A Unforgettable 7 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari
Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a jewel of East Africa, offering a remarkable blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture.
A 7 Days Rwanda Wildlife promises an immersive journey through the country’s premier national parks—Akagera, Nyungwe Forest, and Volcanoes—where travelers can encounter mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, the Big Five, and a host of other wildlife.
From thrilling game drives to serene boat cruises and cultural excursions, this safari showcases Rwanda’s natural wonders and conservation success.
Why Choose a 7 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari?
Rwanda’s compact size—about 26,338 square kilometers—makes it ideal for a week-long safari, allowing travelers to explore diverse ecosystems without long travel times.
Akagera National Park offers classic savannah wildlife experiences, Nyungwe Forest is a primate paradise, and Volcanoes National Park is home to the iconic mountain gorillas.
Combined with Rwanda’s clean, safe capital, Kigali, and its welcoming culture, a 7-day safari delivers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.
The itinerary below, inspired by operators like Explore Rwanda Tours and Kagera Safaris, covers the best of Rwanda’s wildlife and heritage.
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Detailed Itinerary: 7 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Akagera National Park
Your adventure begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, known as one of East Africa’s cleanest cities. Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide, who may be driving a 4×4 safari vehicle arranged through a trusted provider for cross-border travelers.
After a brief city tour visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre—a poignant reminder of Rwanda’s resilience—you’ll embark on a 2.5-hour drive (120 km) to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park.
Check into a lodge-like Ruzizi Tented Camp (luxury) or Akagera Game Lodge (mid-range) for dinner and relaxation.
In the evening, enjoy an optional night game drive ($40 per person) to spot nocturnal animals like leopards or hyenas, setting the tone for your wildlife adventure.
Day 2: Game Drive and Boat Cruise in Akagera National Park
Wake up early for a hearty breakfast, then set out on a 4-hour morning game drive in Akagera’s northern sector, a 1,122-square-kilometer expanse of savannah, wetlands, and lakes.
Guided by an expert ranger, you’ll search for the Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo—reintroduced through conservation efforts.
The park also teems with zebras, giraffes, hippos, and antelopes like impala and topi. With over 500 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork, Akagera is a birder’s paradise.
After lunch at your lodge, head to Lake Ihema, Rwanda’s second-largest freshwater lake, for a 1–2-hour boat cruise. This serene experience offers close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds like African fish eagles and papyrus gonoleks. Return to your lodge for dinner, reflecting on the day’s sightings.
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, depart Akagera for a 4–5-hour drive (200 km) to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda’s northern Musanze province. The scenic journey winds through Rwanda’s rolling hills, with stopovers for photos or souvenirs at Huye or Butare.
Arrive in time for lunch at a lodge like Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel (luxury) or Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge (mid-range).
In the afternoon, explore the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village near the park, where you’ll experience traditional Rwandan dances, crafts, and stories from reformed poachers now dedicated to conservation.
This cultural immersion complements the wildlife focus, offering insights into Rwanda’s heritage. Dinner and overnight at your lodge prepare you for the next day’s highlight.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is the pinnacle of your safari: gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, home to 370 mountain gorillas, nearly half the world’s population. After an early breakfast, head to the Kinigi park headquarters for a 7:00 AM briefing by rangers.
You’ll be assigned one of 10 habituated gorilla families, with groups limited to eight trekkers for conservation. The trek, lasting 2–8 hours, involves hiking through misty forests and rugged terrain, guided by expert trackers.
Encountering a gorilla family is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with one hour to observe these gentle giants as they feed, play, or groom. Silverback gorillas, weighing 350–450 pounds, are particularly imposing yet serene.
Return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation, or opt for an evening visit to the Dian Fossey Tomb to learn about her conservation legacy.
Day 5: Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Lake Kivu
Start the day with golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park, a lighter activity lasting 3–5 hours. These critically endangered primates, with their vibrant golden fur, are playful and photogenic.
