Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Akagera national park for afternoon game drive
Following breakfast, our driver will come to pick you up from the hotel in Kigali or another location and embark on the two and a half hour drive to Akagera National Park will take place. Traveling through Rwamagana, one of the most beautiful rural landscapes in the world, you might come across the famous long-horned cows, also called lnyambo.
You will go on a three- to four-hour afternoon game drive as soon as you arrive in Akagera National Park. During your game drive, keep an eye out for animals including elephants, hyenas, jackals, zebras, waterbucks, and duikers. Head back to the lodge for dinner and a restful night.
Meal plan: All meals are included
Day 2: Game drive and Boat cruise on Lake Ihema
After an early breakfast, you are going to explore the northern portion of the park to reach Mutumba, the highest point in Akagera, from where you can see breathtaking views of Tanzania’s Karagwe highlands and the Akagera plains. In the far north, the views of Lake Rwanyakizinga, Lake Mihindi, and Lake Gishanju are very satisfying. There is a lot of wild game in the northern sector, including buffalo, zebra, impala, giraffes, and leopards, among other species. The Park is also a sanctuary for birdwatchers.
Take a leisurely boat trip on Lake Ihema in the afternoon to witness a multitude of water birds—the lake is home to over 500 different species of birds—as well as multiple hippos, enormous crocodiles, elephants, and buffalos as they congregate at the lakeshore to drink. Among the greatest birds to seek out are Shoebills, Papyrus Gonoleks, Red-Faced Barbets, and Swamp Flycatchers. Head back to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay in the evening.
Meal plan: All meals are included
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National park
After breakfast, you will depart for a 4- to 5-hour trip to Volcanoes National Park. You check into the lodge and then proceed on a tour of the Musanze caverns. These caves date back more than 60 million years; throughout the excursion, you will discover more about the caves’ history, genocidal times, and creation. Spend the rest of the day learning about the caves’ history before returning to the resort for relaxation, dinner, and an overnight stay.
Meal plan: All meals are included
Day 4: Gorilla trekking and exploration of Ruhondo and Bulera twin lakes
After an early breakfast, go to Kinigi’s park headquarters to be informed and divided into groups of eight. Tracking gorilla takes 2-6 hours on average, with an hour of direct contact with the gorillas once found. The trip up to the gorillas’ preferred habitat, the bamboo forest, includes steep muddy slopes, dense vegetation, slick underfoot conditions after rain, and a high altitude. A general level of fitness is beneficial.
This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is regarded as one of the most remarkable wildlife encounters in the world. Return to your hotel for a hearty lunch and some much-needed rest.
Visit the Ruhondo and Bulera twin lakes in the late afternoon. Due to volcanic eruptions that occurred in the volcanic area in Northern Rwanda, specifically the eruption of Muhabura volcano (which is currently thought to be dormant), lava flows from volcanoes blocked the Nyabarongo river’s channel, resulting in the formation of these lakes. Previously, the largest river in Rwanda, the Nyabarongo River, flowed northward to Ndorw. You’ll be driven back to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Meal plan: All meals are included
Day 5: Cultural tour and transfer to Lake Kivu for fishing experience
After breakfast, you will check out and then proceed to the Gorilla Guardians’ former I’byiwacu Cultural Village for cultural experiences. This is a fun destination to visit with loads of historical stories and Rwandan history. You are welcome to join in on their traditional dance.
Proceed to the Rubavu side of Lake Kivu. After checking into the hotel, spend the entire afternoon lounging on the beach before going out for some nighttime fishing. Come and enjoy the melodious singing of the Lake Kivu traditional fisherman as they fish for the lake’s renowned sambaza, a small fish. With breathtaking surroundings, this trip is as authentic as it gets. Dinner and overnight at the lodge
Meal plan: All meals are included
Day 6: Boat cruise and transfer back to Kigali
After having relaxed, take a boat ride in the morning on Lake Kivu to explore its many stunning islands and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Many bird species, including as pelicans, crowned cranes, and malachite kingfishers, can be seen throughout the boat ride.
This boat ride often lasts two hours, depending on how busy the day is. After that, you’ll be driven back to Kigali and have time to buy souvenirs in Kigali City artisan stores before your transfer to the international airport for your flight back home. Rounding off this safari
Meal plan: Breakfast and Lunch