11-Day Rwanda Great Adventure Safaris

Tour Overview

This 11-day Rwanda Great Adventure Safaris itinerary blends gorilla trekking, Big Five game drives, rainforest hikes, and rich cultural experiences. Explore Nyungwe Forest, Akagera, Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu, and Kigali — all in one seamless journey. Perfect for travelers seeking immersive nature, wildlife, and cultural discovery in the heart of Rwanda.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Nyungwe Forest – Tea Plantation Tour

Arrive at Kigali International Airport where you’ll be met by your guide and transferred south to Nyungwe Forest. En route, stop for scenic views and a tea plantation tour to learn about Rwanda’s tea-growing culture.

Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel / One & Only Nyungwe House

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk

Start early for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park. Experience the thrill of encountering chimp troops in their natural habitat. Later, enjoy the Nyungwe canopy walk, offering panoramic rainforest views and chances to see birds and monkeys.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Day 3: Nature Walk – Colobus Monkeys & Waterfall Hike

Explore the forest on a guided nature walk, spotting black-and-white colobus monkeys and hiking to beautiful waterfalls hidden in the lush forest.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Day 4: Transfer to Akagera National Park – Boat Cruise & Evening Game Drive

Depart for Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park. Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ihema, followed by a sunset game drive to spot elephants, antelopes, and lions.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Akagera Game Lodge / Ruzizi Tented Lodge

Day 5: Early Game Drive – Big Five Safari & Rhino Tracking

Embark on an early morning Big Five game drive. Look out for lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos. Later, take part in an exciting rhino tracking on foot experience led by expert rangers.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Akagera Game Lodge / Ruzizi Tented Lodge

Day 6: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Cultural Tour

Drive north through Rwanda’s rolling hills to Volcanoes National Park. Visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for traditional dances, storytelling, and insight into Rwandan heritage.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Day 7: Gorilla Trekking & Twin Lakes Visit

Today is the highlight — gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After your unforgettable encounter, visit the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo for relaxation and scenic photography.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Day 8: Dian Fossey Tomb Hike & Transfer to Lake Kivu

Take a hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb, a tribute to her conservation legacy. Later, transfer to Lake Kivu, a peaceful lakeside town perfect for rest and reflection.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel / Paradise Kivu Resort

Day 9: Water Adventures & Community Tours

Enjoy a relaxed day at Lake Kivu with optional boat rides, kayaking, or fishing. Visit nearby communities to experience local life and crafts.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Day 10: Return to Kigali – City Discovery

Drive back to Kigali. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local art galleries, and craft markets. Reflect on Rwanda’s remarkable transformation and resilience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel / Heaven Boutique Hotel

Day 11: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Inclusions

Gorilla trekking permit
Chimpanzee trekking permit
All park entry fees for sites visited
All activities mentioned in the itinerary
Ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle
Full-board accommodation throughout the trip
Bottled drinking water during transfers and game drives
Professional English-speaking driver/guide
Driver allowances and park entry fees

Exclusions

International and domestic flights
Rwanda tourist visa fees
Travel insurance
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Laundry services, telephone calls, and personal expenses
Tips and gratuities for guides and hotel staff

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11-Day Rwanda Great Adventure Safaris