After a morning briefing, trek through bamboo forests to spend an hour with a habituated group of up to 80 individuals. Return to the lodge for lunch, then drive 2–3 hours (100 km) to Lake Kivu in Gisenyi.
Check into a lakeside lodge like Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (luxury) or Peace Guest House (budget). Spend the evening relaxing by the lake, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, known for its scenic beauty and methane reserves. A sunset canoe ride or swim offers a tranquil end to the day.
Day 6: Boat Cruise on Lake Kivu and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest
After breakfast, embark on a morning boat cruise on Lake Kivu, exploring its islands and interacting with local fishermen. Spot birds like pied kingfishers and white-breasted cormorants while enjoying the lake’s serene ambiance.
Return for lunch, then drive 4–5 hours (200 km) to Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwestern Rwanda, a pristine montane rainforest.
Arrive at Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel (mid-range) or Nyungwe Forest Lodge (luxury) for check-in. In the late afternoon, take a guided nature walk to spot primates like L’Hoest’s monkeys or Ruwenzori colobus.
With over 310 bird species and 13 primate species, Nyungwe is a biodiversity hotspot. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking, Canopy Walk, and Return to Kigali
Your final day begins with a chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe’s Kyamudongo forest. After a 6:00 AM breakfast and briefing, trek 3–6 hours to find habituated chimpanzee group ps, known for their lively chatter and tree-hopping antics.
Spend an hour observing these close relatives, alongside other primates like grey-cheeked mangabeys.
After lunch, experience Nyungwe’s canopy walkway, a 50-meter-long swing bridge suspended 60 meters above the forest. This 2-hour walk offers panoramic views and chances to spot birds and monkeys.
Depart Nyungwe for a 5–6-hour drive (230 km) back to Kigali, stopping at the Butare Ethnographic Museum or Nyanza Royal Palace for cultural insights. Arrive in Kigali for a farewell dinner or transfer to the airport, concluding your safari.
End of the 7 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari
Practical Tips for Planning Your Safari
Best Time to Visit
Rwanda’s dry seasons—June to September and December to February—are ideal for safaris, offering clear trails and better wildlife sightings.
The wet seasons (March-May, October–November) bring lush scenery but muddy roads, so ensure your rental vehicle is a reliable 4×4. Early bookings are advised for peak seasons.
Permits and Costs
- Gorilla Trekking Permit: $1,500 per person, bookable through the Rwanda Development Board or tour operators.
- Chimpanzee Trekking Permit: $150 per person.
- Golden Monkey Trekking Permit: $100 per person.
- Park Entry Fees: $30–$40 for game drives, $20–$40 for boat cruises.
Packing Essentials
Pack light but include:
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots for trekking.
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for forest protection.
- Rain jacket, as rain is common in Volcanoes and Nyungwe.
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat for savannah outings.
- Camera (no flash) and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Reusable water bottles and snacks for long treks.
Health and Safety
Consult a healthcare provider for yellow fever vaccination (required) and malaria prophylaxis. Respect wildlife by maintaining a 7-meter distance during treks and following ranger instructions. Stay hydrated and carry a packed lunch for gorilla and chimpanzee treks.
Cultural and Conservation Impact
Rwanda’s safari industry supports conservation and community development. Gorilla trekking permits fund the protection of mountain gorillas, whose numbers have risen to over 1,000 due to efforts by the Rwanda Development Board and partners like the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
Visiting cultural sites like Iby’iwacu supports local livelihoods, while eco-friendly lodges like Ruzizi Tented Camp promote sustainable tourism.
By choosing responsible operators and respecting wildlife guidelines, you contribute to Rwanda’s conservation success.
In conclusion, our 7 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari is a transformative journey through one of Africa’s most captivating destinations.
From the savannahs of Akagera to the rainforests of Nyungwe and the gorilla-filled slopes of Volcanoes, this itinerary delivers thrilling wildlife encounters, cultural richness, and scenic beauty.