6 day see gorillas in Rwanda and wildlife safari
This 6-day trip lets you see gorillas in Rwanda and wildlife safari in the country’s top destinations. Start in Kigali with a city tour before heading to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, explore the Twin Lakes and hike Mount Bisoke for stunning views. Then, shift to Akagera National Park for game drives (spotting lions, elephants, and more), a peaceful boat cruise, and a cultural village visit. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, and local culture
Rwanda proves you don't need weeks to see gorillas and wildlife safari. Your six-day journey begins with gorilla trekking - an intense hike rewarded by watching pound silverback casually strip bamboo stalks. Next day, you're navigating Akagera's open plains, counting elephants and spotting rare birds. The variety surprises first-time visitors: from climbing volcanic peaks to floating past crocodile-inhabited shores, this wildlife safari packs remarkable diversity into manageable distances. Local guides share insights about conservation success stories, like how Rwanda brought lions back after 15 years. Pro advice: Pack layers - mountain mornings chill while savannah afternoons blaze.
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival, Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Twin Lakes Exploration
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Hike Bisoke
Day 4: Transfer to Akagera National Park with Evening Boat Cruise
Day 5: Game Drive, Nature Walk and Cultural Visit
Day 6: Drive Back to Kigali and Departure
Price Includes:
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Golden monkey tracking permits
- 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
- Boat cruise on Lake Ihema
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, Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Your trip to see gorillas in Rwanda and wildlife safari starts in Kigali. Upon your arrival at the airport you will be welcomed by your guide who will later take you around the city and Visit the Genocide Memorial to understand Rwanda’s history, then explore local markets for crafts and fresh produce. Later, drive to Volcanoes National Park, home to mountain gorillas. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, with views of rolling hills. Rest early—you’ll need energy for gorilla trekking tomorrow.
- Day2Gorilla Trekking and Twin Lakes Exploration
Today, you’ll see gorillas in Rwanda up close. Wake early for a briefing at the park’s center and after you will hike through the forest with a guide, passing bamboo and wildflowers. Gorilla families are used to visitors, so you can observe them eating, playing, or napping. Spend an hour with them before heading to the Twin Lakes (Burera and Ruhondo). These quiet lakes are perfect for photos or a relaxed picnic. If you’re not too tired, visit a nearby village to see local life
- Day3Golden Monkey Trekking and Hike Bisoke
Another active day in your see gorillas and wildlife safari are Golden monkeys, with their bright fur, are playful and fun to watch. Trekking to find them is easier than gorillas great if you want something lighter. Later, hike Mount Bisoke, a volcano with a stunning crater lake at the top. The climb takes about 4-6 hours, with steep sections, but the view is worth it. Pack good shoes and a rain jacket weather changes fast.
- Day4Transfer to Akagera National Park with Evening Boat Cruise
Leave the mountains for Akagera, Rwanda’s only savannah park where you can see the big five in one place. The drive takes about 4-5 hours, passing farms and small towns. Arrive in time for a boat cruise on Lake Ihema. Spot hippos, crocodiles, and birds like fish eagles. The water is calm in the evening, making it a peaceful way to end the day. Your lodge here feels wild sometimes you hear animals at night.
- Day5Game Drive, Nature Walk and Cultural Visit
Wake up early for a game drive to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and maybe lions. Akagera’s landscape is open, so animals are easier to find. Later, take a guided nature walk near the lake it’s quieter and good for birdwatching. In the afternoon, visit a nearby community to learn about traditional dancing, crafts, or farming. It’s a nice break from the wild and supports local people.
- Day6Drive Back to Kigali and Departure
Time to head back to Kigali. The drive is about 2-3 hours, with a possible stop for coffee or souvenirs. If your flight is late, squeeze in a last-minute visit to a museum or café. This trip lets you see gorillas in Rwanda and wildlife safari highlights forests, savannah, lakes, and culture all in just six days. Safe