Experience the remarkable landscapes, wildlife and culture of the Land of a Thousand Hills on our 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour, a private journey designed to reveal Rwanda’s most celebrated destinations. From the bustling streets of Kigali and the savannah of Akagera to the misty Virunga Mountains, peaceful Lake Kivu and ancient forests of Nyungwe, every destination introduces you to a different side of this beautiful country.
Your adventure begins in Kigali before continuing to Akagera National Park for game drives and a Lake Ihema boat safari. Next, visit Volcanoes National Park for mountain gorilla and golden monkey trekking , followed by lakeside relaxation and guided primate encounters in Nyungwe Forest National Park . The 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour brings these diverse experiences together in one rewarding itinerary.
Travelling with Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours , you will enjoy private ground transportation, knowledgeable safari guiding and carefully selected accommodation. Whether this is your first visit to Rwanda or a special wildlife holiday, the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour combines adventure, conservation, culture and comfortable travel. The schedule can be tailored to your preferred travel dates and lodge availability.
ENQUIRE NOW10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour Highlights
- Guided Kigali city sightseeing and a respectful visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
- Game drives in Akagera National Park, home to Rwanda’s Big Five.
- Boat safari on Lake Ihema, with hippos, crocodiles and waterbirds.
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
- Golden monkey tracking in the Virunga bamboo forests.
- Scenic views of Lakes Burera and Ruhondo.
- Relaxation and lakeside scenery at Lake Kivu.
- Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
- Guided canopy walkway and black-and-white colobus monkey encounters.
- Private safari vehicle, professional guiding and selected luxury lodges.
The 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour is designed for travellers who want both Rwanda’s iconic wildlife experiences and time to appreciate its landscapes and hospitality.
Detailed 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour and Kigali Genocide Memorial
Welcome to Rwanda! A representative of Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours will meet you at Kigali International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in and time to refresh, begin your introduction to the capital if your arrival time allows. Your guide will take you through Kigali’s attractive neighbourhoods and explain how the city has developed into a vibrant cultural and commercial centre.
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial , a place of remembrance for victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The exhibitions offer important historical context and an opportunity for quiet reflection. You may also visit Kimironko Market to experience local trading, colourful textiles, fresh produce and everyday city life. Return to the hotel for dinner and relaxation before the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour continues east the next morning.
Day 2: Kigali to Akagera National Park – Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, leave Kigali for Akagera National Park , approximately two to three hours from the capital’s eastern outskirts to the southern entrance, depending on traffic and road conditions. The landscape gradually changes from cultivated hills to beautiful lakes, rolling savannah and woodland as you approach Rwanda’s only savannah national park.
Check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch before taking an afternoon game drive. Look for zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, impalas, waterbucks and elephants, with the possibility of encountering predators. Your guide will explain the park’s conservation story and diverse ecosystems. The Akagera experience gives the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour its classic African wildlife safari element, with a peaceful evening overlooking the landscape or Lake Ihema.
Day 3: Akagera Game Drive and Lake Ihema Boat Safari
Rise early for a morning game drive across Akagera’s savannah tracks, when the cooler hours can offer rewarding wildlife viewing. The park supports lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses, although no particular sighting is guaranteed. You may also encounter giraffes, zebras, antelopes and a remarkable variety of birds against the backdrop of sweeping hills and wetlands.
After lunch, enjoy a scheduled boat safari on Lake Ihema , exploring the lakeshore and nearby papyrus habitats. Watch for hippos, Nile crocodiles, fish eagles, kingfishers and other aquatic wildlife. The elusive shoebill may occur in suitable wetland habitat but should never be promised. Return to your lodge to relax and enjoy dinner. This combination of road and water-based wildlife viewing is a memorable part of the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour.
Day 4: Transfer from Akagera to Volcanoes National Park
Enjoy breakfast before setting out on the scenic journey north to Volcanoes National Park . Travelling via the Kigali region, you will pass through Rwanda’s famous rolling hills, agricultural villages and increasingly dramatic mountain scenery. Allow roughly five to six hours or longer for this transfer, depending on the chosen route and sightseeing stops.
