TRIP OVERVIEW

The 5 Days Rwanda Gorilla & Akagera Big Five Safari is a perfectly balanced adventure that combines Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife experiences: mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Big Five game drives in Akagera National Park. This safari is designed for travelers who want to experience both primate encounters and classic African savannah wildlife within a short, well-organized itinerary.

Rwanda, known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, offers one of Africa’s safest and most scenic safari destinations. In just five days, you will explore two completely different ecosystems, lush volcanic rainforests and open savannah plains, while enjoying professional guiding, comfortable travel, and breathtaking landscapes.

This safari is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, honeymooners, and adventure travelers seeking a high-quality, time-efficient African safari experience.

SAFARI ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali City Tour & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by your professional safari guide. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a short Kigali city tour, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and cultural highlights.

After the city experience, begin your scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park (Musanze), passing through Rwanda’s beautiful rolling hills and rural landscapes. On arrival, check in at your lodge and relax.

🛏️ Overnight: Volcanoes National Park area

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for a gorilla trekking briefing. Rangers will explain trekking rules, safety guidelines, and gorilla family allocation.

You will then enter the rainforest for your gorilla trekking adventure, which may take between 1 to 6 hours depending on gorilla movement. Once found, spend one unforgettable hour observing the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

⚠️ Important Rules:

• Maintain at least 7 meters distance
• No flash photography
• Follow ranger instructions strictly
• Do not eat or drink near gorillas

🛏️ Overnight: Volcanoes National Park area

Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, depart for Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only Big Five safari park. Enjoy a scenic drive across the country, arriving in the afternoon.

In the evening, embark on your first game drive in Akagera, where you may spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, buffaloes, and possibly predators like lions and leopards.

🛏️ Overnight: Akagera National Park area

Day 4: Full-Day Game Drive & Boat Safari in Akagera

Start your day with an early morning game drive, the best time to see active wildlife and predators.

Later, enjoy a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

Akagera is home to the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard), making it one of the most rewarding safari parks in East Africa.

🛏️ Overnight: Akagera National Park area

Day 5: Return to Kigali and Departure

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed drive back to Kigali City. Depending on your flight schedule, you may visit local craft shops or enjoy a short city experience.

Later, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your unforgettable Rwanda safari adventure.

Safari Highlights

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Big Five game drives in Akagera National Park
• Elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards
• Boat safari on Lake Ihema
• Scenic drives through Rwanda’s rolling hills
• Private 4x4 safari vehicle with expert guide