4 Days Volcanoes and Akagera National Park Safari

Are you ready to explore the natural wonders of Rwanda, from the fascinating Rwanda Gorillas to the rich biodiversity of Akagera’s wildlife? This 4 Days Volcanoes and Akagera National Park safari is designed to give you a unique opportunity to experience the best of Rwanda, a country often dubbed “The Land of a Thousand Hills.” With its lush green highlands, captivating wildlife, and a variety of natural landscapes, Rwanda offers a truly magical travel experience.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking adventure, this safari package will guide you through some of Rwanda’s most breathtaking destinations, ensuring an unforgettable journey.

Tour Overview

On this 4 Days Volcanoes and Akagera National Park safari, travelers will visit two of Rwanda’s most famous national parks: Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and Akagera National Park, a haven for diverse wildlife. From hiking the slopes of dormant volcanoes to embarking on thrilling game drives through savannahs and wetlands, this tour provides a perfect combination of wildlife, adventure, and natural beauty.

Key Destinations Covered in This Package:

Volcanoes National Park – Renowned for its mountain gorillas and scenic landscapes.
Akagera National Park – A vast savannah reserve teeming with wildlife like elephants, lions, zebras, and more.

You may also like 3 Days Volcanoes & Akagera National Park Safari

Tour Highlights of the 4 Days Volcanoes and Akagera National Park safari

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park: Get up close with the world’s remaining mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Game Drives in Akagera National Park: Enjoy thrilling game drives through Rwanda’s only savannah park, home to the “Big Five” and a variety of other wildlife.
Scenic Landscapes: Explore volcanic mountains, lush valleys, and expansive savannahs.
Cultural Encounters: Experience Rwanda’s rich culture with opportunities to visit local communities and learn about their traditions.
Wildlife Viewing: In addition to the famous gorillas, enjoy the chance to see elephants, lions, buffalo, and a wealth of bird species.

4 Days Volcanoes and Akagera National Park safari

Brief Itinerary Itinerary of the 4 Days Volcanoes and Akagera National Park safari

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Arrival in Kigali
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park (Approx. 2.5-3 hours drive)
Evening at leisure
Overnight accommodation: Luxury or mid-range lodge near the park.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Morning briefing for Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla Trekking Expedition
Post-trek relaxation and lunch
Optional visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
Overnight accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park

Morning transfer to Akagera National Park (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)
Evening game drive
Overnight accommodation: Safari lodge within Akagera.

Day 4: Game Drives and Return to Kigali

Morning and afternoon game drives in Akagera National Park
Visit to the Akagera lakes
Return to Kigali
End of safari

Detailed Itinerary of the 4 Days Volcanoes and Akagera National Park safari

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by your safari guide who will brief you about the safari. From there, you will depart for Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern part of Rwanda. The drive will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, passing through beautiful terraced hillsides and lush green landscapes.

Accommodation: Upon arrival, you’ll check-in to your chosen accommodation, either a luxury lodge or a mid-range option. Your accommodation will offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes.
Meals: Dinner will be served at the lodge, typically featuring local Rwandan cuisine with both vegetarian and meat options.

Enjoy the evening at leisure as you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime tomorrow.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, head to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing on the Gorilla Trekking activity. Your group will be assigned to a specific gorilla family, and your trek begins with a professional park ranger guiding you through the dense forest and slopes of the volcanoes. The trek may take anywhere between 1 to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location and the terrain.

Once you find the gorillas, you will be allowed to spend one hour with them, observing their behavior and interactions, all while keeping a respectful distance. It is an incredible experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.

Accommodation: After your trek, you’ll return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch and a bit of relaxation. Depending on your energy levels, you may choose to visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to learn about local traditions and the history of Rwanda’s indigenous people.
Meals: Lunch and dinner will be provided at your lodge. Expect a variety of international and Rwandan dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, depart for Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of Rwanda, near the border with Tanzania. The drive will take approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way. Along the way, you will pass through rural Rwanda, where you’ll see traditional villages and beautiful landscapes.

Upon arrival at Akagera, you’ll check-in to your accommodation, which could be a luxury tented camp or a more standard safari lodge within the park.

Evening Game Drive: Enjoy a relaxed evening game drive through the park, keeping an eye out for wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and antelope. Depending on your arrival time, you may also spot predators such as lions or leopards.
Accommodation: Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Meals: Dinner will be served at your lodge, where you can expect a mix of international and African cuisine.

Day 4: Morning & Afternoon Game Drives and Return to Kigali

On your final day, you will have a full day of game drives in Akagera National Park. This park is one of the few places in Africa where you can see the Big Five (lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos), along with a wide variety of other wildlife species, including crocodiles, hippos, and numerous bird species.

Morning Game Drive: Start early with a morning game drive, catching animals at their most active. You’ll traverse through different habitats, including the park’s wetlands, savannahs, and woodlands.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a lodge within the park or a picnic on one of the designated spots.
Afternoon Game Drive: After lunch, enjoy another game drive to visit the lakes within the park and spot more wildlife.
In the late afternoon, you will begin your journey back to Kigali, arriving by evening, depending on road conditions.

Your safari will conclude with a drop-off at your Kigali hotel or the airport for your departure.

END OF 4 Days Volcanoes and Akagera National Park safari

BOOK THIS TOUR

Tour Inclusions

Gorilla Trekking Permit: This includes entry fees for Volcanoes National Park, a park guide, and a trek to see the mountain gorillas.
Game Drive Fees: Park entry fees and game drives in Akagera National Park.
Accommodation: 3 nights of accommodation in mid-range or luxury lodges, based on your preference.
Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during your stay at lodges.
Transportation: Private safari vehicle with a professional driver/guide, all transport costs including fuel.
Safari Guide: An experienced guide will accompany you throughout your safari.
Airport Transfers: Transfers between Kigali International Airport and the starting/ending points of the tour.
Cultural Experience: Visit to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village.

Tour Exclusions

International Flights: Flights to and from Kigali.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included but strongly recommended.
Personal Expenses: Items such as souvenirs, tips, alcoholic beverages, and snacks.
Additional Activities: Optional activities such as a boat ride on Lake Ihema in Akagera or a visit to a local village.

Safari Gear to Consider

Clothing: Lightweight, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing for game drives (avoid bright colors).
Sturdy Hiking Boots: For the gorilla trekking hike.
Rain Gear: A light rain jacket, especially during the rainy season (March to May, October to November).
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Binoculars: For bird watching and wildlife viewing.
Camera: For capturing the stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife moments.
Insect Repellent: Particularly important in tropical areas.

Why Book in Advance?

Booking this tour in advance guarantees you a permit for gorilla trekking, which is often sold out months ahead, especially during the peak season (June to September). Early booking also ensures the availability of your preferred accommodation and helps you lock in the best rates for your safari.

Why Travel With Us?

We offer a personalized experience with attention to detail. Our expert guides have extensive knowledge of Rwanda’s wildlife and culture, ensuring you have an enriching and safe journey. We partner with the best lodges and ensure that your trip is seamless, with excellent customer service from start to finish.