A 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari with Lake Kivu Relaxation is the perfect short getaway for travelers who want to combine an unforgettable mountain gorilla encounter with peaceful relaxation on the shores of Lake Kivu.

This carefully designed Rwanda safari takes you from Kigali to the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking before continuing to the beautiful lakeside town of Gisenyi (Rubavu). The combination of adventure and relaxation makes this one of the best short Rwanda safari packages.

The itinerary follows a popular route combining Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu, with the gorilla trek as the main highlight.

Safari Highlights

  • Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
  • Scenic drive through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside
  • Relaxation at Lake Kivu
  • Optional Lake Kivu boat cruise
  • Optional Kigali city tour
  • Comfortable private safari transportation
  • Budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodation options
  • Kigali airport pickup and drop-off

3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali – Volcanoes National Park

Your Rwanda safari begins with pickup from Kigali International Airport or your hotel in Kigali.

Depending on your arrival time, you can enjoy a short Kigali city tour before driving north toward Volcanoes National Park. The journey takes approximately 2–3 hours, passing through Rwanda’s famous rolling hills, terraced farms, and beautiful countryside.

Upon arrival in the Musanze/Kinigi area, check into your lodge and relax.

You may also choose an optional cultural experience or simply enjoy the spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Accommodation: Budget / Mid-range / Luxury lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking – Transfer to Lake Kivu

Wake up early and have breakfast before transferring to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for the gorilla trekking briefing.

After the briefing, begin your trek into the rainforest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.

Gorilla trekking can involve several hours of hiking depending on the location and movement of the gorilla family. Once you locate the gorillas, you will have an unforgettable opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.

After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and refreshments before departing for Lake Kivu in Gisenyi (Rubavu).

The drive to Lake Kivu takes roughly 1–2 hours, with beautiful views along the way.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing by the lake.

Accommodation: Budget / Mid-range / Luxury hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Lake Kivu Relaxation – Kigali

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast overlooking Lake Kivu.

You can spend the morning relaxing at the beach or choose an optional Lake Kivu boat cruise to explore the beautiful waters and nearby islands. Lake Kivu also offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and other recreational activities.

After lunch, begin your scenic drive back to Kigali.

Depending on your departure flight schedule, you will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport or your hotel in Kigali, marking the end of your 3-day Rwanda gorilla and Lake Kivu adventure.

Why Combine Gorilla Trekking with Lake Kivu?

This itinerary gives you the best of two very different Rwanda experiences.

Gorilla Trekking

Experience one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters in the rainforest of Volcanoes National Park.

Lake Kivu Relaxation

After the physically demanding gorilla trek, Lake Kivu provides the perfect opportunity to unwind beside one of Rwanda’s most beautiful lakes.

Scenic Rwanda

The journey between Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, and Lake Kivu takes you through Rwanda’s famous green hills and countryside.

Where Will You Stay?

You can choose accommodation according to your budget and travel style.

Budget

Comfortable guesthouses and budget hotels offering convenient access to the national park and Lake Kivu.

Mid-Range

Quality lodges and hotels offering comfortable rooms, good meals, and beautiful surroundings.

Luxury

Premium lodges and resorts offering exceptional service, elegant rooms, fine dining, and beautiful views.

Best Time for This Rwanda Safari

Rwanda can be visited throughout the year, but the relatively drier periods are often preferred for gorilla trekking because hiking conditions can be easier.

The commonly preferred periods are:

  • June–September
  • December–February

However, gorilla trekking takes place year-round, and the rainy seasons can also offer lush scenery and fewer visitors.

Who Is This 3-Day Safari Perfect For?

This safari is ideal for:

  • First-time visitors to Rwanda
  • Couples and honeymooners
  • Solo travelers
  • Wildlife enthusiasts
  • Adventure travelers
  • Travelers with limited vacation time
  • Travelers combining Rwanda with Uganda or Kenya

It is also an excellent East Africa add-on trip for travelers who already have plans elsewhere in the region.

Why Book with Openbill Safaris Uganda?

Openbill Safaris Uganda specializes in customized safari experiences across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

We can arrange:

  • Gorilla trekking permits
  • Private safari transportation
  • Professional driver-guides
  • Budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodation
  • Lake Kivu activities
  • Airport transfers
  • Customized East African safari combinations

Our team handles the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your gorilla trekking and Lake Kivu experience.

Book Your 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla & Lake Kivu Safari

A 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari with Lake Kivu Relaxation offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Begin with an unforgettable encounter with mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, then unwind beside the peaceful waters of Lake Kivu before returning to Kigali.

For travelers looking for a short but memorable Rwanda holiday, this itinerary delivers wildlife, scenery, culture, and relaxation in just three days.

Let Openbill Safaris Uganda create a personalized Rwanda gorilla safari that matches your travel style, accommodation preference, and budget.