9 Days 8 Nights Best of Rwanda Safari

Embark on the 9-Day Best of Rwanda Safari, a journey through the heart of Africa in the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” This unforgettable adventure combines Rwanda’s most iconic experiences: mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Big Five safari encounters in Akagera National Park, chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks in Nyungwe National Park, and relaxing lakeside activities at Lake Kivu.

Discover Rwanda’s diverse landscapes, from savannahs and volcanic mountains to lush rainforests and sparkling lakes. Within just one week, explore three of Rwanda’s top national parks and enjoy a variety of wildlife, primates, breathtaking scenery, cultural stops, and exciting activities  all in one compact yet enriching itinerary.

The ultimate Rwanda experience covering all major attractions. This comprehensive tour showcases gorillas, chimpanzees, Big Five wildlife, stunning lakes, cultural sites, and Rwanda's remarkable landscapes.

Tour Highlights

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park

• Big Five safari in Akagera National Park

• Chimpanzee trekking & canopy walk in Nyungwe National Park

• Sunset boat cruise on Lake Ihema

• Leisure & exploration at Lake Kivu

• Kigali city cultural tour

• Luxury and midrange accommodation options

What to Expect

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kigali. Take time to relax and enjoy Rwanda’s clean, orderly, and vibrant capital  often referred to as the “Singapore of Africa.” Kigali offers cultural attractions, local markets, and scenic viewpoints.

Overnight: Movenpick Hotel Kigali 

Complete Rwanda Experience

All major national parks visited, mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, Big Five wildlife, 13 primate species total, over 1,000 bird species across parks, diverse ecosystems from rainforest to savannah, cultural and historical sites, pristine lakes and waterfalls, tea and coffee plantations (Optional), and authentic Rwandan cultural experiences.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Kigali – Airport Pickup & Hotel Transfer

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kigali. Take time to relax and enjoy Rwanda’s clean, orderly, and vibrant capital — often referred to as the “Singapore of Africa.” Kigali offers cultural attractions, local markets, and scenic viewpoints.

Overnight: Movenpick Hotel Kigali 

Day 2 – Kigali City Tour 

After breakfast, your Afri Safaris guide will meet you for a private Kigali city tour. Visit key landmarks, explore cultural sites, and gain insight into Rwanda’s history. The tour concludes around 4:00 PM.

Dinner & Overnight: Movenpick Hotel Kigali

Day 3 – Transfer to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, depart Kigali around 7:00 AM and drive east to Akagera National Park (approx. 2.5–3 hours). En route, stop at Imigongo Art Coffee Shop to stretch your legs, enjoy a coffee, and admire local artwork.

Upon arrival, check in, relax, and enjoy:

• Half-day game drive at Nyamwashama

• Sunset boat cruise on Lake Ihema to spot hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife

Dinner & Overnight: Akagera Game Lodge

Day 4 – Full-Day Akagera Safari 

Start with an early morning game drive in the southern plain, followed by lunch at Karenge Bush Camp. Continue your safari, seeking lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and other Big Five species in the Norther plains.

Afterward, transfer back to your stays.

Dinner & Overnight: Karenge Bush Camp

Day 5 – Early Morning Safari and Transfer to Musanze in Volcanoes National Park 

Begin the day with a pre-breakfast morning game drive in Akagera’s northern plains, after breakfast then transfer to Volcanoes National Park with packed lunch or lunch on the way. Enjoy stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes en route.

Overnight: Ingagi Park View Hotel, Musanze

Day 6 – Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast, head to RDB Headquarters in Kinigi for a gorilla trekking briefing. Your assigned park rangers will lead you into the forest to track your gorilla family. Trekking can take 2–6 hours, depending on location, and you’ll have one incredible hour observing these majestic primates.

After trekking, return to Kinigi for lunch, then transfer to Lake Kivu in Rubavu / Karongi for relaxation and optional nightlife experiences.

Dinner & Overnight: Cormoran Lodge, Lake Kivu

Day 7 – Lake Kivu Boat Cruise & Transfer to Nyungwe National Park

Enjoy a morning boat cruise on Lake Kivu, exploring its islands, beaches, and scenic shores. After lunch, drive to Nyungwe National Park, the jewel of Rwanda’s rainforests.

Dinner & Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hotel or Munazi Lodge

Day 8 – Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk in Nyungwe

Begin with an early morning chimpanzee trekking experience. Your expert guides will lead you through lush rainforest trails to observe chimps in their natural habitat  a dynamic, vocal, and unforgettable encounter lasting 3–5 hours.

After lunch, enjoy the Nyungwe Canopy Walkway and a nature walk at Uwinka Visitor Center, with opportunities for birdwatching and breathtaking forest views.

Dinner & Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hotel or Munazi Lodge

Day 9 – Return to Kigali / Departure

After breakfast, depart for Kigali on a scenic drive (approximately 5–6 hours). En route, enjoy a relaxing stop at Stafford Coffee, renowned for its premium Rwandan coffee, where you will have refreshments and lunch. Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight or dropped off at your pre-booked hotel within the city.

End of the 9-Day Rwanda Safari.
We hope you have enjoyed an unforgettable journey through Rwanda. Your professional driver-guide will ensure a smooth and timely drop-off, marking the conclusion of your remarkable safari experience with Afri Safaris.