Arrive near Musanze and Kinigi, gateway to the volcanic landscapes of the Virunga Mountains. Check into your lodge and spend the afternoon unwinding, taking photographs or enjoying views of the surrounding countryside. Your guide will explain the following morning’s gorilla trekking procedures and help you prepare appropriate clothing and equipment. On the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour, this quieter afternoon helps you rest before one of the journey’s most anticipated experiences.
Day 5: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters at Kinigi for registration and a briefing from the park authorities. You will be assigned to a habituated mountain gorilla family according to the day’s allocations, with consideration given to trekking conditions and fitness. Accompanied by park rangers, guides and trackers, follow forest trails through bamboo and montane vegetation in search of these endangered primates.
The hike can be short or demanding depending on the gorillas’ movements, but the reward is extraordinary: once your group reaches the family, you may spend up to one hour observing its members feeding, resting and interacting. Follow ranger instructions, maintain the required distance and avoid flash photography. After trekking, return to the lodge for lunch or a late meal and a relaxing afternoon. Gorilla trekking is the defining wildlife moment of the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour.
Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking, Twin Lakes and Lake Kivu
Begin the morning with golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park, an experience that takes you into bamboo forest where these energetic, brightly coloured primates leap and feed in the vegetation. After registering and attending the park briefing, follow your guide to a habituated group and observe their lively behaviour. The 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour includes this second primate encounter to complement your mountain gorilla experience.
After the activity, enjoy lunch and, if time permits, a scenic visit to viewpoints overlooking Lakes Burera and Ruhondo. Continue west to Lake Kivu and check in at your lakeside hotel in Rubavu. Spend the evening enjoying the tranquil water, distant hills and refreshing lakeside atmosphere. A short optional boat trip may be arranged separately, subject to arrival time and weather.
Day 7: Scenic Lake Kivu Drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, begin a full scenic travel day south from Rubavu towards Nyungwe Forest National Park . Where road conditions permit, the route follows parts of the spectacular Lake Kivu corridor via Karongi and the Rusizi region, revealing lakeside settlements, terraced hills and beautiful rural scenery. Your guide will plan reasonable stops for photography, refreshments and lunch.
This is a long transfer, and the final route and travel time depend on road conditions. We prioritise a comfortable daylight journey rather than rushing through unrelated attractions. Arrive near Gisakura, check in and relax amid tea plantations and rainforest views. The 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour now moves from volcanic mountains and lake scenery into one of Africa’s remarkable montane forests.
Day 8: Chimpanzee Tracking and Nyungwe Canopy Walk
Wake before dawn for your scheduled chimpanzee tracking excursion in Nyungwe. The reporting point and start time depend on the chimpanzee community assigned by the park authorities, so your guide will confirm the arrangements in advance. Follow expert trackers into the forest, listening for calls from the canopy and watching for movement among the trees. Once located, you may enjoy up to one hour observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat, subject to park rules and conditions.
After the trek, return for a meal and rest. If the activity schedule and your energy permit, continue to Uwinka Visitor Centre for the famous canopy walkway, suspended high above the rainforest floor. From the bridges, admire sweeping forest views and listen for birds and other primates. The 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour combines an active early morning with an unforgettable perspective over the forest canopy.
Day 9: Black-and-White Colobus Monkey Tracking and Forest Relaxation
Enjoy breakfast before meeting your guide for a colobus monkey tracking experience in Nyungwe Forest. These striking black-and-white primates often gather in large troops, moving through the treetops in search of leaves and other food. Depending on the group and tracking location, the outing can involve a rewarding forest walk with opportunities to observe birds, vegetation and additional monkey species.
Return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. For energetic travellers, an afternoon visit to the scenic Isumo Waterfall Trail may be considered if permits, timing and walking conditions allow; otherwise, enjoy the lodge’s beautiful tea plantation setting and wellness facilities. With its mixture of active discovery and restful forest surroundings, this day gives the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour a satisfying final full day in nature.
