7 Days Best of Rwanda Wildlife Safari

Transfer to Musanze – Gateway to Volcanoes National Park

Your Rwandan adventure begins after a hearty breakfast with a scenic road transfer to Musanze, the town located near Volcanoes National Park. The journey from Kigali to Musanze covers roughly 80 to 90 kilometers and typically takes about two to three hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

As you travel through Rwanda’s rolling countryside, the landscape unfolds into verdant hills adorned with terraced farms, banana plantations, and patches of bamboo forest. This region, often described as “Switzerland of Africa,” captivates visitors with its breathtaking vistas and the warm hospitality of local communities. Occasional wildlife sightings, such as colorful birds or monkeys, add to the anticipation of your upcoming primate trekking adventures.

Upon arrival in Musanze, you will enjoy a freshly prepared lunch at your lodge before proceeding with preparations for the next day’s golden monkey tracking expedition. Musanze is an excellent base, known for its proximity to the Virunga Volcanoes, a chain of volcanic mountains harboring the endangered mountain gorillas and other rare species.

This first day allows you to acclimate, absorb the unique cultural atmosphere, and reflect on the exciting days ahead. Your accommodation will offer comfort amidst nature, with cozy amenities and attentive staff ready to enhance your stay.

• Accommodation: Volcanoes Lodge / Similar
• Meals: All meals and non-alcoholic drinks included

Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Golden monkey tracking is a rare and fascinating wildlife activity exclusive to the high-altitude forests of the Virunga Volcanoes region. After breakfast, you will meet your local expert guide who will accompany you through the lush montane forest in search of these playful, vibrant primates.

Golden monkeys are distinguished by their striking golden-orange fur and agile movements. Unlike their close relatives, the mountain gorillas, golden monkeys tend to move in larger, more social groups and display highly energetic, playful behavior that delights observers. As you trek through the forest, you will be surrounded by towering bamboo, moss-covered trees, and the fresh scent of rain.

The trek itself is moderately challenging, covering a few kilometers at altitudes often above 2,000 meters. Along the way, your 7 Days Best of Rwanda Wildlife Safari guide will share insights about the ecosystem, the monkeys’ social structures, and ongoing conservation initiatives aimed at protecting these endangered animals.

Observing the golden monkeys feeding, grooming, and playing in their natural habitat offers an intimate connection with wildlife rarely experienced elsewhere. These encounters highlight Rwanda’s commitment to conservation and ecotourism, providing both scientific knowledge and unforgettable memories.

After the trek, you will return to your lodge to relax and enjoy a delicious dinner. In the evening, consider reflecting on the day’s adventure while stargazing over the volcanic peaks.

• Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park
• Accommodation: Volcanoes Lodge / Similar
• Meals: All meals and drinking water included (other drinks excluded)

Chimpanzee Tracking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, is an ecological treasure trove and the destination for day three’s exhilarating activities. Early morning after breakfast, you will transfer to Nyungwe, known for its pristine biodiversity and extensive chimpanzee population.

The highlight of the day is chimpanzee tracking. With the assistance of 7 Days Best of Rwanda Wildlife Safari expert guides, you will hike through dense forests in pursuit of these intelligent and social primates. Nyungwe’s chimpanzees are among the most habituated in Africa, allowing for close yet respectful observation of their complex behaviors—from vocal communications and nest-building to grooming rituals.

Following the tracking, you will experience the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, a spectacular 50-meter suspension bridge elevated above the forest floor. Walking amidst the treetops provides a bird’s-eye view of the vast forest canopy, revealing a kaleidoscope of green foliage, elusive wildlife, and rare birds. The canopy walk is not only thrilling but also educational, offering unique perspectives on forest ecology and conservation.

The combination of ground-level primate trekking and elevated forest exploration ensures a comprehensive understanding of Nyungwe’s extraordinary environment. Throughout the day, your guide will provide fascinating commentary on the park’s flora, fauna, and the vital role it plays in regional climate stability and biodiversity conservation.

In the late afternoon, return to your lodge for rest and dinner, with opportunities to discuss your discoveries and plan for the journey ahead.

