Arrive at Kigali International Airport, the gateway to Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. Upon landing, you will be warmly welcomed by our dedicated airport executive, who will assist you with all arrival formalities for a smooth and stress-free entry into the country.

Once you are cleared, you will meet your professional driver-guide for a comfortable private transfer to your hotel in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean, safe, and vibrant capital city. Spend the rest of your day settling in, relaxing after your journey, and preparing for the incredible adventure ahead—featuring gorilla trekking, wildlife encounters, rich cultural experiences, and serene lakeside escapes.

Overnight in Kigali.

After breakfast, your professional guide will pick you up for a guided Kigali city tour, offering an insightful introduction to Rwanda’s rich culture and modern transformation. Visit key landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, and vibrant neighborhoods that showcase the city’s resilience and creativity.

Enjoy a delicious lunch in Kigali before beginning your scenic drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier Big Five safari destination located in the country’s eastern region. Upon arrival at your lodge and after settling in, experience a private sunset boat cruise on Lake Ihema, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife along the tranquil waters.

Relax at your lodge in the heart of nature as you prepare for the exciting wildlife adventures ahead.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah reserve and home to an impressive diversity of wildlife. Today’s journey takes you through the park’s most scenic region—renowned for its wide-open plains, rolling hills, and thriving ecosystems.

As you venture across the sweeping savannah, keep your camera ready for encounters with elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and numerous antelope species peacefully grazing under the African sun. This area also offers some of the best chances to spot elusive predators, including lions, leopards, and hyenas, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Akagera is equally rewarding for bird lovers, boasting a rich variety of species that flourish among the acacia woodlands and lakeshores. From dramatic viewpoints to lush valleys, every turn reveals a new landscape—ideal for photography and immersive safari experiences.

With its expansive horizons and unmistakable East African charm, this full-day game drive showcases the wild, untouched beauty of Rwanda and is truly one of the highlights of your Akagera safari adventure.

After an early breakfast, begin your journey toward Volcanoes National Park, the world-renowned sanctuary for the endangered Mountain Gorillas. Your guide will transfer you from Akagera to Kigali, where you will enjoy a relaxing lunch and a short break before continuing north toward Rwanda’s lush volcanic region.

In the afternoon, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a state-of-the-art conservation and research center dedicated to protecting Mountain Gorillas and preserving their high-altitude forest habitat. This world-class facility features interactive exhibits, immersive educational displays, and a modern architectural design inspired by Rwanda’s natural landscape.

Learn about Dian Fossey’s pioneering work, the ongoing research that supports gorilla families in the Virunga Mountains, and the country’s award-winning conservation efforts. The experience offers a powerful introduction to the remarkable world of Rwanda’s primates and sets the tone for your upcoming gorilla trekking adventure.

Continue to your lodge near Volcanoes National Park for a peaceful evening surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Virunga volcano chain.

Overnight near Volcanoes National Park.

Led by expert rangers, begin your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure deep within the lush rainforests of Volcanoes National Park. Your journey will take you through dense bamboo forests, moss-covered trees, and volcanic slopes as you follow tracks, calls, and subtle signs that reveal the presence of the gorilla families.

Once you locate your assigned gorilla group, you will spend a magical, awe-inspiring hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watch playful juveniles tumbling through the undergrowth, mothers gently caring for their young, and the powerful silverback keeping a watchful eye over his family.

This profound wildlife encounter—set against the dramatic backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes—is considered one of the most extraordinary experiences on Earth. It offers not only breathtaking memories but also a deeper appreciation for Rwanda’s conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these gentle giants for generations to come.

After breakfast, continue your journey to the southwestern shores of Lake Kivu, one of Rwanda’s largest freshwater lakes and a highlight of any East Africa itinerary. This peaceful region offers spectacular views, lush green hills, and a calm lakeside atmosphere—perfect for unwinding after your Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking experience.

Upon arrival at your Lake Kivu hotel, spend the rest of the day at leisure or choose from a variety of activities designed to showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness:

Optional Activities at Lake Kivu
Kayaking on Lake Kivu
Glide across the lake’s tranquil, crystal-clear waters surrounded by rolling hills and quiet fishing villages. This relaxing adventure offers peaceful moments, stunning landscapes, and an authentic connection to Rwanda’s natural environment.

Scenic Boat Cruise
Enjoy a gentle cruise on Lake Kivu, passing lush green islands, terraced hillsides, and traditional lakeside communities. Feel the cool breeze as you take in Rwanda’s breathtaking lakeshore scenery—ideal for photography and unwinding in nature.

Tea Plantation Visit
Explore one of Rwanda’s famous tea estates. Walk through vibrant green fields, learn about the planting and harvesting process, and tour the processing factory. End your visit with a freshly brewed cup of premium Rwandan tea overlooking the plantation.

Spend the evening relaxing at your lodge, enjoying the serene views of Lake Kivu as the sun sets behind the hills.

Enjoy a relaxed morning on the serene shores of Lake Kivu, taking in the panoramic views of one of Rwanda’s most beautiful freshwater lakes. Depending on your flight schedule, savor a slow breakfast or enjoy a short lakeside walk before beginning your transfer back to Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda.

Upon arrival, enjoy a farewell lunch in Kigali, where you can reflect on your unforgettable safari experiences, from Akagera National Park to the powerful encounter with Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.

After lunch, you will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport for your departure flight home.

This marks the end of your remarkable Rwanda journey—an immersive blend of wildlife, culture, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes.