14 Days Best of Rwanda Tour

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional tour guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.

Later, embark on an insightful Kigali City Tour, where you will explore some of the city's most significant attractions, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, vibrant local markets, and cultural landmarks. This experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about Rwanda's remarkable history, rich culture, and the warmth and hospitality of its people.

Accommodation: Kigali

After breakfast, depart Kigali and embark on a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda's premier savannah wildlife destination. The journey takes approximately four hours and offers breathtaking views of the country's rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and rural landscapes that have earned Rwanda the name "Land of a Thousand Hills."

Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy a relaxing lunch before heading out for an afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema, the second-largest lake in Rwanda. This exciting excursion provides excellent opportunities to observe large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles basking along the shoreline, and elephants frequently seen grazing near the water's edge.

The lake is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, hosting a remarkable variety of birdlife, including the rare and sought-after shoebill stork, African fish eagle, kingfishers, and numerous waterbird species.

After the boat safari, return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay as you prepare for further wildlife adventures in Akagera National Park.

Accommodation: Akagera National Park

Rise early for a thrilling morning game drive through Akagera National Park, Rwanda's only savannah park and home to an impressive diversity of wildlife. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you will explore the park's varied landscapes in search of elephants, buffaloes, Masai giraffes, Burchell's zebras, topis, elands, antelopes, monkeys, and a wide range of bird species.

After an exciting morning in the wilderness, return to the lodge for lunch and some time to relax while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the park.

In the afternoon, embark on a guided nature walk, offering a unique opportunity to experience Akagera's ecosystems up close. The walk provides excellent birdwatching opportunities and insights into the park's flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.

Later in the evening, set out on a sunset game drive when many animals become more active. Keep an eye out for predators such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and civets as they begin their nocturnal activities. The changing light and dramatic landscapes create excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and unforgettable safari moments.

Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Akagera National Park

Begin the day with an early morning game drive in Akagera National Park, offering another opportunity to observe wildlife at one of the most active times of the day. As the sun rises over the savannah, watch elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and other wildlife as they graze and roam across the park's diverse landscapes.

After the game drive, proceed to Mount Mutumba, one of the highest points in Akagera National Park, renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views. Enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the spectacular scenery overlooking the park's rolling hills, lakes, and vast savannah plains.

Following lunch, bid farewell to Akagera National Park and embark on a scenic drive back to Kigali. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for relaxation or enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Accommodation: Kigali

After breakfast, depart Kigali and journey south towards Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa's oldest and most biodiverse montane rainforests. Along the way, make a stop in Huye (formerly Butare), Rwanda's cultural and intellectual center.

Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Rwanda, one of the finest museums in East Africa, offering a fascinating insight into Rwanda's rich cultural heritage and history. Explore its extensive collection of traditional artifacts, royal regalia, handicrafts, historical photographs, and exhibits that showcase the customs, traditions, and daily life of the Rwandan people through the centuries.

Following the museum visit, continue your scenic drive through Rwanda's beautiful countryside, passing rolling hills, tea plantations, and picturesque rural landscapes before arriving at Nyungwe National Park.

Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the rainforest, home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife, including primates, birds, and unique plant species.

Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.

Accommodation: Nyungwe National Park

Rise early for an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking adventure in Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa's most important tropical rainforests and home to over 500 chimpanzees. After a briefing by experienced park guides, venture deep into the forest in search of these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.

As you trek through the lush rainforest, listen to the sounds of the jungle and observe the playful behavior, social interactions, and remarkable intelligence of the chimpanzees. Along the way, you may also encounter other primate species, colorful birds, and unique forest wildlife.

After lunch and some relaxation at the lodge, set out for the renowned Waterfall Trail, one of Nyungwe's most scenic hiking experiences. This guided walk takes you through dense rainforest, across rolling hills, and beneath towering trees draped with vines and rich vegetation. The trail offers excellent opportunities to spot birds, butterflies, and other forest inhabitants while immersing yourself in the pristine beauty of the ecosystem.

The highlight of the hike is a spectacular secluded waterfall hidden within the forest, providing a peaceful setting to rest, take photographs, and appreciate the natural wonders of Nyungwe.

Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Nyungwe National Park

Experience the natural beauty of Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa's most important tropical rainforests, on a guided nature walk that begins in the early morning. This immersive excursion offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the forest's rich biodiversity, from its vibrant birdlife to its remarkable primate population. Home to 13 primate species, Nyungwe provides visitors with the chance to encounter chimpanzees, Mona monkeys, Angolan black-and-white colobus monkeys, and owl-faced monkeys in their natural habitat. The walk combines wildlife observation, scenic landscapes, and expert interpretation, making it a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure travelers alike.