Day 10: Nyungwe to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, check out and begin the scenic return journey to Kigali. Allow approximately five to six hours or more, depending on your lodge, road conditions and planned stops. If your international flight is late enough, you may pause in the Huye or Nyanza area for a visit to a cultural or historical attraction, including the King’s Palace Museum, subject to opening hours and your flight schedule.
Your driver-guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport or another agreed drop-off point. Because the return journey is substantial, a late-evening departure is recommended; an additional Kigali overnight can be arranged if needed. Your 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour comes to a close with unforgettable memories of mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, savannah wildlife and the beautiful Land of a Thousand Hills.
End of the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour.
Why Choose Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours for Your 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour?
With Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours , your experience is planned around a carefully balanced route, private transport and personal attention. We arrange the principal trekking permits in advance, select accommodation close to key activities and adapt each day to the weather, road conditions and pace of your group. Our approach to the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour places equal value on meaningful wildlife encounters and comfortable travel.
The 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour is suitable for couples, families with eligible trekking-age participants, small private groups and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you prefer extra lakeside relaxation or additional cultural activities, contact our safari team to discuss a personalised itinerary.
10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour Inclusions
- Nine nights of selected accommodation with the specified meal plan.
- Private ground transportation in an appropriate safari vehicle, including fuel.
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide.
- One mountain gorilla trekking permit per eligible participant.
- One golden monkey tracking permit per eligible participant.
- One chimpanzee tracking permit per eligible participant.
- Scheduled Akagera game drives and Lake Ihema boat safari.
- Nyungwe canopy walk and colobus monkey tracking as detailed.
- Applicable park entrance and conservation fees for scheduled activities.
- Kigali airport pickup and departure transfer.
- Bottled drinking water during road journeys and game drives.
- Government taxes applicable to the confirmed package.
10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour Exclusions
- International and domestic flights.
- Rwanda visa fees, where applicable.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Tips and gratuities for guides, trackers, rangers and lodge staff.
- Personal shopping, laundry and souvenirs.
- Drinks and meals not specified in the confirmed package.
- Optional activities or extra services not included in the itinerary.
- Expenses resulting from personal delays or changes to confirmed arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour
1. What destinations are included in the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour?
You will explore Kigali, Akagera National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu and Nyungwe Forest National Park, combining wildlife, primates, scenery and cultural experiences.
2. Does the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour include gorilla trekking?
Yes. One Rwanda mountain gorilla trekking permit per eligible traveller is included, subject to availability and confirmation when booking.
3. Can I track golden monkeys during the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour?
Yes. Golden monkey tracking is scheduled on Day 6 in Volcanoes National Park, with an early morning briefing and a guided forest experience.
4. Is chimpanzee tracking included in the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour?
Yes. A guided chimpanzee tracking excursion in Nyungwe Forest is included, although sightings depend on wild animals and natural conditions.
5. Will I see the Big Five in Akagera National Park?
Akagera is home to lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos, but sightings of all five cannot be guaranteed on a short visit.
6. Does the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour include Lake Kivu?
Yes. You will spend a night beside Lake Kivu and enjoy its scenic surroundings; an additional boat excursion can be arranged if time permits.
7. What is the best time for this Rwanda safari?
The tour operates year-round. Drier months often offer more comfortable trekking and game-viewing conditions, while the rainy periods bring lush scenery.
8. Is the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour suitable for families?
It can be tailored for families, but gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking have minimum-age rules, while golden monkey tracking has its own age requirement.
9. Is the canopy walkway included?
Yes, it is planned for Day 8 after chimpanzee tracking, subject to activity timing, park availability and the group’s fitness.
10. How do I book the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour?
Contact Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours with your preferred travel dates, number of travellers and lodge preferences. We will help arrange permits, accommodation and your private journey.
Book Your 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour
Discover Rwanda’s incredible diversity on the 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour, from the open savannah of Akagera and the volcanic forests of the north to peaceful Lake Kivu and the green mountain rainforest of Nyungwe. With personalised guiding, carefully chosen accommodation and remarkable wildlife experiences, this journey offers a memorable introduction to Rwanda’s most beautiful destinations.
Plan your 10 Days Best of Rwanda Safari Tour with Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours and enjoy an itinerary tailored to your needs.
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