Discover the Best of Rwanda in One Journey
This 7-day Rwanda Classic Safari offers an unforgettable journey through the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” From the moving history of Kigali Genocide Memorial in Kigali to the mountain forests of Volcanoes National Park, the savannah landscapes of Akagera National Park, and the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe Forest National Park, this itinerary showcases the remarkable diversity of Rwanda.
Along the way you will encounter endangered mountain gorillas, explore pristine forests rich with primates, and experience classic African wildlife safaris. The journey blends wildlife adventure, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes into one extraordinary experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Your safari begins with arrival in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant and clean capital city. A representative will warmly welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.
After some time to relax, you will embark on a city tour that introduces you to Rwanda’s history and culture. One of the most significant stops is the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide and an important place for reflection and remembrance.
You may also visit local markets and cultural sites before returning to your hotel for the evening.
Overnight stay in Kigali.
Day 2: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, you continue exploring Kigali with visits to historical and cultural landmarks before departing for Volcanoes National Park.
Located in the Virunga Mountains along Rwanda’s northern border, this park is famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. The journey offers spectacular views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, lush valleys, and rural landscapes.
Volcanoes National Park is characterized by diverse montane ecosystems including bamboo forests, open grasslands, and wetlands that support a rich variety of wildlife.
Dinner and overnight near the park.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the highlight of your safari — gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
After an early morning briefing from park rangers, you will begin your trek through the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains. Guided by experienced trackers, you will follow trails through dense vegetation in search of one of the habituated gorilla families.
When the gorillas are found, you will spend a magical hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watching these gentle giants interact, feed, and care for their young is an extraordinary wildlife encounter and one of the most profound experiences in Africa.
Return to your lodge in the afternoon for relaxation and stunning mountain views.
Day 4: Volcanoes National Park to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, you travel east across Rwanda to Akagera National Park, the country’s only savannah park.
Akagera features open plains, rolling hills, lakes, and wetlands that support an impressive diversity of wildlife. Upon arrival, you enjoy a game drive that may reveal animals such as giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and antelopes.
As evening approaches, the park becomes active with nocturnal wildlife and birds.
Dinner and overnight in the park.
Day 5: Akagera National Park to Nyungwe Forest
An early morning game drive allows for more wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park before departing for Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwestern Rwanda.
The journey passes through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside with a stop for lunch in Kigali before continuing toward Nyungwe.
Nyungwe Forest is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a biodiversity hotspot. The forest is home to numerous primates including chimpanzees, red-tailed monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys.
In the evening, an optional guided forest walk offers the chance to discover the mysterious wildlife that emerges after dark.
Dinner and overnight near the forest.
Day 6: Exploring Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, you head into the rainforest for a guided primate tracking experience in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
The forest canopy echoes with the sounds of birds and monkeys as you explore trails with expert guides. Nyungwe is known for its exceptional primate diversity, making it one of the best places in Africa for primate encounters.
During the walk you may encounter chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and other forest wildlife while learning about the ecology of this ancient rainforest.
Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Departure
After breakfast, you travel back to Kigali for your departure flight.
Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in the city before heading to the airport.
You depart Rwanda with unforgettable memories of its incredible wildlife, landscapes, and culture.
Included
- Accommodation
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner — specify)
- Transport (Safari vehicle / Tour bus / Airport transfers)
- Professional tour guide
- Park entry fees
- Activities listed in the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water
- All government taxes
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Emergency medical evacuation
Excluded
- International flights or visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (tips, shopping, laundry)
- Optional activities not in the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages
- Extra meals or snacks not included
- Accommodation before and after the tour (unless added)
- Medical or vaccination costs
