Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and City Tour

Your 9 Days Rwanda Wildlife safari begins upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport. Here you will be warmly welcomed by our hospitable and experienced company guide, your drive guide to be throughout this thrilling Rwanda wildlife adventure.

He will provide you with a brief introduction about Rwanda, specifically about your safari, what to expect, and try to make you feel at home. After that brief introduction, you will be transferred to your pre-booked accommodations in the heart of Kigali City where you will relax, refresh, and prepare for an exciting Kigali City Tour.

Kigali City is Rwanda’s vibrant capital and is one of the Cleanest Cities in Africa features a diversity of tourist attractions ranging from vibrant local markets, memorial sites, art galleries, and recreation centers, among others offering a great introduction to Rwanda tourism. A Kigali city tour will offer you a chance to explore some of these attractions to appreciate the beauty of Rwanda.

Kigali City Tour

After checking in and refreshing your hotel, you will embark on a Kigali city tour of Kigali. This is led by your guide, a local guide who is well-versed with the road networks to charming tourist destinations in Kigali.

He will take you to the Kigali Genocide Memorial where you will learn about Rwanda’s dark history caused as a result of the 1994 genocide. This site offers educational exhibits for a deeper understanding of the country’s journey towards healing and reconciliation from the tragic event.

The Kigali City tour will also take you to visit Kimironko Market, one of the bustling local markets in Rwanda. Here you will witness the daily life of the Rwandees and also have an opportunity to buy fresh garden products and handcrafts.

Lastly, you will visit the Inema Art Center, a contemporary art gallery in Rwanda showcasing the remarkable works of local Rwandan artists. It is an ideal destination for those eager to explore and immerse themselves in Rwanda’s vibrant art scene. After your city tour, you will head back to your lodges where you will relax and prepare for the exciting adventures ahead.

We offer midrange accommodation options which include Radisson Blu Hotel, The Manor Hotel, and the Kigali Serena Hotel

Meals Expcted on this day include lunch and dinner. These will include international and local cuisines. Rwandan local dishes to try out include Ugali, Ibirayi, and Isombe.

---

Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park and Visit Iby’iwacu Cultural Village and Musanze Caves

After an early breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, an iconic tourist destination famous for its mountain gorillas. This is situated in the Virunga Mountain Range, Northern province of Rwanda, in Musanze district.

It is approximately a two to three-hour drive from Kigali city to the park. This journey takes you through the countryside’s stunning sceneries which include Lush rolling hills, vibrant villages, and farms. Upon arrival, you will check into your accommodations where you will relax and prepare for the afternoon adventures.

Visit to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village

In the afternoon, you will head to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to experience traditional Rwandan culture. This cultural village offers an authentic look into the way of life of the Banyarwanda people.

Here you will participate in cultural activities such as traditional dances, music performances, handcraft making, and preparing local foods, among others offering deep insights into Rwanda’s culture.

Visit to Musanze Caves

Following a visit to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village will be a visit to Musanze caves, found at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes. Musanze caves were formed thousands of years ago as a result of volcanic eruptions.

These caves are one of the major attractions of Musanze District, captivating adventurers and nature lovers alike. Musanze cave explorations are led by local guides who offer valuable insights into the formation of these spectacular caves and their cultural significance to the local people.

After this long day filled with exciting adventures, you will return to your lodges which hold you in comfort through the night as you prepare for the adventures waiting ahead. Meals expected on this day include Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Midrange Accommodation options include Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, or Le Bambou Lodge.

---

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Today is one of the highlights of your 9 Days Rwanda Wildlife safari, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, you will transferred to the park headquarters in Kinigi for a pregorilla briefing. You will the lodge with a packed lunch, remember to carry enough drinking water and snacks to keep your energy levels high while on this thrilling Rwanda wildlife adventure.

At the park headquarters, you will attend a simple briefing from a professional park guide about the safety rules and guidelines to adhere to while in the mountain gorilla natural habitats. After the briefing, you will be divided into manageable groups of at least 8 individuals and each will be assigned a specific gorilla family to track.

A mountain gorilla trek through volcan0es National Park takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours and sometimes even more than that depending on the location of the assigned gorilla family on that day. Once you have encountered the gorillas, yu have a standard time of 1 hour, observing them going about their daily routines in their natural habitats.

Travel to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After the trek, enjoy a packed lunch before transferring to Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in southwestern Rwanda. It is about a 5 t 6 hour drive from Volcanoes to Nyungwe Forest National park, a relatively longer journey filled with relaxing scenic views and stops at captivating spots or to refresh. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation where you will relax as you prepare for the adventures awaiting you.

Meals: Breakfast at the lodge, packed lunch during trekking, and dinner at the hotel

---

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe Forest is one of the well preserved and oldest rainforests in Africa feature with rich biodiversity. It is home to a variety of primate species among which include the famous Chimpanzees.

Nyungwe forest is famously know for these intelligent primates and holds a significant population of them. It is home to about 500 individual chimps making it the top and best destination for chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda.

Nyungwe lense dense forests offer a magical experience while searching for the endangered chimp communities residing in them. Just like gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking is led by an armed ranger to ensure the safety of the trackers and a professional guide for an immersive experience.

Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe forest is less tiring compared to mountain gorilla tracking as chimps prefer inhabiting lowland forests making tracking easy, taking about 2 to 3 hours. After the trek, you will have lunch as you prepare for exciting canopy walks.

Canopy Walk

Canopy walks in Nyungwe Forest offer a unique perspective of the park’s diverse wildlife. They are carried out on a 70 metres high suspended bridge offering great views of the forest canopy and wildlife that is hard to spot on the forest floor. Canopy wallsks in Nyungwe forest are both thrilling and educational offering a chance to spot wildlife including primates and bird species.

