14-Day Luxury Rwanda Safari: The Ultimate Journey Through the Land of a Thousand Hills
Rwanda, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and remarkable wildlife, offers the ultimate destination for a luxury safari. This 14-day luxury Rwanda safari is a carefully crafted itinerary that blends adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park to serene moments at Lake Kivu and thrilling wildlife encounters in Akagera National Park, this safari offers a seamless and luxurious experience. 14-Day Luxury Rwanda Safari
Highlights of the Safari
- Luxury Accommodation: Stay in some of the finest lodges and camps in Rwanda.
- Gorilla Trekking: Experience the magic of meeting mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
- Golden Monkey Trekking: Observe these rare and playful primates.
- Big Five Safari: Spot lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo in Akagera National Park.
- Relaxation at Lake Kivu: Unwind by Rwanda’s largest lake with stunning views and luxurious comfort.
- Cultural Exploration: Discover Rwanda’s history, art, and traditions in Kigali and local communities.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
- Welcome to Rwanda:
- Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your safari guide.
- Transfer to your luxury hotel in Kigali.
- Optional Kigali City Tour:
- Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a moving insight into Rwanda’s history.
- Explore local art galleries and craft markets for unique souvenirs.
- Dinner and Relaxation:
- Enjoy a gourmet dinner and relax in your luxurious surroundings.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: The Retreat by Heaven.
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park
- Scenic Drive to Akagera:
- Depart for Akagera National Park, a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali.
- Marvel at Rwanda’s rolling hills and picturesque countryside.
- Afternoon Game Drive:
- Embark on your first game drive to spot zebras, giraffes, and antelopes.
- Evening at the Lodge:
- Settle into your luxury lodge overlooking the park’s plains.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Magashi Camp.
Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Akagera National Park
- Morning Game Drive:
- Venture into the park’s northern plains for a chance to see lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo.
- Lunch Break at the Lodge:
- Return to the lodge for a gourmet lunch and some downtime.
- Boat Safari on Lake Ihema:
- Enjoy a relaxing boat safari, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
- Sundowner Experience:
- Toast to a successful day with drinks at a scenic spot in the park.
Accommodation: Same as Day 2.
Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
- Drive to Volcanoes National Park:
- Begin your journey to Volcanoes National Park, located in northern Rwanda.
- Stop en route to visit local markets or enjoy a lunch break in Musanze town.
- Evening at Leisure:
- Check into your luxurious lodge and enjoy the serene views of the Virunga Mountains.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Bisate Lodge.
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Early Morning Adventure:
- After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking.
- The Trek:
- Trek through lush forests to find a habituated gorilla family.
- Spend one magical hour observing these gentle giants.
- Return and Relaxation:
- Return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest and a soothing spa treatment.
Accommodation: Same as Day 4.
Day 6: Golden Monkey Trekking and Visit to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
- Golden Monkey Trekking:
- Trek through the bamboo forests to see the rare and playful golden monkeys.
- Cultural Immersion:
- Visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about Rwanda’s traditions, dances, and crafts.
- Evening at the Lodge:
- Relax by the firepit and enjoy a gourmet dinner.
Accommodation: Same as Day 4.
Day 7: Transfer to Lake Kivu
- Scenic Drive to Lake Kivu:
- Depart for Lake Kivu, a 2-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park.
- Relax by the Lake:
- Check into your luxury lodge and spend the afternoon unwinding by the water.
- Optional Activities:
- Take a boat ride, go kayaking, or visit coffee plantations around the lake.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel.
Day 8: Relaxation at Lake Kivu
- Day at Leisure:
- Spend a tranquil day enjoying the luxurious amenities of your lodge.
- Indulge in a lakeside massage or enjoy a private picnic on the beach.
- Optional Excursion:
- Visit the Napoleon Island for birdwatching and hiking.
Accommodation: Same as Day 7.
Day 9: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Drive to Nyungwe:
- Travel to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a 4–5 hour journey through stunning tea plantations.
- Arrival and Relaxation:
- Check into your luxurious lodge nestled in the forest.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House.
Day 10: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
- Chimpanzee Trekking Adventure:
- Wake up early for a guided trek to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
- Enjoy the unique experience of observing their playful behavior.
- Canopy Walk:
- Take a thrilling canopy walk through the forest, offering panoramic views and birdwatching opportunities.
Accommodation: Same as Day 9.
Day 11: Nature Walk and Tea Plantation Tour
- Guided Nature Walk:
- Explore Nyungwe’s lush trails, home to orchids, waterfalls, and endemic wildlife.
- Tea Plantation Visit:
- Learn about Rwanda’s thriving tea industry with a visit to a nearby plantation.
Accommodation: Same as Day 9.
Day 12: Transfer Back to Kigali
- Drive to Kigali:
- Return to Kigali, stopping for lunch en route.
- Evening Leisure:
- Enjoy a luxurious dinner at your hotel.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: The Retreat by Heaven.
Day 13: Free Day in Kigali
- Optional Activities:
- Explore Kigali’s art galleries, coffee shops, and local markets.
- Take a cooking class to learn traditional Rwandan recipes.
- Spa Treatment:
- Indulge in a rejuvenating spa session at your hotel.
Accommodation: Same as Day 12.
Day 14: Departure
- Last-Minute Shopping:
- Visit local craft markets for souvenirs.
- Airport Transfer:
- Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
Safari Costs
- Gorilla Trekking Permit: $1,500 per person.
- Golden Monkey Trekking Permit: $100 per person.
- Chimpanzee Trekking Permit: $90 per person.
- Accommodation:
- Luxury lodges: $500–$2,000 per night.
- Private Safari Vehicle and Guide: $200–$300 per day.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (June–September, December–February): Ideal for trekking and wildlife viewing.
- Wet Season (March–May, October–November): Best for lush scenery and birdwatching.
Why Choose the 14-Day Luxury Rwanda Safari?
This luxury safari combines adventure, culture, and relaxation in a meticulously planned itinerary. From intimate encounters with gorillas and chimpanzees to luxurious lodges and breathtaking scenery, this safari promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Africa.
Start planning your journey today!
