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5 Days – Gorilla Safari And Akagera National Park
tour features
| Length | 5 Day |
|---|---|
| Highlights | This safari offers the ultimate Rwandan wildlife adventure, combining the misty mountain slopes of Volcanoes National Park with the rolling savannahs of Akagera. Trek endangered mountain gorillas twice for two unique encounters, immerse yourself in Rwandan culture at the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, and enjoy thrilling game drives in search of the Big Five before unwinding on a serene boat cruise along Lake Ihema. |
| Key Information | Beginning and ending in Kigali, this 5-day journey includes double gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, cultural immersion, a classic African safari in Akagera National Park, and a scenic Lake Ihema cruise. Expect close wildlife encounters, luxury accommodation, and seamless guidance throughout your adventure. |
From Gorilla Kingdoms to Savannah Horizons
This special safari is designed for travelers who want it all – intimate encounters with mountain gorillas, insight into Rwanda’s rich culture, and thrilling wildlife drives in the country’s only savannah reserve. It’s a journey through misty forests, vibrant communities, golden savannahs, and sparkling lakes, all in just five unforgettable days.
From Virunga Slopes to Akagera Plains
Volcanoes National Park: Home to the rare mountain gorillas, this park’s bamboo forests and volcanic backdrops provide one of the most profound wildlife experiences on earth.
Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village: Step into Rwanda’s living traditions with cultural performances, crafts, and cuisine representing the Twa, Hutu, and Tutsi communities.
Akagera National Park: A savannah wilderness rich with lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, and leopards – Rwanda’s Big Five heartland.
Lake Ihema: Fringed with wetlands, this scenic lake offers boat cruises with sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife.
Day 1: Kigali Arrival – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport (or hotel pickup), your guide will drive you north through Rwanda’s rolling hills and valleys. Stop at scenic viewpoints along the way before arriving at Volcanoes National Park for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Dinner | Accommodation: Luxury Lodge near Volcanoes NP
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking – Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing and gorilla trekking. Spend one unforgettable hour with the gorillas before returning for lunch. In the evening, visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for Rwandan performances, food, and crafts.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Luxury Lodge near Volcanoes NP
Day 3: Second Gorilla Trek – Transfer to Akagera National Park
Return to Volcanoes NP for a second gorilla trek, this time meeting a different gorilla family. After receiving your trekking certificate, enjoy lunch and then transfer to Akagera National Park, arriving by evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Safari Lodge in Akagera NP
Day 4: Game Drive in Akagera – Lake Ihema Boat Cruise
Start with a sunrise game drive across Akagera’s plains, where lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and zebras roam freely. After lunch, take a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, watching hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of birdlife along the shores.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Safari Lodge in Akagera NP
Day 5: Return to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, check out and drive back through Rwanda’s “land of a thousand hills.” Arrive in Kigali for your onward flight or hotel drop-off.
Meals: Breakfast
Cost Includes:
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Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
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Services of an English-speaking driver-guide
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Luxury accommodation and meals as per the itinerary
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Two Rwanda gorilla trekking permits
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Park entrance and guide fees
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Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village visit
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Game drive in Akagera National Park
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Boat cruise on Lake Ihema
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Bottled drinking water during safari
Cost Excludes:
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International flights & visas
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Travel insurance & airport taxes
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Porter fees during trekking
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Optional activities not in the itinerary
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Personal expenses (souvenirs, tips, drinks, laundry)
When to Go & What to Expect
Best Time to Visit:
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June – Sept, Dec – Feb: Best trekking conditions.
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Mar – May, Oct – Nov: Quieter trails, lush landscapes.
Price Per Person:
Contact us for a customized quote.
