12-Day Rwanda Explorer: Gorillas, Nyungwe & Akagera Wildlife Safari

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 12-day Rwanda safari adventure, exploring the country’s diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage. This journey takes you through Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks, and Akagera National Park for a classic Big Five safari. With Go Safaris Africa, experience Rwanda’s breathtaking beauty while enjoying expertly guided safaris, cultural encounters, and relaxing moments by the stunning Lake Kivu.

Safari Highlights

✅ Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
✅ Chimpanzee tracking & canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest
✅ Big Five safari & boat cruise in Akagera National Park
✅ Lake Kivu relaxation & scenic boat trip
✅ Cultural experiences at Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
✅ Exploring Kigali & Genocide Memorial visit

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & City Tour

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, meet your Go Safaris Africa guide for a warm welcome. Enjoy a guided Kigali city tour, visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and craft centers before checking into your hotel.

• Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel / Heaven Boutique Hotel

Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas. En route, stop at Musanze Caves or visit a local community for a cultural experience. Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon and relax as you prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

The highlight of your Rwanda safari begins today! After a briefing at the park headquarters, set off on an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience through the misty rainforest. Spend an hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat before trekking back. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about Rwanda’s traditions.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

Day 4: Golden Monkey Trekking & Twin Lakes Visit

Begin your day with an exhilarating golden monkey trek, where you’ll observe these playful primates in their bamboo forest habitat. Later, visit the beautiful Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, offering breathtaking views and birdwatching opportunities.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

Day 5: Transfer to Lake Kivu – Relaxation & Boat Ride

Depart Volcanoes National Park for Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the lake, take a boat ride to explore small islands, or visit local fishing villages.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel / Paradise Malahide

Day 6: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Stop at Kibuye for stunning lake views before continuing to your lodge. Enjoy an evening nature walk or relax at the lodge.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel / Gisakura Guest House

Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking & Canopy Walk Adventure

Set off early for an exciting chimpanzee tracking adventure in Nyungwe Forest. Follow expert guides as you search for these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, experience the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, a thrilling suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the rainforest.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel / Gisakura Guest House

Day 8: Waterfall Hike & Transfer to Akagera National Park

Embark on a refreshing waterfall hike in Nyungwe before departing for Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park. Arrive in the evening and check in at your lodge.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Akagera Game Lodge / Ruzizi Tented Lodge

Day 9: Full-Day Big Five Safari in Akagera National Park

Enjoy an early morning game drive in Akagera, home to lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and rhinos. Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from savannahs to wetlands. In the afternoon, take a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Accommodation: Akagera Game Lodge / Ruzizi Tented Lodge

Day 10: Morning Safari & Return to Kigali

Take a final morning game drive before heading back to Kigali. Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy leisure time or optional shopping in Kigali.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
• Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel / Heaven Boutique Hotel

Day 11: Visit to King’s Palace & Ethnographic Museum

Take a cultural tour to Nyanza King’s Palace Museum and the Ethnographic Museum in Butare, learning about Rwanda’s rich history. Return to Kigali for an evening at leisure.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
• Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel / Heaven Boutique Hotel

Day 12: Departure – End of Safari

Enjoy a relaxed morning before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

Safari Inclusions

✅ Gorilla & chimpanzee trekking permits
✅ All park entrance fees & guided activities
✅ Professional English-speaking safari guide
✅ Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
✅ Accommodation & meals as per itinerary
✅ Bottled water during safaris

Safari Exclusions

❌ International flights
❌ Rwanda visa fees
❌ Personal expenses & tips
❌ Optional activities