Tour Overview
Experience the beauty, wildlife, and culture of Rwanda on this unforgettable 8 Day Rwanda Wildlife Safari. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda offers breathtaking landscapes, mountain gorilla trekking, Big Five wildlife safaris, chimpanzee tracking, scenic lakes, and authentic cultural experiences.
This safari takes you through Rwanda’s top safari destinations including Akagera National Park, Nyungwe National Park, and Volcanoes National Park, offering a perfect combination of wildlife, primates, nature, and adventure.
Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, honeymoon traveler, or nature lover, this safari delivers one of the best East African safari experiences.
Safari Highlights
- Big Five wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest
- Canopy walk experience
- Scenic Rwanda countryside drives
- Boat safari on Lake Ihema
- Cultural and community encounters
- Beautiful volcanic and rainforest landscapes
Detailed Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Akagera National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by your safari guide before transferring to Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda. Enjoy scenic countryside views along the drive before arriving at your lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 2: Full-Day Wildlife Safari in Akagera National Park
Spend the day exploring Akagera National Park on exciting game drives across the savannah plains and wetlands. The park is home to the Big Five including lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards, as well as giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and numerous bird species. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing boat safari on Lake Ihema where you may spot hippos, crocodiles, and water birds.
Day 3: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
After breakfast, depart Akagera and begin your scenic journey to Nyungwe National Park in southwestern Rwanda. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, tea plantations, and local villages before arriving at your lodge near Nyungwe Forest for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking & Canopy Walk Experience
Wake up early for breakfast before heading into Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee tracking. Accompanied by experienced ranger guides, search for habituated chimpanzees while enjoying sightings of other primates, colorful birds, and rainforest wildlife. Later, enjoy the famous Nyungwe canopy walk offering breathtaking aerial views of the forest canopy and surrounding landscapes.
Day 5: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, depart Nyungwe and transfer to Volcanoes National Park located in northern Rwanda near the Virunga Mountains. Enjoy scenic countryside drives and optional cultural stopovers before arriving at your lodge for relaxation and overnight stay.
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the highlight of your Rwanda safari as you experience mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early morning briefing, trek through the forested volcanic slopes with ranger guides in search of a habituated gorilla family and spend one unforgettable hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat.
Day 7: Golden Monkey Tracking & Cultural Experience
After breakfast, enjoy golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park where you will encounter playful and endangered golden monkeys in the bamboo forests. Later, enjoy a cultural village visit to learn about traditional Rwandan culture, music, dance, and local community life.
Day 8: Transfer Back to Kigali & Departure
After breakfast, transfer back to Kigali with optional visits to local markets, craft centers, or the Kigali Genocide Memorial depending on your departure schedule. You will later be dropped off at the airport for your international flight marking the end of your unforgettable Rwanda wildlife safari.
Safari Inclusions
Included:
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Chimpanzee tracking permit
- Golden monkey tracking permit
- Accommodation and meals
- Private safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Park entrance fees
- Boat safari on Lake Ihema
- Bottled drinking water
Best Time for Rwanda Wildlife Safaris
Rwanda is a year-round safari destination, but the best travel seasons are:
Dry Seasons:
- June to September
- December to February
These months provide ideal conditions for gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and wildlife viewing.
Why Book with Openbill Safaris Uganda?
Openbill Safaris Uganda specializes in customized Rwanda and East African safari experiences with:
- Professional safari guides
- Reliable gorilla permit booking
- Comfortable safari transportation
- Luxury, mid-range, and budget safari options
- Personalized safari planning
We ensure your Rwanda safari is smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
