4 Days Rwanda Akagera Safari and Volcanoes Gorilla Trekking
This 4-day Akagera safari and Volcanoes gorilla trekking itinerary combines boat rides, game drives, and primate tracking. It starts with wildlife at Lake Ihema and ends with gorillas in Volcanoes. Each day is planned for movement, variety, and efficient transitions across Rwanda.
Planning a short wildlife and primate-focused trip in Rwanda is easy with this 4-day Akagera safari and Volcanoes gorilla trekking itinerary. It’s built for travelers who want to see big game and mountain gorillas without spending too much time on the road. Starting in Akagera National Park allows for boat safaris and game drives in a savannah setting, with chances to spot elephants, lions, rhinos, and hippos. The park is well-organized, and activities are timed to avoid long waits or crowded routes. This structure helps maximize sightings while keeping the pace comfortable.
After Akagera, the itinerary shifts to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking and optional cultural or hiking activities. The transfer is direct and manageable, giving you time to settle in before the trek. Gorilla permits are arranged in advance, and the trek is guided by experienced rangers who know the terrain and gorilla movements. The final day includes a short city tour in Kigali before departure, offering insight into Rwanda’s history and daily life. This plan suits travelers with limited time who want real wildlife and primate tracking in a well-paced format. Akagera safari and Volcanoes gorilla trekking combine two strong experiences into one efficient and rewarding visit
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival, Transfer to Akagera for Boat Safari at Lake Ihema
Day 2: Game Drives and Big Five Tracking
Day 3: Proceed to Volcanoes and Cultural Tour or Hike to Dian Fossey Tomb
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking, Explore Kigali and Departure
Price Includes:
- Gorilla tracking permit
- Park fees for all locations visited
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Ground transport in custom 4x4 safari vehicle
- Bottled water during all transfers and game drives
- Full board accommodation as specified in the itinerary
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances and park entry fees
- Price Excludes:
- Rwandan Visa (available online or on arrival)
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry services
- Travel and medical insurance
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Price Excludes:
- Rwandan Visa (available online or on arrival)
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry services
- Travel and medical insurance
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Tips for staff and guides
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival, Transfer to Akagera for Boat Safari at Lake Ihema
Your Rwanda trip starts with arrival in Kigali and a transfer to Akagera National Park, where the Akagera safari begins with a boat ride on Lake Ihema. This lake is known for hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds, making it a good introduction to wildlife without long drives. The boat safari is calm and allows close views of animals along the shoreline. Akagera safari starts here with light activity and strong photo opportunities. After the boat ride, check in to your lodge and relax before the next day’s game drives. This first day sets the pace for Akagera safari and volcanoes gorilla trekking by combining movement, wildlife, and rest
- Day2Game Drives and Big Five Tracking
Start early with a full-day game drive across Akagera’s plains and woodlands. The Akagera safari continues with tracking lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards. Your guide will follow fresh signs and known routes to improve chances of sightings. The park’s layout allows for varied terrain, so you’ll see giraffes, zebras, and antelope along the way. Breaks for meals are planned to keep the day comfortable. This day strengthens the Akagera safari and volcanoes gorilla trekking plan by focusing on big wildlife in a well-managed setting. It’s a practical way to cover large ground without rushing or missing key species
- Day3Proceed to Volcanoes and Cultural Tour or Hike to Dian Fossey Tomb
After breakfast, transfer to Volcanoes National Park to begin the volcanoes gorilla trekking section of your itinerary. Upon arrival, choose between a cultural village tour or a guided hike to the Dian Fossey tomb. The cultural tour offers insight into local traditions, farming, and crafts, while the hike takes you to the late primatologist’s research site. Both options are short and manageable, giving you time to settle in before the next day’s trek. This day connects Akagera safari and volcanoes gorilla trekking with a shift from savannah to forest, adding variety and keeping the trip well-paced
- Day4Gorilla Trekking, Explore Kigali and Departure
Start early with volcanoes gorilla trekking, guided by rangers who lead you to a habituated gorilla family. The trek varies in length depending on location but is supported by experienced staff. You’ll spend one hour observing the gorillas before returning to the lodge for lunch. Afterward, transfer to Kigali for a short city tour options include the Genocide Memorial, local markets, or art centers. This final day wraps up Akagera safari and volcanoes gorilla trekking with strong wildlife and cultural balance. Departure is planned based on your flight time, with all logistics arranged to avoid delays