7 Day Best Rwanda Safari Holiday
This 7-day Rwanda safari holiday combines forest walks, wildlife viewing, and cultural visits with clear planning. It includes chimp and gorilla trekking, game drives in Akagera, and a city tour in Kigali. Designed for travelers who want variety, comfort, and reliable logistics without overpacking the schedule.
Rwanda safari holiday packages are ideal for travelers who want a well-structured mix of wildlife, forest walks, and cultural visits. This 7-day itinerary covers Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, and Volcanoes National Park, with stops at tea plantations, waterfalls, and local villages. Each day is planned to reduce long transfers and maximize time in nature. Rwanda safari holiday options like this are suitable for people who prefer clear logistics, reliable guides, and manageable activities. Whether you’re interested in chimp trekking, gorilla tracking, or game drives, the schedule keeps things balanced and practical. Lodges are selected for comfort and proximity to key sites, making it easier to focus on the experience.
The itinerary starts in Kigali and moves west to Nyungwe, then east to Akagera, and finally north to Volcanoes. This loop avoids backtracking and allows for a smooth flow across Rwanda’s main parks. Rwanda safari holiday travelers benefit from paved roads, organized park systems, and professional staff at each location. Activities are spaced out to allow rest, and meals are available at all lodges. The final day includes a short city tour before departure, giving a complete view of Rwanda’s nature and culture. This plan suits solo travelers, couples, and small groups looking for value and variety without stress
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda, Proceed to Nyungwe Forest with Tea Plantation Stop Over
Day 2: Chimps Trekking and Evening Canopy Walk
Day 3: Forest Walk, Waterfall Visit and Primate Tracking
Day 4: Continue to Akagera for Evening Boat Cruise
Day 5: Experience Akagera on Game Drives and Walking Safaris
Day 6: Transfer to Volcanoes for Cultural Visit at Ibiwacu Village
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking with City Tour and Departure
Price Includes:
- Gorilla tracking permit
- Chimps trekking 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
Price Excludes:
- Rwandan Visa (available online or on arrival)
- Personal expenses and gratuitie
- 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 in Rwanda, Proceed to Nyungwe Forest with Tea Plantation Stop Over
Start your Rwanda safari holiday with arrival at Kigali International Airport and a drive to Nyungwe Forest. On the way, stop at a tea plantation to see how Rwanda’s top export is grown and processed. This break offers a chance to stretch, take photos, and learn something useful. The road to Nyungwe is paved and manageable, with rest stops available. Rwanda safari holiday plans often include this route for its convenience and access to nature. Once at Nyungwe, check into your lodge and relax. The forest is known for its biodiversity, and tomorrow’s activities are nearby. This day is ideal for settling in, adjusting to the altitude, and preparing for chimp trekking. Meals are available at the lodge, and Wi-Fi is usually reliable
- Day2Chimps Trekking and Evening Canopy Walk
Begin your Rwanda safari holiday with chimp trekking in Nyungwe Forest. Guides lead small groups into the forest early in the morning, and the walk can take 2–4 hours depending on the location of the chimps. Wear strong shoes and carry water. Rwanda safari holiday experiences like this are well-organized, with permits arranged in advance. After lunch, rest before heading out for the canopy walk. This suspended bridge offers views of the forest from above and is safe for all ages. The walk takes about 30 minutes and is guided. It’s a good way to end the day without too much effort. Lodges nearby offer dinner and hot showers, and most have backup power in case of outages
- Day3Forest Walk, Waterfall Visit and Primate Tracking
Your Rwanda safari holiday continues with a forest walk in Nyungwe, focusing on smaller primates and birdlife. The trails are marked and guides help identify species. After the walk, visit a nearby waterfall easy to reach and worth the stop for photos and a short break. Rwanda safari holiday plans often include this combination to give travelers a full day without long drives. In the afternoon, go primate tracking with a focus on colobus monkeys. These groups are easier to find and the walk is shorter than chimp trekking. This day suits travelers who want variety without pushing physical limits. Lodges provide packed lunches if needed, and most guides speak English and French. It’s a good day for light activity and nature appreciation
- Day4Continue to Akagera for Evening Boat Cruise
Leave Nyungwe early and drive toward Akagera National Park. The road is long but paved, with lunch stops available in Huye or Kigali. Rwanda safari holiday plans often include this transfer to combine forest and savannah experiences. Once at Akagera, check into your lodge and prepare for an evening boat cruise on Lake Ihema. The cruise lasts about an hour and offers views of hippos and birds. Rwanda safari holiday travelers appreciate this relaxed activity after a long drive. Boats are covered and guides explain what you see. It’s best to carry insect repellent and a light jacket. Dinner is served at the lodge, and most places offer early breakfast for the next day’s game drive
- Day5Experience Akagera on Game Drives and Walking Safaris
Start early with a game drive in Akagera, covering areas where lions, elephants, and antelopes are often seen. Rwanda safari holiday guides use radio to track animal movement, improving chances of sightings. The drive lasts 3–5 hours depending on interest and weather. After lunch, join a walking safari with a ranger. This short walk focuses on plants, tracks, and smaller animals. Rwanda safari holiday plans include this to offer a closer look at the park’s ecosystem. Wear closed shoes and carry water. Akagera is fenced and managed, making it safe for guided walks. Lodges provide dinner and Wi-Fi, and most have solar backup. This day balances wildlife viewing with light physical activity and is suitable for all fitness levels
- Day6Transfer to Volcanoes for Cultural Visit at Ibiwacu Village
Leave Akagera and drive to Volcanoes National Park in the north. The road passes through Kigali, where you can stop for lunch or supplies. Rwanda safari holiday routes often include this transfer to connect savannah and mountain regions. Once at Volcanoes, visit Ibiwacu Cultural Village to learn about traditional Rwandan life. Activities include dance, cooking, and craft demonstrations. Rwanda safari holiday guests find this visit useful for understanding local customs before gorilla trekking. The village is close to most lodges, and the tour takes about two hours. It’s a good way to relax after the drive and prepare for the next day. Lodges offer early breakfast and packed lunches for trekking day
- Day7Gorilla Trekking with City Tour and Departure
Start early for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Rwanda safari holiday permits are arranged in advance, and groups are assigned based on fitness level. The trek can take 2–6 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location. Wear strong shoes, carry snacks, and bring rain gear. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and freshen up before heading to Kigali. Rwanda safari holiday plans often include a short city tour before departure, covering places like the Genocide Memorial or local markets. This final day offers a mix of wildlife and culture, wrapping up the trip with practical timing. Airport transfers are available, and most lodges assist with check-out and transport