Tour Overview
Discover the very best of Rwanda on this unforgettable 7-day journey through the country’s spectacular landscapes, vibrant culture, and extraordinary wildlife. From the bustling streets of Kigali to the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe National Park, the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, and the mist-covered volcanoes that shelter the endangered mountain gorillas, this safari offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.
Track wild chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest, enjoy scenic boat experiences on Lake Kivu, explore Rwanda’s fascinating history and heritage, and experience the life-changing opportunity of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. With breathtaking scenery, comfortable accommodations, and expert local guides throughout, this itinerary showcases why Rwanda is one of Africa’s most rewarding travel destinations.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional driver-guide and transferred to your hotel in Kigali. Depending on your arrival time, relax after your journey or enjoy the hotel’s facilities as you prepare for your Rwandan adventure.
Accommodation: Heaven Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Bed & Breakfast
Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
After breakfast, depart Kigali for the scenic drive to Nyungwe National Park in southwestern Rwanda. Along the way, stop in Huye (formerly Butare) to visit the Ethnographic Museum, one of East Africa’s finest museums, offering fascinating insights into Rwanda’s history, traditions, and cultural heritage. Enjoy lunch before continuing through Rwanda’s beautiful rolling hills and tea plantations to Nyungwe National Park. Arrive in the evening, check into your lodge, and relax before dinner.
Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking & Nature Walk
Rise early for breakfast before heading to Nyungwe Forest National Park for an exciting chimpanzee trekking experience. Accompanied by experienced park rangers, venture into one of Africa’s oldest rainforests in search of habituated chimpanzees while also spotting other primates, colorful birds, and unique plant species. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.
Later in the afternoon, enjoy a guided nature walk to the beautiful Kamiranzovu Waterfall, exploring the rich biodiversity that makes Nyungwe one of Africa’s premier rainforest destinations.
Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Transfer to Lake Kivu
After breakfast, continue your journey to the picturesque shores of Lake Kivu. Upon arrival, check into your lakeside lodge and enjoy lunch overlooking one of Africa’s Great Lakes. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the lake, taking a boat cruise to nearby islands, or exploring the charming town of Gisenyi with its colonial architecture, local markets, and scenic waterfront.
Accommodation: Kivu Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, depart Lake Kivu for Volcanoes National Park, enjoying spectacular views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and volcanic landscapes. En route, visit the historic Imbabazi Heritage Centre, founded by Rosamond Halsey Carr, where you’ll learn about her inspiring humanitarian work in Rwanda.
Continue to Musanze and visit the scenic Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, renowned for their breathtaking scenery and panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Later, proceed to your lodge near Volcanoes National Park for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure. Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, hike through the bamboo forests in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. Once found, spend one magical hour observing these magnificent primates in their natural habitat—an experience regarded as one of Africa’s greatest wildlife encounters.
After returning from the trek, enjoy lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge. Alternatively, you may visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, explore the local market, or take a guided community walk.
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Kigali City Tour & Departure
After breakfast, check out and drive back to Kigali. Depending on your departure schedule, enjoy a guided city tour featuring the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, art galleries, or the Kigali Cultural Village. This is also an excellent opportunity to purchase authentic Rwandan souvenirs before your transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
End of the 7 Days Best of Rwanda Tour