7 Days Wildlife and Primate Safari Rwanda
Tour Overview 7 Days Wildlife and Primate Safari Rwanda
The 7 Days Wildlife and Primate Safari Rwanda is an unforgettable journey that brings you face-to-face with Rwanda’s stunning wildlife, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the open savannah of Akagera National Park to the misty mountains of Volcanoes National Park, this safari combines the best of Rwanda’s natural treasures — offering the perfect mix of game drives, gorilla trekking, and cultural experiences.
You’ll begin in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital, before heading east to Akagera National Park for thrilling game drives and a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ihema. Then, travel north to Musanze for cultural tours and the highlight of your adventure — a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas. End your safari with optional hikes to Mount Bisoke or a visit to the Dian Fossey Tomb, followed by a relaxing boat ride before returning to Kigali. This7 Days Wildlife and Primate Safari Rwanda itinerary is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers who wish to experience the very best of Rwanda in one incredible trip.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be met by your guide from Rwanda Safaris Gorilla Trekking. Begin your journey with a Kigali City Tour, visiting key landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kimironko Market, and the Inema Arts Center. Learn about Rwanda’s transformation and cultural heritage. Dinner and overnight in Kigali.
Accommodation: Hôtel des Mille Collines / Heaven Boutique Hotel / Lemigo Hotel
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park – Half Game Drive & Boat Cruise
After breakfast, depart Kigali for Akagera National Park, located in Rwanda’s eastern region. Upon arrival, enjoy a short game drive through the park’s rolling hills and woodlands. Check in at your lodge for lunch, then head for an afternoon boat cruise on Lake Ihema, where you’ll spot hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Akagera Game Lodge / Mantis Akagera Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Full Game Drive & Return to Kigali
Rise early for a sunrise game drive, exploring Akagera’s northern plains where large herds of elephants, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, lions, and leopards roam. With luck, you may also spot the recently reintroduced rhinos. After a picnic lunch, begin your drive back to Kigali for an evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Hôtel des Mille Collines / Heaven Boutique Hotel / Lemigo Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Transfer to Musanze & Cultural Tour
After breakfast, drive north to Musanze, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. The 2.5-hour drive offers stunning views of the Virunga Mountains. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll experience Rwanda’s traditions through dance, drumming, and local storytelling. Dinner and overnight in Musanze.
Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, head to Kinigi Park Headquarters for a briefing on mountain gorilla trekking. Set off into the forest with experienced rangers to track one of Rwanda’s habituated gorilla families. The trek may take between 2–6 hours depending on the gorillas’ movements. Once found, spend an unforgettable hour observing their behavior, taking photos, and marveling at their presence. Return to the lodge for a relaxed evening.
Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Dian Fossey Tomb Visit or Hike Mount Bisoke
Today, choose between two incredible activities based on your fitness level and preference.
Option 1: Visit the Dian Fossey Tomb, where you’ll hike through the forest to the site where the famous primatologist is buried beside her beloved gorillas — a moving experience in Rwanda’s conservation history.
Option 2: Take on a Mount Bisoke hike, a challenging but rewarding trek that leads to a stunning crater lake at the summit, offering panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Boat Ride & Return to Kigali
After breakfast, drive to Lake Ruhondo or Lake Burera for a peaceful boat ride, enjoying the mountain views and local village life. Later, start your drive back to Kigali, stopping at local markets for souvenirs or Rwandan coffee. Arrive in Kigali in time for lunch and your transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Included in 7 Days Wildlife and Primate Safari Rwanda
- 1 Gorilla trekking permit per person ($1,500)
- All ground transportation in a private 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
- Akagera Park entry fees and game drives
- Boat cruises on Lake Ihema and Lake Ruhondo/Burera
- Cultural village visit
- Bottled drinking water during the trip
Excluded in 7 Days Wildlife and Primate Safari Rwanda
- International flights and visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Optional activities not mentioned
- Personal expenses (drinks, tips, laundry, souvenirs)
- Porter or guide gratuities
End of Tour
Your 7 Days Wildlife and Primate Safari Rwanda concludes with incredible memories — from the roaring lions of Akagera to the peaceful gorillas of Volcanoes and the vibrant culture of Musanze. This 7 Days Wildlife and Primate Safari Rwanda safari offers a true taste of Rwanda’s wild heart, where adventure, wildlife, and culture come together in harmony.
Starting from US $ 4,600 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 | – | $ 4600 |
| 2 | – | $ 4300 |
| 3 | – | $ 3800 |
| 4 | – | $ 3500 |
| 5 | – | $ 3040 |
| 6 | – | $ 2780 |
| 7 | 15 | $ 2600 |
