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7-Day Rwanda Highlights Safari

7-Day Rwanda Highlights Safari: The Best of the Land of a Thousand Hills

A 7-day Rwanda highlights safari offers an exceptional journey through Rwanda’s most iconic attractions. From gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park to game drives in Akagera National Park and cultural exploration in Kigali, this safari gives you a perfect blend of wildlife, nature, and culture.

Safari Highlights

  • Gorilla Trekking: Experience the rare thrill of meeting mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
  • Big Five Safari: Spot lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo in Akagera National Park.
  • Golden Monkey Trekking: Witness these playful and endangered primates in Volcanoes National Park.
  • Lake Kivu: Relax by Rwanda’s largest lake, a paradise of tranquility and scenic beauty.
  • Cultural Immersion: Learn about Rwanda’s history and traditions through local interactions.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

  1. Welcome to Rwanda:
    • Arrive at Kigali International Airport and meet your safari guide.
    • Receive a briefing on your safari itinerary.
  2. Kigali City Tour (Optional):
    • Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand Rwanda’s history.
    • Explore local markets and sample Rwandan coffee at one of Kigali’s cozy cafés.
  3. Dinner and Overnight Stay:
    • Check into your hotel for the night.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel.
  • Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel.
  • Budget: Step Town Motel.

Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park

  1. Scenic Drive to Akagera:
    • Depart for Akagera National Park, a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali.
    • Enjoy the rolling hills and rural villages along the way.
  2. Afternoon Game Drive:
    • Upon arrival, embark on your first game drive.
    • Spot giraffes, zebras, and antelopes in the park’s savannahs.
  3. Evening Relaxation:
    • Check into your lodge and unwind as you prepare for the next day.

Accommodation:

Day 3: Full-Day Wildlife Safari in Akagera

  1. Morning Game Drive:
    • Rise early for a thrilling game drive through Akagera’s northern plains.
    • Look for lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards, as well as numerous bird species.
  2. Lunch Break:
    • Return to the lodge for lunch and a short rest.
  3. Afternoon Boat Safari on Lake Ihema:
    • Enjoy a peaceful boat safari on Lake Ihema.
    • Spot hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds like African jacanas and kingfishers.
  4. Evening at the Lodge:
    • Reflect on the day’s wildlife encounters over a delicious dinner.

Accommodation: Same as Day 2.

Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

  1. Morning Drive to Volcanoes National Park:
    • Depart for Volcanoes National Park, located in Rwanda’s northern region.
    • The drive takes approximately 6–7 hours, with stunning views of terraced hills and volcanoes.
  2. Stopover at Kigali:
    • Take a lunch break or explore Kigali before continuing to Volcanoes.
  3. Evening Arrival:
    • Check into your lodge near the park and relax.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: Bisate Lodge.
  • Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel.
  • Budget: Kinigi Guesthouse.

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

  1. Early Morning Preparation:
    • After breakfast, head to the park headquarters by 7:00 AM for a pre-trek briefing.
  2. The Trek:
    • Begin your trek into the dense rainforest to find a habituated gorilla family.
    • Trekking can take 2–6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location.
    • Along the way, enjoy the sights and sounds of the forest, including other wildlife and bird species.
  3. Gorilla Encounter:
    • Spend one unforgettable hour with the gorillas. Watch them feed, play, and interact while the silverback keeps a watchful eye.
  4. Return and Relaxation:
    • Trek back to the starting point and receive a certificate of participation.
    • Spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Accommodation: Same as Day 4.

Day 6: Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Lake Kivu

  1. Golden Monkey Trekking:
    • Start your day with a trek to see the endangered golden monkeys.
    • These playful primates are found in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park.
  2. Drive to Lake Kivu:
    • After the trek, transfer to Lake Kivu, about a 2-hour drive.
    • Check into your lodge and enjoy the serene beauty of this freshwater lake.
  3. Evening Relaxation:
    • Stroll along the lakeshore or take a boat ride to nearby islands.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel.
  • Mid-range: Paradise Malahide.
  • Budget: Inzu Lodge.

Day 7: Return to Kigali and Departure

  1. Morning at Lake Kivu:
    • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast by the lake.
    • Optional activities include kayaking, swimming, or visiting coffee plantations.
  2. Drive Back to Kigali:
    • Depart for Kigali, a 3–4 hour drive.
    • Stop at local markets or craft centers for last-minute souvenirs.
  3. Departure:
    • Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.

What to Pack for the Safari

  • Clothing:
    • Comfortable hiking boots and long-sleeved clothing for trekking.
    • Light layers for daytime and warm clothing for cooler evenings.
    • A waterproof jacket in case of rain.
  • Accessories:
    • Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
    • Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
    • A camera (no flash during gorilla trekking).
  • Essentials:
    • Insect repellent.
    • Reusable water bottle and snacks.
    • A backpack for trekking gear.

Safari Costs

  1. Gorilla Trekking Permit: $1,500 per person.
  2. Golden Monkey Trekking Permit: $100 per person.
  3. Accommodation:
    • Luxury: $300–$1,000 per night.
    • Mid-range: $150–$300 per night.
    • Budget: $50–$150 per night.
  4. Park Fees and Activities:
    • Akagera game drives: $40–$60 per person.
    • Lake Ihema boat safari: $30–$50 per person.

Best Time to Visit

  • Dry Season (June–September, December–February): Best for trekking and wildlife viewing.
  • Wet Season (March–May, October–November): Perfect for lush scenery and birdwatching, though trails may be muddy.

Why Choose the 7-Day Rwanda Highlights Safari?

This week-long adventure offers the perfect mix of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and scenic relaxation. Whether you’re trekking with gorillas, spotting the Big Five, or unwinding by Lake Kivu, every moment is packed with unforgettable experiences.

Start planning your safari today for an adventure of a lifetime!