5 days Rwanda gorillas and Akagera wildlife safari

Embark on a 5-day Rwanda gorilla and Akagera wildlife safari for an unparalleled gorilla encounter and a fulfilling safari experience. While Rwanda is renowned for its gorilla tracking adventures, this comprehensive itinerary reveals the lesser-known but equally captivating side of the country—a remarkable African safari experience.

During this 5-day expedition, you’ll venture into Akagera National Park for an immersive safari, witnessing diverse wildlife amidst breathtaking landscapes. From there, your journey continues to Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll partake in an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure amidst the mist-shrouded jungles of the Virunga mountains. Don’t miss the chance to explore both facets of Rwanda’s natural wonders in this enriching 5-day safari.

Day 1

Pick up and transfer to Akagera National Park

Engage in a brief morning game drive and a captivating boat safari. Your journey kicks off from Kigali at 7:30 am as you head east to the picturesque Akagera National Park. Upon arrival, embark on a game drive to encounter a variety of wildlife, followed by checking in at your chosen lodge. In the afternoon, an exhilarating boat trip awaits on Lake Ihema, the park’s largest lake, providing the perfect opportunity to observe an abundance of water animals and diverse bird species. Keep an eye out for the common sightings of crocodiles and hippos.

Highlights:

Morning game drive to spot wildlife.
Afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema with a focus on water animals and birdwatching.

Optional Activity: Night game drive: Explore the nocturnal wildlife during a 2.5-hour safari starting at 6 pm.

Accommodation Options:

Midrange: Akagera Game Lodge
Upmarket: Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Luxury: Magashi Camp.

Day 2

Morning game drive and afternoon at leisure

Begin your day with an enriching morning game drive, expanding your exploration to different parts of Akagera National Park. This allows for increased animal sightings and provides an opportunity to soak in the captivating scenery that surrounds you.

Following the morning adventure, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Whether you choose to relax at the lodge, indulge in optional activities, or simply absorb the tranquility of the park, this free time offers a chance to personalize your experience.

Highlights:

Morning game drive for extended wildlife encounters and scenic exploration.

Optional Activities (Choose based on preferences):

Relaxation at the lodge.
Engagement in additional park activities.

Make the most of your leisurely afternoon in this remarkable natural setting.

Day 3

Full game drive and transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Commence your day with an early breakfast, setting out at 6:00 am for an immersive full-day game drive across Akagera National Park. Traverse diverse habitats, witnessing a plethora of wildlife in their natural surroundings. This extensive 6-hour journey begins in the south of the park at your lodge, leading you through various landscapes to the Kilala plains in the north, renowned for offering optimal animal sightings in expansive open plains. By noon, conclude the game drive and proceed to Volcanoes National Park in the northern region of Rwanda.

Highlights:

Early breakfast and departure for a comprehensive 6-hour game drive.
Exploration of diverse habitats and abundant wildlife.
Arrival at the Kilala plains for exceptional animal sightings.

Accommodation Options:

Budget: La Locanda
Midrange: Le Bamboo Gorilla Lodge
Upmarket: Five Volcanoes Lodge/The Bishop’s House
Luxury: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge/Virunga Lodge

Select from a range of accommodation options to suit your preferences and enjoy a seamless transition from the wildlife-rich Akagera to the enchanting Volcanoes National Park.

Day 4

Gorilla tracking in the Virungas

Begin your day by waking early, enjoying breakfast by 6:30 am, and then proceeding to the park office in Kinigi. Here, you’ll be allocated to a gorilla group and receive a briefing on gorilla tracking etiquette, setting the stage for an extraordinary gorilla tracking adventure.

Transfer to the base of the Virunga mountains and embark on the trek, immersing yourself in the ultimate gorilla experience. Traverse the lush landscapes and misty jungles, encountering these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Highlights:

Early rise and breakfast by 6:30 am.
Allocation to a gorilla group and briefing on gorilla tracking etiquette.
Transfer to the base of the Virunga mountains for the gorilla trekking adventure.

After the gorilla trek, the remainder of the day is yours to spend at leisure. Whether you choose to unwind at the lodge or engage in optional activities, savor the memories of this unique and enriching experience.

Day 5

Transfer to Kigali

Following breakfast, embark on your journey back to Kigali.

Optional Morning Activities: Before heading to Kigali, consider engaging in one of the following optional activities:

Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes N.P: Experience the captivating beauty of golden monkeys, unique to the Virunga mountains. Found in bamboo forests at the base of the mountains, these monkeys offer an exciting encounter and excellent opportunities for photography.
Gorilla Guardians Village Cultural Tour: Immerse yourself in Rwandan cultures and traditions by visiting the Gorilla Guardians Village. Local guides, many of whom are former poachers in Volcanoes National Park, will provide insights into different aspects of Rwanda’s rich heritage during this 1-hour tour.
Mukungwa River Canoe Trip: Opt for a 3 to 4-hour canoe adventure along the Mukungwa River. Explore the lush countryside, take in the scenic landscape, and gain insights into the lives of local communities.

Choose the activity that resonates most with your interests for a fulfilling morning before your transfer back to Kigali.

This comprehensive tour package includes the following:

Inclusions:

Tour car and experienced driver/guide
All meals provided throughout the tour
Accommodation at selected lodges or camps
Gorilla tracking permit valued at $1500
All safaris and activities as outlined in the itinerary
Provision of drinking water during the tour

Exclusions:

Optional activities (as specified in the itinerary)
Visa fees
Personal insurance coverage
Airfares for travel to and from the tour destination
Tips for guides, drivers, and other service providers
All personal expenses such as laundry, phone bills, and souvenir purchases

Please note that the mentioned inclusions and exclusions offer a clear understanding of the tour’s coverage and additional costs that may be incurred.

5 days Rwanda gorillas and Akagera wildlife safari

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5 days Rwanda gorillas and Akagera wildlife safari

Pick up and transfer to Akagera National Park

Morning game drive and afternoon at leisure