Accommodation: Nyungwe Forest Lodge or Gisakura Guesthouse

Meals: Breakfast at the lodge, packed lunch during trekking, and dinner at the lodge

---

Day 5: Transfer to Akagera National Park and Boat Safari on Lake Ihema

After breakfast, you will begin your journey to Akagera National Park, the only savannah park to spot the Big Fives in Rwanda.It is approximately a 6 to 7-hour drive from Nyungwe to Akagera National Park, a drive taking you through the countryside’s stunning landscapes.

Upon arrival in Akagera, check into your accommodation, then embark on a boat safari on Lake Ihema. This boat safari is an excellent way to spot the aquatic wildlife of Rwanda, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water wading bird species. 

Accommodation options include Ruzizi Tented Lodge or Akagera Game Lodge

Meals: Breakfast at the lodge, lunch en route, and dinner at the lodge

---

Day 6: Game Drives in Akagera and Birding, and Transfer to Gisenyi

After breakfast, embark on a morning game drive in Akagera National Park, one of the only places in Rwanda where you can see the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. The park is home to a variety of other species as well, including giraffes, zebras, and antelope. Your guide will help you spot wildlife while sharing insights about the park’s ecosystem and conservation efforts.

Birdwatching

Akagera is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 500 species recorded in the park. Spend the afternoon birding and exploring more of the park’s diverse habitats, from wetlands to woodlands, which host a range of bird species, including the rare Shoebill stork.

Transfer to Gisenyi

After the morning drive, you’ll depart from Akagera and head west to Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu, where the Congo Nile Trail begins. The distance from Akagera National Park to Gisenyi is approximately 270 kilometers (about 170 miles), and the drive typically takes around 5 to 6 hours.

The journey across Rwanda will showcase the country’s scenic hills, passing through lush farmlands and small towns along the way. You may want to make a few stops to stretch, grab a bite, or simply admire the views, as Rwanda’s landscape is breathtaking throughout the journey.

Once in Gisenyi, you’ll settle in and prepare for your exploration of the Congo Nile Trail the next day. Gisenyi offers a relaxing lakeside ambiance, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel.

Accommodation: Same as Day 5

Meals: Breakfast at the lodge, packed lunch during the safari, and dinner at the lodge

---

Day 7: Congo Nile Trail Biking or Hiking and Visit Kamiranzovu Waterfall

Begin your day with a hike or bike ride along the scenic Congo-Nile Trail that stretches along the shores of Lake Kivu. The trail offers stunning views of the lake, terraced hills, and rural villages. Whether hiking or biking, you’ll be immersed in Rwanda’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Visit Kamiranzovu Waterfall

In the afternoon, visit the Kamiranzovu Waterfall, located within Nyungwe Forest. The waterfall is a peaceful and picturesque spot, offering a great opportunity to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Return to Kigali

After your adventure, return to Kigali for your final night, where you’ll have time for rest and a farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Nyungwe Forest Lodge or Top View Hill Hotel

Meals: Breakfast at the lodge, packed lunch along the trail, and dinner at the lodge

---

Day 8: Visit Lake Kivu for Water Adventurous Activities

Lake Kivu Water Activities

Take a day trip to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. The lake is ideal for water-based activities such as kayaking, swimming, and boat rides. You can also visit Gisenyi and enjoy the scenic beaches and relaxing atmosphere of Rwanda’s largest lake.

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel or Kivu Marina Bay Resort

Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch on the lake, and dinner at the resort

---

Day 9: Visit King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza and Transfer to Kigali for Departures

Visit the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, where you’ll learn about Rwanda’s monarchy and the culture of the royal court. Explore traditional royal homes and discover Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage before transferring back to Kigali for your departure.

Distance Covered: Gisenyi to Kigali (Approx. 3 hours, 120 km)

Accommodation: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch in Nyanza, and dinner at Kigali (depending on flight time)

End of 9 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari

This 9 days Rwanda Wildlife Safari offers an unforgettable blend of wildlife adventures, cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to explore some of the most iconic destinations in Rwanda.

Whether tracking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, trekking chimpanzees in Nyungwe, or taking boat safaris in Akagera, every day brings new adventures. The perfect balance of nature, culture, and relaxation, this itinerary offers an incredible way to experience Rwanda’s many wonders.

More Info for the 9 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari

Meals Expected

• Full board accommodation (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at all lodges and hotels.
• A packed lunch is provided during game drives, trekking, or long travel days.
• Dinner in most lodges and hotels offers both local and international dishes

Transportation:

• All ground transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 safari vehicle, including fuel and driver guide.
• All park entry fees for the destinations visited, such as Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Akagera National Park, and Lake Kivu.

Park Permits and Fees:

• Gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park.
• Chimpanzee trekking permit in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
• Park entry fees for all national parks and reserves visited, including Akagera National Park and Volcanoes National Park.

Experienced Driver-Guide:

• Services of an experienced, English-speaking safari driver-guide throughout the entire trip.

Tour Includes the 9 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari:

• Park entry fees
• All accommodations as mentioned
• Meals as specified (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Bottled drinking water
• Professional guide services
• Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits
• Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle

Tour Excludes the 9 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari:

• International flights
• Travel Insurance
• Personal expenses (laundry, beverages, souvenirs)
• Tips and gratuities
• Any extra activities not included in the itinerary

Packing List to Consider:

• Comfortable, neutral-colored clothing for safari
• Long-sleeved shirts and pants for trekking
• Hiking boots and socks
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Insect repellent and sunscreen
• Binoculars and camera
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal medical kit

How to prepare for the 9 Days Rwanda Vacation