This 8-day wildlife in Rwanda adventure combines primate spotting, magical safaris, and cultural experiences with an exciting Congo Nile Trail biking tour. Trek chimpanzees in Nyungwe, spot the Big Five in Akagera, visit golden monkeys in Volcanoes, and relax at Lake Kivu before exploring Rwanda’s coffee and tea villages. Perfect for adventure seekers, this itinerary balances wildlife, landscapes, and local culture.
Wildlife in Rwanda itinerary offers an immersive experience in Rwanda’s most stunning landscapes, blending primate experience, classic safaris, and adventure-filled biking tours. Begin in Nyungwe Forest with chimpanzee trekking and a breathtaking canopy walkway before heading to Akagera National Park for Big Five sightings, boat safaris, and rhino tracking on foot. Continue to Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey trekking and cultural tours, deepening your connection to Rwanda’s rich heritage. Relax by the shores of Lake Kivu with water sports and island hopping before cycling through the Congo Nile Trail, visiting coffee and tea villages along the way. The journey concludes with a Kigali city tour, highlighting Rwanda’s vibrant history and modern growth. Perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts, this wildlife in Rwanda tour delivers unforgettable moments while showcasing Rwanda’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism
Day 1: Pickup from Kigali Airport, Transfer to Nyungwe Forest for Canopy Walkway
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking, Colobus Monkeys, and Waterfall Hike
Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park for Afternoon Boat and Night Game Drive
Day 4: Early Game Drive, Big Five Experience, and Track Rhinos on Foot
Day 5: Transfer to Volcanoes for Golden Monkeys with Cultural Tour
Day 6: Transfer to Lake Kivu for Relaxation and Water Sports with Island Hopping
Day 7: Biking Tours, Visit Coffee and Tea Villages
Day 8: Return to Kigali for City Tour and Departure
The wildlife in Rwanda adventure begins with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport, followed by a road drive to Nyungwe Forest. Upon arrival, you’ll experience the exceptional canopy walkway, suspended 50 meters above the lush rainforest. This elevated trail offers breathtaking views and unique perspectives of Nyungwe’s diverse flora and fauna. As you walk through the treetops, keep an eye out for primates and exotic birds. This first day sets the tone for an immersive wildlife in Rwanda experience, introducing you to the country’s incredible biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes
Begin the day with an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking adventure in Nyungwe Forest, a highlight of your wildlife in Rwanda journey. Guided by expert trackers, you’ll follow these intelligent primates through dense vegetation, observing their social interactions. Later, encounter playful colobus monkeys, known for their striking black-and-white fur. The day concludes with a refreshing waterfall hike, offering scenic views and serene moments amid the forest. This blend of trekking and exploration provides an unforgettable wildlife in Rwanda experience, immersing you in the park’s rich primate life and natural beauty
Today Your wildlife in Rwanda tour continues as you travel to Akagera National Park, home to Rwanda’s classic safari landscapes. In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where hippos, crocodiles, and water birds thrive. As night falls, a guided night game drive introduces you to nocturnal wildlife, including elusive leopards and hyenas. Akagera’s unique blend of wetland and savannah ecosystems ensures diverse sightings, making this park an essential stop in your wildlife in Rwanda adventure, offering thrilling animal encounters both day and night
Rise early for an action-packed game drive in Akagera, tracking the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Your wildlife in Rwanda experience intensifies as you venture deeper into the park’s savannahs, witnessing Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife. Later, participate in a unique rhino tracking experience on foot, guided by expert conservationists. This immersive activity offers close encounters with these magnificent creatures while learning about conservation efforts. Akagera’s abundant wildlife and exceptional safari opportunities make this a standout day on your wildlife in Rwanda adventure
Your wildlife in Rwanda tour leads you to Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll track golden monkeys in the park’s misty bamboo forests. These lively primates add charm to Rwanda’s diverse wildlife offerings. After the trek, engage in a cultural tour, visiting local villages and learning about Rwandan traditions, music, and dance. This day blends wildlife encounters with cultural immersion, deepening your connection to Rwanda’s heritage and natural beauty. The integration of golden monkey trekking and cultural experiences enriches your wildlife in Rwanda adventure, offering a well-rounded exploration of the region
Guide will take you to Volcanoes National Park, where you will check in at the ranger station for a briefing. Trekking through the dense forest in search of mountain gorillas takes between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla family's location. Once found, you will spend one hour quietly observing them as they feed, groom, and interact. After trekking, lunch will be serve leaving for lake kivu, Enjoy a scenic drive to Lake Kivu, a peaceful retreat in your wildlife in Rwanda itinerary. The day is dedicated to relaxation and water-based activities, including kayaking, swimming, and boat rides to nearby islands. Explore lush landscapes and observe local fishermen at work, offering insight into lakeside life. Stunning sunsets over the water provide a perfect ending to a tranquil day. This refreshing break allows you to experience Rwanda’s serene side while complementing the adventurous wildlife encounters of your wildlife in Rwanda experience
On day 7 the wildlife in Rwanda itinerary takes an exciting turn with a biking tour along the famous Congo Nile Trail, passing through picturesque villages and lush plantations. Visit local coffee and tea farms, learning about Rwanda’s renowned agricultural industries while interacting with farmers. The cycling adventure offers scenic views and opportunities to experience Rwanda’s rural charm firsthand. This day showcases Rwanda’s landscapes beyond wildlife, adding a unique dimension to your wildlife in Rwanda exploration through eco-tourism and community engagement
Conclude your wildlife in Rwanda adventure with a return to Kigali, where a guided city tour introduces you to Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Explore key landmarks like the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and craft centers before heading to the airport for departure. This final day provides cultural insights and reflections on your journey. As you bid farewell, the unforgettable landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences of your wildlife in Rwanda tour ensure lasting memories of Rwanda’s extraordinary offerings