7 Day Best Rwanda Safari Tour with Volcanoe Hiking
This 7-day best Rwanda safari tour itinerary offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, volcano hiking, and cultural experiences across Rwanda’s top safari destinations. From Akagera’s savannahs to Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu, each day is designed for variety and efficient travel. It’s an ideal plan for those seeking nature, activity, and local connection.
Embark on a thoughtfully curated 7-day best Rwanda safari that blends scenic landscapes, wildlife diversity, and cultural depth. This itinerary moves seamlessly from the vibrant streets of Kigali to the savannahs of Akagera National Park and the misty highlands of Volcanoes National Park. Each day is designed to offer a distinct experience whether it’s observing golden monkeys in bamboo forests, tracking rhinos across open plains, or hiking to a crater lake atop a dormant volcano. The journey is paced to balance activity with rest, ensuring travelers enjoy both immersion and comfort.
Beyond wildlife, this safari emphasizes Rwanda’s rich heritage and community connection. Visits to cultural villages, artisan cooperatives, and lakeside communities offer meaningful insight into local life. The inclusion of Lake Kivu provides a tranquil interlude, while guided walks and city tours add context to the country’s past and present. Ideal for travelers seeking variety and authenticity, this itinerary showcases Rwanda’s natural beauty and cultural resilience without rushing or overwhelming. It’s a well-rounded plan that respects the rhythm of travel and the value of genuine experiences
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in at Kigali Airport, Transfer to Hotel and Evening City Tour
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera for Boat Cruise and Evening Game Drive
Day 3: Early Game Drive with Big Five and Rhino Tracking
Day 4: Continue to Volcanoes for Golden Monkey Trekking
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking with Cultural Experience
Day 6: Volcanoe Hike and Crater Exploration, Proceed to Lake Kivu for Relaxation
Day 7: Community Walk and Return to Kigali for Departure
Price Includes:
- Gorilla and Golden monkey permits
- Ground transport per 4WD custom vehicle
- Bottled water in the safari vehicle
- Full board accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
- Service of an English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances
- All mentioned activities (except optional ones)
Price Excludes:
- Rwandan Visa
- International and Internal Flights
- Personal needs such as gratitude, beverages
- Air ticket
- Optional Activities
- Laundry fees
- Tips
- Life insurance
- Drinks apart from water
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in at Kigali Airport, Transfer to Hotel and Evening City Tour
Begin the best Rwanda safari with arrival at Kigali International Airport, followed by a comfortable transfer to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy an evening city tour that includes key landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, and panoramic viewpoints. This introduction to Rwanda’s capital offers cultural depth and sets the tone for the days ahead. The best Rwanda safari starts with understanding the country’s history and vibrant urban life before heading into its national parks. Dinner at a local restaurant rounds out the day with Rwandan flavors and hospitality
- Day2Transfer to Akagera for Boat Cruise and Evening Game Drive
Continue the best Rwanda safari with a morning transfer to Akagera National Park, known for its savannah landscapes and lakeside beauty. Upon arrival, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, where hippos, crocodiles, and water birds are commonly seen. In the evening, head out for a game drive to spot wildlife such as giraffes, antelope, and possibly lions. Akagera offers a unique contrast to Rwanda’s forested parks, making it a vital part of the best Rwanda safari experience. Overnight at a lodge near the park ensures early access for the next day’s activities
- Day3Early Game Drive with Big Five and Rhino Tracking
Start the day with an early morning game drive in Akagera, focusing on locating the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. The park’s eastern plains and wooded areas offer excellent visibility and diverse habitats. Rhino tracking is a highlight, with guides helping locate these reintroduced animals in protected zones. This segment of the best Rwanda safari emphasizes classic savannah wildlife and conservation success. After the drive, enjoy breakfast at the lodge and prepare for the transfer to the northern region. The best Rwanda safari continues with a shift toward primate-rich landscapes
- Day4Continue to Volcanoes for Golden Monkey Trekking
Travel to Volcanoes National Park, a key destination in the best Rwanda safari itinerary. Upon arrival, join a guided trek to see golden monkeys, a playful and endangered species found in the bamboo forests. The trek is moderate and offers close views of these agile primates as they forage and leap through the trees. Volcanoes National Park adds altitude and rainforest terrain to the best Rwanda safari, contrasting beautifully with Akagera’s open plains. Spend the afternoon relaxing at your lodge, preparing for the next day’s gorilla trekking experience
- Day5Gorilla Trekking with Cultural Experience
Begin the day with gorilla trekking, the centerpiece of the best Rwanda safari. After a briefing at the park headquarters, hike into the forest to spend one hour observing a habituated gorilla family. The experience is deeply moving and highlights Rwanda’s commitment to conservation. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about traditional Rwandan customs, music, and storytelling. This cultural immersion adds depth to the best Rwanda safari, connecting wildlife tourism with community engagement. Return to the lodge for a warm meal and reflection on the day’s highlights
- Day6Volcanoe Hike and Crater Exploration, Proceed to Lake Kivu for Relaxation
Take on a volcano hike in Volcanoes National Park, choosing a route like Mount Bisoke, which features a scenic crater lake at the summit. The hike adds adventure and physical challenge to the best Rwanda safari, offering panoramic views and alpine vegetation. After descending, transfer to Lake Kivu for an afternoon of relaxation by the water. This lakeside retreat balances the intensity of trekking with peaceful downtime. The best Rwanda safari benefits from this change of pace, allowing time to unwind while still surrounded by natural beauty
- Day7Community Walk and Return to Kigali for Departure
Wrap up the best Rwanda safari with a morning community walk near Lake Kivu, visiting local farms, fishing villages, or artisan cooperatives. This final activity offers insight into daily life and supports sustainable tourism. After the walk, begin the return journey to Kigali, arriving in time for your departure flight. The best Rwanda safari concludes with a sense of connection to landscapes, wildlife, and people. This itinerary blends adventure, culture, and relaxation across Rwanda’s most iconic destinations, leaving lasting impressions and a well-rounded travel experience