After breakfast, depart from Nyungwe Forest and begin your scenic journey to Kibuye (Karongi) on the shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa's Great Lakes. En route, visit the renowned Bugarama Hot Springs, where you can relax and enjoy the naturally heated mineral waters surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Later, continue to the Rusizi River for a memorable boat cruise, offering opportunities to admire the region's stunning scenery and diverse birdlife. Following the excursion, proceed to Kibuye, a charming lakeside town known for its tranquil atmosphere, rolling hills, and breathtaking views of Lake Kivu. Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening by the lake in preparation for the next day's activities.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing morning in Kibuye (Karongi), one of the most picturesque destinations along the shores of Lake Kivu. Take time to unwind at your hotel, explore the lakeside surroundings, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the lake.

This leisurely day provides the perfect opportunity to recharge and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your Rwandan safari. Whether relaxing by the water, enjoying optional recreational activities, or taking a peaceful walk along the shoreline, Lake Kivu offers an ideal setting for rest and rejuvenation.

Later in the afternoon, depart for Gisenyi (Rubavu), a charming lakeside town known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant waterfront, and panoramic views of Lake Kivu. Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and spend the evening at leisure, enjoying the serene lakeside ambiance.

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Gisenyi, where you can spend time unwinding on the shores of Lake Kivu. Take a leisurely walk along the beach, enjoy the refreshing lakeside atmosphere, or simply relax while admiring the stunning scenery of Rwanda's largest lake.

After lunch, depart for Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda's premier primate destination and the renowned home of the endangered mountain gorillas. The scenic drive through the country's picturesque hills and rural landscapes offers a glimpse into Rwanda's natural beauty and vibrant culture. Upon arrival at the park, check in to your lodge and spend the evening at leisure, preparing for the exciting wildlife experiences that await in the days ahead.

Rise early and enjoy breakfast before transferring to the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters for a comprehensive briefing by park rangers on the rules and procedures of gorilla trekking. Following the briefing, you will be assigned to a specific gorilla family and accompanied by experienced guides and trackers into the forest.

The trek takes you through the park's lush vegetation in search of the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Depending on the location and movement of the gorilla family, the trek may take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours. Once the gorillas are located, you will have the rare privilege of spending up to one hour observing these magnificent primates as they interact, feed, and care for their young.

This unforgettable wildlife encounter is widely regarded as one of Africa's most extraordinary safari experiences. After returning from the trek and enjoying a well-deserved lunch, you may choose to relax at your lodge or participate in an optional nature walk or cultural experience around Volcanoes National Park.

After breakfast, head to Volcanoes National Park for an exciting Golden Monkey Tracking experience. Endemic to the Virunga Mountains, these rare and playful primates are known for their striking golden-orange fur and energetic behavior. Accompanied by experienced park guides, you will trek through the bamboo forests in search of these fascinating monkeys and enjoy observing them in their natural habitat.

Following the trek, continue with a visit to the Dian Fossey Tomb, KARISOKE Research Site and Ellen DeGeneres Camp / Dian Fossey Museum, where you will learn about the remarkable legacy of the renowned American primatologist whose dedication to mountain gorilla conservation helped bring global attention to the protection of these endangered animals. The hike to the site also offers spectacular views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Later in the day, enjoy a scenic excursion to Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera, collectively known as the Twin Lakes. Surrounded by rolling hills and the majestic Virunga Volcanoes, these picturesque lakes provide an ideal setting for relaxation, photography, and appreciation of Rwanda's breathtaking natural beauty. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive around the beautiful Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera, taking in the spectacular landscapes of northern Rwanda. Along the way, stop at the Musangabo Viewpoint, where you can admire panoramic views of the lakes, rolling hills, and the majestic Virunga Volcanoes.

For those interested, an optional nature walk around the lakes offers an opportunity to experience the area's tranquility, observe local birdlife, and interact with nearby communities. You may also choose to visit the Batwa community (formerly known as the indigenous forest people) to gain insight into their rich cultural heritage, traditional way of life, and unique connection to the forests of Rwanda.

Later, depart for Kigali, enjoying the scenic countryside en route. Upon arrival, you may explore selected city attractions, shop for souvenirs, or relax before your onward journey. This marks the end of your unforgettable Rwandan safari, filled with remarkable wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences.

After breakfast, enjoy a guided Kigali City Tour if it was not included at the beginning of your journey. Explore Rwanda's vibrant capital, renowned for its cleanliness, safety, and remarkable transformation. Depending on your departure schedule, you may visit key attractions, local markets, cultural centers, and historical landmarks, offering a deeper insight into Rwanda's rich heritage and modern development.

Following the city tour, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, bringing your unforgettable Rwandan adventure to a close.

As your 14-Day Best of Rwanda Tour comes to an end, you depart with lasting memories of extraordinary wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and the warm hospitality that makes Rwanda truly remarkable.

End of Tour