Rwanda · Primate Tours

10-Day Rwanda Safari with Gorilla Trekking and Nyungwe to Akagera

10 Days Round trip from Ruhengeri Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Rwanda's royal heritage at the historic King's Palace in Nyanza
  • 02 Trek for chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest and walk East Africa's thrilling canopy walkway
  • 03 Cruise Lake Kivu to Peace Island, Monkey Island, and Napoleon Island
  • 04 Come face-to-face with mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park
  • 05 Enjoy game drives and a sunset boat ride on Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park
  • 06 Visit Kigali's Genocide Memorial, local art galleries, and handmade souvenir markets

Embark on a 10-day journey through Rwanda, from the vibrant streets of Kigali to the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe, the peaceful shores of Lake Kivu, the volcano landscapes of Musanze, and the savannah of Akagera National Park. Experience Rwanda's rich culture and heritage, trek for chimpanzees and mountain gorillas, and enjoy classic wildlife safaris and boat trips on Lake Kivu and Lake Ihema. Along the way, discover tea plantations, royal history, local communities, hot springs, and Kigali's moving cultural landmarks. This itinerary brings together primate encounters, scenic beauty, and meaningful cultural experiences across the country.

Trek into the dense forest of Volcanoes National Park and come face-to-face with mountain gorillas.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 10 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Gisenyi, Ruhengeri, Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Kibuye, Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park
Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

10-Day Rwanda Safari Adventure

Day 1: Welcome to Kigali - The Heartbeat of Rwanda

Arrive in Kigali, a city where modern vibrancy meets deep cultural roots. After a warm welcome, dive into the lively streets, colorful markets, and local cafes. Let Kigali introduce you gently to the spirit of Rwanda.

Overnight: Nature Boutique Hotel (Kigali)
Alternative: Serena Hotel Kigali

Day 2: Royal Heritage & Journey to the Rainforest

Travel through Rwanda's scenic countryside, where rolling hills stretch endlessly. Pause in Nyanza to explore the historic King's Palace and step into Rwanda's royal past. Continue your journey into the mystical Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa's oldest rainforests.

Overnight: Nyungwe Nziza Ecolodge (Nyungwe area)
Alternative: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Day 3: Into the Wild - Chimpanzees & Canopy Walk

Wake before sunrise for an exhilarating chimpanzee trek and hear their calls echo through the forest. Later, walk above the treetops on East Africa's most thrilling canopy walkway, surrounded by mist and birdsong. Then, on the way to Kibuye, visit and experience a tea plantation.

Overnight: Home St Jean Hotel
Alternative: Bethany Hotel

Day 4: Lake Kivu Escape - Islands & Serenity

Descend from the forest to the peaceful shores of Lake Kivu. Enjoy a boat trip to Peace Island, Monkey Island, and the iconic Napoleon Island. Feel the calm rhythm of lake life as fishermen glide across golden waters.

Overnight: Home St Jean Hotel
Alternative: Bethany Hotel

Day 5: Congo Nile Trail Drive to Gisenyi (Rubavu)

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive along the Congo Nile Trail toward Gisenyi, with stunning views of Lake Kivu and the surrounding hills. Upon arrival, relax on the sandy lakeshore, visit the natural hot springs, and indulge in a traditional local massage for a rejuvenating experience.

Overnight: Paradis Malahide (Gisenyi/Rubavu)
Alternative: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (upper midrange)

Day 6: Cultural Experience & Volcano Landscapes

Journey north toward the breathtaking land of volcanoes. Along the way, visit Bigogwe for an authentic cultural experience: interact with local farmers, enjoy traditional entertainment, and take part in activities such as cow milking. Continue to Musanze and visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Campus to gain deeper insight into gorilla conservation and Rwanda's inspiring success story.

Overnight: Migano Hotel (Musanze)
Alternative: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Day 7: A Life-Changing Encounter - Gorilla Trekking

Today is the highlight of your journey. Trek into the dense forest of Volcanoes National Park and come face-to-face with mountain gorillas. It is a powerful, emotional experience that few places on Earth can offer. Later, transfer to Akagera National Park.

Overnight: Migano Hotel
Alternative: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Day 8: Into the Savannah - Akagera Adventure Begins

Travel to Akagera National Park, where Rwanda transforms into classic African savannah. Begin your safari journey, spotting giraffes, elephants, and antelopes against open plains and lakes. Then enjoy a sunset boat ride on Lake Ihema.

Overnight: Akagera Game Lodge or camping experience

Day 9: Full Safari Experience - Big Five Territory

Spend a full day exploring Akagera's diverse ecosystems. Track lions, rhinos, and more on game drives, and enjoy the park's breathtaking landscapes, from wetlands to rolling savannah. Later in the afternoon, transfer to Kigali.

Overnight: Nature Boutique Hotel (Kigali)
Alternative: Serena Hotel Kigali

Day 10: Kigali City Tour & Farewell

Return to Kigali for a meaningful cultural finale. Visit the Genocide Memorial, explore local art galleries, and shop for unique handmade souvenirs. Depart with unforgettable memories of Rwanda's beauty and resilience.

End of Tour

Nyungwe Forest National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu islands

Where this trip takes you

Nyungwe Forest National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu islands

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Ruhengeri 7 cities · 10 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Accommodation and breakfast (9 nights, midrange)
  • Private 4WD vehicle and professional guide
  • Gorilla permit in Volcanoes National Park
  • Chimpanzee permit and canopy walk in Nyungwe National Park
  • Park fees for Akagera National Park
  • Boat trips (Lake Kivu and Lake Ihema)
  • Cultural experiences and Kigali city tour (including Kigali Genocide Memorial)
  • Airport transfers
  • Bottled water
  • Government taxes
  • TourHQ commission fees

What's Not Included

  • Flights (international and domestic)
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Drinks (alcoholic and extra beverages)
  • Meals
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional activities

What to bring

  • Clothing: rain jacket and hiking boots
  • Protection from the sun
  • Personal essentials
  • Camera
  • Travel documents

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kigali International Airport Park, Kigali, Rwanda
Tour start
Ruhengeri, Rwanda
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 10 days finish where they began, in Ruhengeri.

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