6 Days Rwanda Safari: A Journey Through the Land of a Thousand Hills

Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. This 6-day Rwanda safari takes you through the country’s most breathtaking national parks and cultural attractions. From the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park, where mountain gorillas roam, to the savannahs of Akagera National Park, teeming with wildlife, this safari offers a blend of thrilling encounters, picturesque landscapes, and cultural experiences.

During this safari, you will track mountain gorillas, witness golden monkeys in their natural habitat, go on a classic African game drive, explore Kigali’s historical and cultural sites, and take a boat cruise on Lake Ihema. This well-rounded itinerary ensures a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.

Trip Highlights of 6 Days Rwanda Safari

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park

• Golden monkey tracking experience

• Big Five game drive in Akagera National Park

• Boat safari on Lake Ihema

• Visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and city tour

• Cultural experiences with local communities

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour & Genocide Memorial Visit

Your adventure begins upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, where you will be welcomed by a professional guide and transferred to your hotel. Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, is one of Africa’s cleanest and safest cities, known for its vibrant culture and fascinating history.

After checking into your hotel, you will embark on a city tour, which includes visiting local markets, craft shops, and historical sites. A key highlight of the day is a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you will learn about Rwanda’s tragic past and its remarkable journey of reconciliation and recovery.

Later in the evening, you will return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay, preparing for the exciting adventures ahead.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kigali
Meal Plan: Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Cultural Experience

After an early breakfast, you will depart from Kigali and drive north to Volcanoes National Park, a scenic journey of approximately 2.5 hours. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, lush green landscapes, and rural villages.

Upon arrival in Musanze, the gateway to the park, you will check into your lodge and have lunch. In the afternoon, you will visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you will interact with the local community and learn about Rwanda’s traditional customs, dances, and way of life.

In the evening, you will return to your lodge for relaxation, dinner, and an overnight stay, gearing up for the unforgettable gorilla trekking experience the next day.

Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Today is the highlight of your safari – gorilla trekking! After an early breakfast, you will head to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing by the park rangers. You will be assigned a gorilla family to track and then set off into the misty forests of the Virunga Mountains.

Gorilla trekking can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. The trek through the dense forest is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one hour in their presence, observing their behavior and taking photographs.

After this unforgettable experience, you will return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit the Dian Fossey Tomb & Research Center to learn about her conservation efforts.

Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking – Transfer to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, you will return to Volcanoes National Park for another primate adventure – golden monkey tracking. These beautiful and playful monkeys are endemic to the Virunga region and live in large social groups. The trek is easier than gorilla trekking and provides fantastic photographic opportunities.

Following this experience, you will embark on a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda. This journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, with stunning countryside views along the way. You will arrive in the evening and check into your lodge, enjoying a relaxed dinner as you prepare for the next day’s thrilling safari.

Accommodation: Lodge in Akagera National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Full-Day Safari in Akagera National Park

Today, you will embark on an exciting game drive in Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park. Akagera is home to the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard), as well as giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and numerous bird species. The morning game drive will offer excellent opportunities to spot wildlife, especially predators like lions and leopards.

After a picnic lunch in the park, you will take a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you will encounter hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds such as African fish eagles and herons.

In the evening, you will return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, reminiscing about the amazing wildlife encounters of the day.

Accommodation: Lodge in Akagera National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Morning Game Drive & Return to Kigali

On your final day, you will enjoy a morning game drive, offering a last chance to spot any animals you may have missed the previous day. The cool morning temperatures increase wildlife activity, making it an ideal time for photography.

After the game drive, you will drive back to Kigali, arriving in the afternoon. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping before heading to the airport for your departure flight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Inclusions of 6 Days Rwanda Safari

✔ Airport transfers & ground transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
✔ Accommodation in lodges and hotels as per the itinerary
✔ Meals as per the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
✔ Gorilla trekking permit ($1,500 per person)
✔ Golden monkey tracking permit
✔ Akagera National Park entry fees
✔ Game drives & boat safari in Akagera
✔ English-speaking professional guide
✔ Bottled drinking water during the safari
✔ Kigali city tour and Genocide Memorial visit

Exclusions of 6 Days Rwanda Safar

✖ International flights & visa fees
✖ Travel insurance
✖ Tips for guides and hotel staff
✖ Alcoholic drinks and personal expenses
✖ Optional activities (e.g., Dian Fossey hike)
✖ Laundry service

This 6-day Rwanda safari is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that offers an incredible mix of wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re trekking gorillas in the Virunga Mountains, exploring the open plains of Akagera, or learning about Rwanda’s inspiring history in Kigali, this journey promises unforgettable memories. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and well-planned activities, this safari is perfect for anyone seeking an immersive experience in Rwanda’s natural wonders.

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