Day 1Kigali

Arrival in Kigali

Welcome to Rwanda‘s capital, Kigali! A representative will assist you through customs, immigration and  hotel check-in. This vibrant and exciting city has plenty to offer – try local specialties like the brochette (a shish kebab with either meat or fish) or a large tilapia (grilled fish with onions and spices). 

Cows are incredibly important to Rwandan culture as they symbolize wealth, prosperity and identity. This is why milk bars can be found across the city – look out for a drawing of a cow on the door! Rwanda also produces some of the best coffees in the world, be sure to try these cups of goodness at Question Coffee and Inzora Rooftop Cafe. 

Kigali’s art scene is on the rise. Unique and contemporary Rwandan arts can be found everywhere – head to Inema Arts Center, which houses some of the country’s best and brightest talents. 

Day 2&3Akagera National Park

Kigali City Tour & Akagera National Park

Experience Kigali’s bustling energy when you visit Kimironko Market. Make sure to get your hands on some beautiful Agaseke baskets, unique to Rwanda. Then, learn and discover the country’s tragic past at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a place of remembrance that honours the victims of the devastating 1994 genocide. 

Kick-start your safari adventure with a scenic helicopter ride to Akagera National Park! Located in Eastern Rwanda, the park is Central Africa’s largest protected wetland and the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species in the region. Spot zebras, giraffes, elephants, lions and hundreds of bird species in this pristine wetland. 

Do not miss the chance to hop on a private boat and sail around Lake Rwanyakazinga on a swamp cruiser for excellent views of the region’s water birds and other aquatic animals. Home to more than 500 species of birds, Akagera is known as one of the best bird-watching areas in the world. Be sure to grab your binoculars for an up close encounter with some of the region’s unique feathered creatures. No safari trip is complete without thrilling game drives – look out for the lumbering hippos, zebras as well as the rare lions and black rhinos. After sunset, you will be treated to an exclusive night game drive when leopards are often spotted roaming around. 

Day 4&5Volcanoes National Park

Meet the Mountain Gorillas

Start the day with a delicious breakfast spread before heading off on a half-day adventure around the camp’s lush surroundings. Try and spot some of the amazing wildlife: from wandering lions to the herds of water buffaloes, there’s much to discover before proceeding back to Kigali on a helicopter. When you touch down, a private transfer will be waiting to take you to your safari lodge near the Volcanoes National Park. Covered by a sprawling rainforest, this aptly-named national park boasts no fewer than five volcanoes in its vicinity. 

The highlight of the trip is none other than the once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla tracking experience. With a friendly park guide by your side, traverse into the national park to enjoy an exclusive opportunity to get an up close and personal encounter with these gentle giants —  an experience that is truly unique to Rwanda! On your hike, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the endangered golden monkeys, native to this region, playing high up in the trees. 

Finally, spend the rest of the day by taking part in a list of relaxing activities such as wine tasting, nature walks, biodiversity talks by local guides and a visit to the community beehive project. 

Day 6

Departure

All good things must come to an end — it’s time to bid Rwanda farewell. Enjoy your breakfast with a spectacular view of the wilderness before you are chauffeured back to Kigali for your flight home or to the next African destination.