Rwanda is a land of remarkable beauty, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” and this 7 Days Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Rwanda Safari has been thoughtfully designed to immerse you in its most iconic experiences. From tracking endangered mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park to witnessing classic savannah wildlife in Akagera National Park and exploring the vibrant city of Kigali, this journey offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural insight. With exclusive, high-end accommodation throughout, private transfers and expert guides, Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours ensures that your safari experience is seamless, deeply enriching and unforgettable.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, a Fruits of Hope Adventure Tours representative will meet you with a warm welcome and assist you through customs. You will be transferred in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to your luxury hotel in Kigali. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a short city tour including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, the vibrant Kimironko Market or one of the city’s modern art galleries.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park – Sunset Game Drive
After a hearty breakfast, depart Kigali for Akagera National Park in Eastern Rwanda, a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour drive. Akagera is Rwanda’s only Big Five park and home to a stunning mix of savannah, wetlands and lakes. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your luxury lodge before heading out for a relaxing sunset game drive, where you may spot elephants, giraffes, zebras and antelope grazing as the sun sets over the plains.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Full Day Safari in Akagera
Rise early for a full-day game drive across Akagera’s diverse ecosystems. With your expert guide, explore open savannahs, papyrus swamps and lake shorelines as you search for lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos. You will also have opportunities to see hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, warthogs and a rich variety of birdlife including shoebills and fish eagles.
A bush picnic lunch will be served in a safe, scenic area within the park. In the afternoon, continue your game drive or opt for a relaxing boat safari on Lake Ihema to see hippos, crocodiles and water birds up close.
Return to your lodge for a sunset dinner and drinks by the fire.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, bid farewell to Akagera and begin your scenic drive northwest to Volcanoes National Park, a journey of about 5 to 6 hours through Rwanda’s rolling hills and rural landscapes. You will stop en route for lunch in Musanze, a bustling town close to the park.
Upon arrival, check into your luxury lodge nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. You may choose to enjoy a spa treatment, take a nature walk around the lodge or relax with views of the misty mountains.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking Experience
Today is the highlight of your safari – a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. After an early breakfast, you will be driven to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing by park rangers. Depending on your assigned group, your trek could last anywhere from 1 to 5 hours each way through thick rainforest and uneven terrain.
Once you locate your assigned gorilla family, you’ll have a magical hour to observe their behavior, interactions and sheer presence at close range. Your guide will help interpret the group’s dynamics and ensure you maintain respectful distance for both safety and conservation.
Return to the lodge for a well-earned lunch and relaxation. In the evening, gather for a storytelling session about gorilla conservation and enjoy a gourmet dinner.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: Optional Activities – Golden Monkey Trek, Cultural Visit or Diane Fossey Hike
Today offers several rewarding options depending on your interests and energy levels:
- Golden Monkey Trek [Shorter trek to see lively golden monkeys in the bamboo forest]
- Visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village [Engage with local traditions, music, dance and crafts]
- Diane Fossey Tomb and Research Center Hike [Moderate hike through lush forest to pay tribute to the renowned primatologist]
Alternatively, you may choose to spend the day relaxing at your luxury lodge with spa treatments, yoga or nature walks. The evening will be spent reflecting on your journey around a fireside dinner with a view of the stars.
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 7: Return to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, you’ll depart Volcanoes National Park and drive back to Kigali, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Depending on your flight schedule, you can enjoy some last-minute shopping for Rwandan crafts, coffee or souvenirs.
A private transfer will take you to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of an extraordinary Rwandan journey.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 7 Days Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Rwanda Safari.
The 7 Days Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Rwanda Safari includes;
- All ground transportation in luxury 4×4 vehicle
- Services of professional English-speaking guide
- Gorilla trekking permit (USD 1500 per person)
- Accommodation at listed or similar luxury lodges
- All meals and bottled water
- Park entry fees and activities as per itinerary
However, the tour cost excludes; Visa fees, international air fare, personal shopping bills, souvenirs, tips to local guides, personal travel insurance, items not listed as included in the cost.