopy Walk, or a bird walk. Around mid-morning, depart from Nyungwe with a picnic lunch, embarking on a scenic journey towards Gisenyi. En route, be captivated by the breathtaking views that unfold, showcasing Rwanda's stunning landscapes. Upon arrival in Gisenyi, settle into your hotel and savor a delicious dinner.

Overnight at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel on full board basis.

Day 7
Gisenyi/ Lake Kivu

Enjoy a leisurely day at Lake Kivu, Rwanda's largest lake. Relax and unwind amidst the tranquil shores, where you can take in the serene beauty of the surroundings at your own pace. Choose to explore the nearby beaches, engage in water activities, or simply bask in the peaceful ambiance.

Overnight at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel on full board basis.

Day 8
Ruhengeri

Embark on an early morning journey to Ruhengeri, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, renowned for its endangered mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, you receive a comprehensive briefing about gorilla trekking and the conservation efforts in the park. With anticipation building, you set off on foot into the lush forest alongside experienced guides and trackers, immersing yourself in the natural habitat of these majestic creatures. The trek through dense vegetation and rugged terrain is rewarded as you encounter your assigned gorilla group. Spend a precious hour observing their behaviors. After this unforgettable wildlife encounter, trek back to the park gate on foot, where your driver awaits to transfer you to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch. The afternoon allows for relaxation and reflection on the awe-inspiring experience with Rwanda's gentle giants. Enjoy the comfort of your lodge and share stories of the day's adventure over dinner.

Overnight at Gorillas Mountain View Lodge on full board basis.

Day 9
Ruhengeri

Enjoy a day at leisure, allowing you to savor the tranquil surroundings of Volcanoes National Park at your own pace. Alternatively, you have the option to embark on another thrilling adventure, such as a second gorilla trek or a Golden Monkey Trek (additional permits required).

Overnight at Gorillas Mountain View Lodge on full board basis.

Day 10
Kilgari Departure

On your final day, after breakfast at your lodge in Ruhengeri, bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Rwanda. You are transferred back to Kigali Airport for your departure flight.

What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 9 nights comfortable accommodation
  • Included Copy 31 Accommodation Upgrades Available
Food
  • Included Copy 20 Meals as specified
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 One Gorilla Permit per person
  • Included Copy 20 One Chimpanzee Permit per person
  • Included Copy 20 Game drives and activities as specified in the itinerary
  • Included Copy 20 Services of English-speaking driver-guides on our private safaris by road
  • Included Copy 20 Transport for safari sector in 4x4 vehicles on a shared basis with max. 6 passengers per vehicle
  • Included Copy 20 Transfers as specified
  • Included Copy 20 Guaranteed window seats
  • Included Copy 20 All park fees and government taxes
  • Included Copy 7 Any visas, gratuities, drinks, porterage or insurance

Activities

  • Included Experience game drives in Akagera National Park, known for its diverse ecosystem
  • Included Venture into the lush forests of Nyungwe for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience
  • Included Unwind on the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, Rwanda's largest lake
  • Included Encounter elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras and more!
  • Included Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park
  • Included Enjoy scenic drives that traverse Rwanda's diverse landscapes
Click here for dates & prices
Duration

10 days

Price from

$7,030 USD

Per person, sharing

Daily on request