10 Days Rwanda Ultimate Safari

Overview—10 Days Rwanda Ultimate Safari

Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a country of striking contrasts—golden savannahs, misty montane forests, sparkling lakes, and towering volcanic peaks. This 10-day ultimate safari combines Rwanda’s most iconic experiences into one seamless journey. From the Big Five of Akagera National Park to the primate-rich Nyungwe Forest and the world-famous gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, this itinerary captures the full breadth of Rwanda’s wildlife and landscapes. Scenic drives, expert guiding, and carefully selected lodges ensure you enjoy both adventure and comfort throughout.

What makes this safari truly ultimate is the balance of wildlife, culture, and natural beauty. You’ll track chimpanzees and colobus monkeys in one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, drift along Lake Kivu’s shoreline, and spend precious moments with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Cultural visits to local villages and opportunities to engage with Rwanda’s conservation success stories deepen the experience. With diverse ecosystems, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable encounters, this journey provides a complete and luxurious exploration of Rwanda’s wild heart.

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Detailed Itinerary —10 Days Rwanda Ultimate Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Arrive at Kigali International Airport where you’ll be met by your private guide. Depending on arrival time, take a short city tour including the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local markets. Dinner and overnight in Kigali.

Day 2: Kigali – Transfer to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, depart for Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the Big Five. Check into your lodge and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, head out on your first game drive to spot elephants, buffalo, zebras, and lions. Overnight in Akagera.

Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Akagera

Spend the day exploring Akagera on morning and afternoon game drives. Look out for rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, and over 500 bird species. Sundowners overlooking Lake Ihema provide the perfect close to the day. Overnight in Akagera.

Day 4: Akagera – Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey southwest to Nyungwe Forest. Along the way, pass tea plantations and rolling hills, with stops for photography and cultural encounters. Arrive in the late afternoon at your rainforest lodge. Overnight in Nyungwe.

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe

Rise early for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest. Witness these playful primates leaping through trees and hear their distinctive calls echoing in the forest. After lunch, take a canopy walk across suspended bridges with panoramic views of the forest. Overnight in Nyungwe.

Day 6: Colobus Monkey Trek & Nature Walk in Nyungwe

Today, trek in search of the Rwenzori colobus monkeys, often seen in large troops. Afterward, enjoy a guided nature walk exploring the forest’s incredible biodiversity, including orchids, butterflies, and over 300 bird species. Overnight at Nyungwe.

Day 7: Nyungwe – Transfer to Lake Kivu

After breakfast, drive north to Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest freshwater lake. Arrive at your lakeside hotel in time for lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing, enjoying a boat ride, or exploring nearby fishing villages. Overnight at Lake Kivu.

Day 8: Lake Kivu – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, travel to Volcanoes National Park, home of the endangered mountain gorillas. The drive winds through lush hills and farmlands, with incredible views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon and prepare for the highlight of the safari—gorilla trekking. Overnight at Volcanoes.

Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Rise early and transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing before trekking into the forest. The hike may take a few hours, but the reward is unforgettable—spending an hour with a gorilla family in their natural habitat. Return to your lodge for relaxation and a celebratory dinner. Overnight at Volcanoes.

Day 10: Golden Monkey Trek – Return to Kigali

On your final day, enjoy an optional golden monkey trek, encountering these playful and rare primates in the bamboo forests. After breakfast, return to Kigali with scenic stops along the way. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your Rwanda Ultimate Safari.