5 Days Rwanda Safari & Lake Kivu Safari
Tour Overview of 5 Days Rwanda Safari & Lake Kivu Adventure
The 5 Days Rwanda Safari & Lake Kivu Safari combines the best of Rwanda’s wildlife, nature, and leisure experiences in one unforgettable journey. From thrilling encounters with the Big Five in Akagera National Park to the serene beauty of Lake Kivu, this tour perfectly balances adventure and relaxation. You’ll explore Rwanda’s diverse landscapes — from the rolling savannah plains of Akagera to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu — and discover why Rwanda is called the Land of a Thousand Hills.
This safari is ideal for travelers seeking both excitement and tranquility. You’ll enjoy a scenic Kigali City Tour, spot elephants, lions, and giraffes on thrilling game drives, cruise on Lake Ihema to see hippos and crocodiles, and unwind with a relaxing stay along Lake Kivu. The combination of wildlife and water makes this itinerary one of Rwanda’s most rewarding short safaris.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Kigali City Tour
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide from Rwanda Safaris Gorilla Trekking. Begin with a Kigali City Tour, visiting historical and cultural landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kimironko Market, and Inema Arts Center. Learn about Rwanda’s remarkable history, art, and modern development. After the tour, enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Kigali.
Accommodation: Hôtel des Mille Collines / Heaven Boutique Hotel / Lemigo Hotel
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park & Afternoon Boat Cruise
After breakfast, drive east toward Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the Big Five. The 2.5-hour drive offers scenic views of rural life and rolling landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your lodge, have lunch, and later embark on an afternoon boat cruise on Lake Ihema. You’ll spot hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species such as kingfishers and African fish eagles. In the evening, relax at your lodge with dinner overlooking the savannah.
Accommodation: Akagera Game Lodge / Mantis Akagera Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Full Game Drive in Akagera National Park
Start your day early with a sunrise game drive across Akagera’s open plains, wetlands, and woodlands. This full-day adventure offers the chance to spot elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and even rhinos. Your experienced guide will help you identify different species and take you to scenic lookout points for photography. After a picnic lunch inside the park, continue exploring the northern circuits before returning to the lodge in the evening.
Accommodation: Akagera Game Lodge / Mantis Akagera Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Transfer to Lake Kivu (Gisenyi)
After breakfast, depart Akagera and drive west toward Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most beautiful freshwater lakes. Enjoy the scenic journey through Rwanda’s countryside, passing through tea and coffee plantations. Arrive in Gisenyi by afternoon and check in at your lakeside lodge. Spend your evening relaxing on the sandy shores, enjoying a sunset walk, or watching local fishermen prepare for their night on the lake.
Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel / Paradise Malahide / Inzu Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Lake Kivu Adventure & Departure
Begin your morning with a peaceful boat ride on Lake Kivu, exploring small islands and meeting local fishing communities. Visit Napoleon Island or Amahoro Island, known for their scenic views and birdlife. Depending on time, you can also tour a nearby coffee plantation or the Niramba Hot Springs before driving back to Kigali for your onward flight.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Included in 5 Days Rwanda Safari & Lake Kivu Adventure
- All accommodation and meals as per itinerary
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- All park entry fees and permits
- Kigali city tour
- Boat cruise on Lake Ihema and Lake Kivu
- Bottled drinking water throughout the safari
Excluded in 5 Days Rwanda Safari & Lake Kivu Adventure
- International flights and visas
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities not mentioned
- Personal expenses (drinks, tips, laundry, souvenirs)
- Porter or guide gratuities
End of 5 Days Rwanda Safari & Lake Kivu Adventure
Your 5 Days Rwanda Safari & Lake Kivu Safari ends with unforgettable memories of Rwanda’s wildlife, landscapes, and hospitality — from Akagera’s Big Five to the tranquil charm of Lake Kivu. A journey that perfectly captures the spirit of adventure and peace in Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills.
Starting from US $ 2,200 per person
Discounted prices per person as the number of people rises. Prices for children are fixed as $ 150 per child.
| No of People | Up To | Price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | – | $ 2200 |
| 2 | – | $ 1980 |
| 3 | – | $ 1750 |
| 4 | – | $ 1680 |
| 5 | – | $ 1520 |
| 6 | – | $ 1490 |
| 7 | 15 | $ 1410 |
