Rwanda · Wildlife

9-Day Rwanda Cultural Tour and Gorilla Trekking from Kigali

9 Days Round trip from Kigali Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Discover Kigali's history and culture at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kandt Museum, Bugesera, Nyamata, and Ntarama
02 Explore Akagera National Park on game drives and a boat ride on Lake Ihema to spot elephants, lions, rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife
03 Encounter a mountain gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park during an unforgettable trekking experience
04 Visit the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo and engage with community projects such as brick-making and beekeeping
05 Relax on the shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi and taste local banana and sorghum beer

Embark on an extraordinary 9-day journey through Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills. This cultural and wildlife adventure begins and ends in Kigali, Rwanda's vibrant capital, and combines city history, memorial visits, community encounters, and safari experiences. Explore Akagera National Park on game drives and a boat ride on Lake Ihema, visit the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, and come face to face with majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. The journey also includes time at Lake Kivu and a cultural visit to Butare, creating a rich and memorable experience across Rwanda.

Embark on an extraordinary 9-day journey through Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Butare, Gisenyi, Ruhengeri, Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park

Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kigali

Welcome to Rwanda!
Upon arrival, your friendly tour guide will greet you and transfer you to your preferred hotel in Kigali.
On the way, you will be briefed about the exciting activities ahead.
Spend the night in Kigali, filled with anticipation for the cultural and wildlife adventures to come.

Day 02

Kigali City Tour and Genocide Memorial Visits

Start your day with a delicious Rwandan breakfast before embarking on a tour of Kigali.
Visit Kigali Solaire, Stade Regional, the Kigali Genocide Memorial, the Kandt Museum, and the Belgian Camp to learn about Rwanda's history and culture.
In the afternoon, visit the reconciliation village in Bugesera, as well as the Nyamata and Ntarama genocide churches.
Return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 03

Journey to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, journey to Akagera National Park.
En route, enjoy lunch and visit the Imigongo Art Center to practise ancient artisan techniques.
Witness the stunning Rusumo Waterfalls before continuing to Akagera National Park.

Check in to your safari lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 04

Morning Game Drive and Cultural Village Visit

Begin your day with an early morning game drive in Akagera National Park.
Look out for elephants, lions, rhinos, antelopes, zebras, buffalos, and various bird species.
After lunch, visit a local pastoralist community for a cultural heritage experience.

Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 05

Lake Ihema Boat Trip and Evening Game Drive

Enjoy a stunning boat ride on Lake Ihema to spot crocodiles, hippos, and water birds.
After lunch and some relaxation, embark on an evening game drive to spot more wildlife.

Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 06

Twin Lakes and Community Encounters

Transfer to Ruhengeri for an ethnobotany tour, visiting the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
Engage with community projects such as brick-making and beekeeping.
Proceed to Musanze for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 07

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

An early start takes you to the briefing point for your gorilla trekking adventure.
Equipped with essentials such as hiking boots and rain jackets, trek through the misty highlands until you encounter a gorilla family.
Spend an unforgettable hour with these majestic creatures before visiting Buhanga Forest for a Kinigi Cultural Village experience.

Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 08

Lake Kivu Community Tour and Gisenyi Excursion

Check out from your lodge and transfer to Lake Kivu.
Visit banana and sorghum beer production plants to taste local brews.
Spend the day relaxing by the shores of Lake Kivu.

Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 09

Butare Cultural Visit and Return to Kigali

After breakfast, travel to Butare, the intellectual heart of Rwanda.
Visit the Basilica of Kabagayi, the ancient King's Palace at Nyanza, and the National Museum.
Conclude your journey with a return to Kigali, where you will be dropped off at the airport or your hotel.

Where this trip takes you

Akagera National Park savannah, Lake Ihema waterways, Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, Volcanoes National Park highlands

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kigali 6 cities · 9 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Airport transfers
Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
Transportation by safari vehicle
Gorilla trekking permits
Visit to Lake Kivu and boat ride
All mentioned activities

What's Not Included

Airfares
Rwanda visa
Luxury drinks
Laundry
Tips to the local guide
Telephone fees
Porter fees during trekking
Personal insurance and shopping
Any other item not mentioned above

What to bring

Travel documents.
Gorilla trekking permit.
Clothing depends on the season:
- Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants (for gorilla trekking and protection against insects).
- Warm clothing (for cool evenings and early mornings).
- Waterproof jacket/raincoat.
- Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots.
- Hat and sunglasses.

Know before you go

Gorilla trekking permit: Ensure you have obtained a gorilla trekking permit in advance, as permits are limited and must be booked early.
Weather conditions: Rwanda's weather can vary, so pack accordingly. Bring lightweight clothing for warmer days and warm layers for cooler evenings and early mornings.
Health precautions: Consult your healthcare provider for necessary vaccinations and medications, especially malaria prevention.
Respect for wildlife: While observing gorillas, maintain a respectful distance and follow the guidance of park rangers to ensure the safety of both humans and gorillas.
Cultural sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting cultural villages and communities. Ask for permission before taking photos of people.
Environmental conservation: Practise responsible tourism by minimising your environmental impact. Avoid littering and follow park regulations.
Safety: Follow safety guidelines from your tour guide or park authorities, especially during wildlife encounters and outdoor activities.
Currency and payment: Rwanda's currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Carrying cash for small purchases is advisable, as not all places may accept credit cards.
Language: While English is widely spoken in Rwanda, learning a few basic phrases in Kinyarwanda can enhance your cultural experience and interactions with locals.

Logistics