• Main Destination: Nyungwe National Park
• Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Lodge / Similar
• Meals: All meals and drinking water included (other drinks excluded)

Scenic Transfer to Kigali

After a memorable morning in Nyungwe, day four involves a scenic road transfer back to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital city. The drive offers spectacular views of rolling hills, patchwork farmlands, and quaint villages, providing a peaceful and reflective atmosphere after your forest adventures.

As you approach Kigali, you’ll notice the city’s blend of modernity and tradition, with bustling markets, innovative architecture, and a resilient community shaped by Rwanda’s history and recovery. Depending on your arrival time, you may have an opportunity to visit local craft markets or cultural centers to purchase authentic souvenirs and learn about Rwanda’s heritage.

Your accommodation in Kigali will provide a comfortable urban retreat, where you can relax and enjoy amenities such as fine dining and spa treatments. The evening is free for personal exploration or restful leisure.

Kigali also offers important historical sites, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a profound place to understand Rwanda’s past and the strength of its people in rebuilding the nation.

• Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel / Similar
• Meals: All meals and drinking water included (other drinks excluded)

Transfer to Akagera National Park and Lake Ihema Boat Cruise

Today marks your 7 Days Best of Rwanda Wildlife Safari journey eastward to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah and wetland ecosystem, renowned for its diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes. The drive from Kigali takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, offering views of vibrant rural scenes, rolling hills, and traditional homesteads.

Upon arrival at Akagera, if time permits, you will embark on a boat cruise on Lake Ihema—an exquisite freshwater lake teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species including African fish eagles, herons, and kingfishers. The boat cruise provides a serene vantage point to observe animals congregating along the water’s edge and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the African wilderness.

Following the cruise, you will check into your lodge or camp, which blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings and offers comfortable amenities. Enjoy the evening at leisure with dinner under the expansive African skies.

Akagera is home to the Big Five and has seen significant conservation success in recent years, making it an excellent destination for classic game drives and nature viewing.

• Main Destination: Akagera National Park
• Accommodation: Ruzizi Tented Lodge / Similar
• Meals: All meals and drinking water included (other drinks excluded)

Full-Day Game Drive in Akagera National Park

Prepare for an exciting day of wildlife discovery on a full-day game drive across Akagera National Park. This diverse park covers nearly 1,200 square kilometers and features a mosaic of savannah, woodland, swamps, and lakes.

Your 7 Days Best of Rwanda Wildlife Safari expert guide will navigate you through the park’s varied habitats to maximize wildlife sightings. You stand a strong chance of encountering the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—along with graceful giraffes, zebras, and elusive antelope species.

Akagera is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 500 bird species including the rare shoebill stork and vibrant lilac-breasted rollers. Photographers will relish the dramatic landscapes framed by acacia trees and the sparkling lakes.

Midday, you will enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot within the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature. The afternoon game drive continues with chances to observe predators hunting or animals quenching their thirst at waterholes.

Return to your lodge in the late afternoon for a well-deserved rest and a sumptuous dinner, completing your immersive day in Rwanda’s wilderness.

• Accommodation: Ruzizi Tented Lodge / Similar
• Meals: All meals and drinking water included (other drinks excluded)

Transfer Back to Kigali and Departure

Your 7 Days Best of Rwanda Wildlife Safari journey concludes with a transfer back to Kigali International Airport, a drive of about 2.5 to 3 hours. This scenic route allows you to revisit Rwanda’s rolling landscapes one last time, offering moments of reflection on the incredible wildlife and cultural experiences you have enjoyed.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a short city tour, including visits to notable sites such as the Giraffe Center or local markets, where you can pick up last-minute souvenirs or gifts.

Your 7 Days Best of Rwanda Wildlife Safari guide will ensure timely arrival at the airport and assist with check-in procedures. As you prepare to depart, you carry with you memories of Rwanda’s breathtaking natural beauty, the warmth of its people, and the awe-inspiring wildlife encounters that will stay with you forever.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch included