10 Days Rwanda Safari Adventure

Welcome to the ultimate adventure of a 10-day Rwanda safari tour itinerary, where you will embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of this beautiful country. These itinerary promises to take you on a thrilling and exciting expedition, where you will explore the vibrant city of Kigali, indulge in the rich cultural heritage of the Iby’Iwacu cultural village, and witness the majestic mountain gorillas up close during gorilla trekking.

But that’s not all, as you will also have the opportunity to encounter the playful golden monkeys, stroll through the scenic twin lakes of Buhonda and Burera, relax on a boat cruise at Lake Kivu, soak in the rejuvenating hot springs of Gisenyi, and take a breathtaking canopy walk.

If that’s not enough, you will also have the chance to spot the fascinating chimpanzees and visit the Kamiranzovu swamp in the lush green Nyungwe forest. To top it all off, you will go on a thrilling game drive and boat cruise on Ihema Lake at Akagera National Park, making this safari tour an unforgettable experience of a lifetime. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Rwanda!

I hope this itinerary gives you an idea of what a 10-day Rwanda safari tour might look like.

Note: Please keep in mind that this itinerary can be customized to your preferences, interests and budget, but it covers some of the best attractions and experiences that Rwanda has to offer. Also, gorilla, chimpanzee and golden monkey trekking permits need to be booked in advance and are subject to availability so it is important to plan ahead. However, when you book with us at Kofi Tours and Travels bookings can be done for you. Enjoy your trip!

10 Days
16 Years

Departure

Kigali

Destination

Various Locations

Included

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Excluded

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Tour Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Rest

Day 1 of the 10-day Rwanda tour itinerary begins with your arrival at Kigali International Airport, where you will be greeted by a representative from your tour operator. The representative will assist you with your luggage and escort you to your transportation, which will take you to your hotel in Kigali.

Depending on your arrival time, you may have some time to explore the city or rest and recover from your journey. Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. You may wish to take a walk around the city and discover some of its landmarks and attractions, such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial or the Kimironko Market.

Alternatively, you may choose to relax at your hotel and recharge your batteries for the exciting days ahead. Your tour operator will make sure that your accommodations meet your expectations and provide you with all the necessary amenities and services to ensure your comfort.

Regardless of your choice, your tour operator will be available to answer any questions you may have and provide you with any information you need to make the most of your time in Rwanda. They will also brief you on the rest of the tour itinerary and what to expect during the next few days.

In summary, Day 1 of the 10-day Rwanda tour itinerary is all about arriving in Kigali and getting settled in your accommodations. You will have the opportunity to explore the city or relax and recover from your journey, depending on your preference and arrival time. Your tour operator will be there to assist you every step of the way and ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable experience in Rwanda.

Day 2: Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest

Day 2 of the 10 Days Rwanda Tour itinerary includes a visit to Kigali City and a transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park. After breakfast, you will begin the day with a tour of Kigali city, which is known for its clean streets and well-organized infrastructure. During the city tour, you will get to see the various landmarks and attractions that make Kigali a unique and vibrant city. After the visit to the memorial, the itinerary includes a visit to the Kimironko Market, a bustling local market where you can purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the local culture and interact with the locals, who are known for their friendly and welcoming nature.

One of the highlights of the Kigali city tour is a visit to the Genocide Memorial Center. This center was established to commemorate the Rwandan genocide that occurred in 1994 and to honor the memory of the victims. The center is a place of reflection and education, with exhibitions and displays that detail the events leading up to the genocide and the aftermath. Visiting the Genocide Memorial Center is a sobering but important experience that helps to understand the tragic history of Rwanda.

After the city tour, you will proceed to Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is located in the southwestern part of Rwanda.  This journey offers an opportunity to visit the National Museum of Butare en route to learn about the history and culture of Rwanda.

The National Museum of Butare is one of the largest museums in East Africa, and it provides an excellent overview of Rwanda's cultural heritage. The museum has an impressive collection of artifacts, ethnographic items, and art pieces that showcase Rwanda's rich cultural history. The museum also features traditional music and dance performances, making it an immersive and interactive experience. The visit to the National Museum of Butare offers an opportunity to learn about Rwanda's cultural heritage.

Upon arrival at Nyungwe Forest National Park, you will check into your accommodation and have the rest of the day at your leisure. Nyungwe Forest is one of the largest mountain rainforests in Africa, covering an area of approximately 1000 square kilometers. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, with over 13 different species of primates, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and baboons. You may choose to take a walk around the park or relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Nyungwe Forest is a peaceful and tranquil place, offering a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

Day 3 of the 10 Days Rwanda tour itinerary takes you to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of the most biodiverse regions in Africa. With its lush vegetation, unique wildlife, and stunning landscapes, Nyungwe Forest National Park is a nature lover's paradise. The park is home to over 300 species of birds, 75 species of mammals, and 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkeys, and baboons. This day is dedicated to exploring the natural beauty and wildlife of the park through two exciting activities.

The day starts early with a guided chimpanzee trek, we will drive to the park headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee trekking. From the moment you arrive, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the landscape and the thrill of the search for these majestic creatures. Nyungwe Forest is home to several primate species, including chimpanzees, and this trek offers a unique opportunity to observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. The trek is led by an experienced guide who will take you through the forest, pointing out different animal species and their behaviors. Along the way, you will have the chance to observe other primates such as black and white colobus monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys. The chimpanzee trek lasts for approximately three hours, and it is a thrilling experience that should not be missed.

Later in the day, you can enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge's restaurant, which serves a variety of local and international dishes. You can also interact with other tourists and share your experiences of the tour so far.

Day 4: Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk and Visit to Iby'iwacu Cultural Village

In the morning, you will take a canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest, which provides a bird's eye view of the forest canopy. The walkway is suspended 60 meters above the ground and stretches over 200 meters across a lush valley. This is the only canopy walk in East Africa and offers a unique opportunity to see the forest from a different perspective. As you walk on the suspended bridge, you will have a bird's eye view of the lush canopy, and the forest floor below. This is a great opportunity to take breathtaking photos and appreciate the forest's beauty from a unique vantage point.

In the afternoon, you will drive to Volcanoes National Park, which is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. On your way you will make a stopover at Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to immerse yourself in the Rwanda culture. The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village is located in Musanze district, in the northern part of Rwanda. It is a community-based tourism initiative that was created to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of Rwanda. The village is home to various traditional activities, including pottery making, banana beer brewing, basket weaving, and traditional medicine preparation. This village is a living museum that showcases the cultural heritage of Rwanda. You will be warmly welcomed by the locals and learn about their customs and practices, including how to make traditional crafts, play traditional games, and even participate in a traditional dance. You will be amazed by the energy, dances, and songs of the local community, which will leave you with lasting memories.

After your cultural immersion, you will proceed to the Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival, you will check into your accommodation and have some time to relax before embarking on a nature walk in the park. The park is home to several species of primates, including the golden monkey, and a variety of bird species. The nature walk provides a fantastic opportunity to take in the beauty of the park, learn about its flora and fauna, and enjoy some fresh air as you unwind from your long journey. As the day comes to an end, you will return to your accommodation in the Volcanoes National Park, where you will spend the night.

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and a Visit to Kariosoke Research Centre

Day 5 of the 10 Days Rwanda tour itinerary involves an exciting and memorable activity, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari is an incredible wildlife adventure that allows visitors to explore the lush rainforests of Rwanda and observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. A gorilla permit goes for $1500 each person. This once-in-a-lifetime experience takes visitors through the stunning Virunga Mountains, where they can hike and witness these gentle giants up close, while learning about their behavior and conservation efforts to protect them. It is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique glimpse into one of the most incredible creatures on Earth.

Early in the morning, you will embark on an expedition to track the gorillas in their natural habitat. The journey will be led by an experienced guide who will provide insightful information about the park, the gorillas, and their behaviors.

The trek through the dense jungle may be strenuous, but the anticipation of seeing these majestic creatures up close will keep you going. The gorillas in Volcanoes National Park are divided into different families, and your guide will take you to one of them. The guides are experienced in locating the gorillas and will take you to where the families were last seen.

Once you find the gorillas, you will have an unforgettable hour to observe them in their natural habitat. You will be able to observe their behaviors, social interactions, and get a sense of their personalities. This is a rare opportunity to see these incredible creatures in the wild, and it is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

After your gorilla trekking experience, visitors also get to visit the Karisoke Research Center, which was founded by Dian Fossey to study and protect the mountain gorillas. The center has been instrumental in the conservation of gorillas in the area, and visitors get to learn about the center's efforts in protecting these endangered species.

After the trek and the visit to the research center, visitors return to their lodge for dinner and relaxation. The lodges in the area offer excellent amenities and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, providing the perfect setting to unwind after a day full of adventure.

Day 6: Golden Monkey Trekking and Visit to the Twin Lakes of Buhonda and Burera

Day 6 of the 10-day Rwanda tour itinerary involves a thrilling adventure of golden monkey trekking. The day starts with an early morning breakfast to energize you for the trekking ahead. Golden monkey trekking takes place in the Volcanoes National Park, where you will have the opportunity to observe these beautiful and rare primates in their natural habitat.

Golden monkeys are a unique and endangered species found only in the Virunga Mountains of central Africa. They are named for their distinctive golden fur, which glitters in the sun. These monkeys are known for their playful nature and agile movements, making the trek to observe them an exciting and unforgettable experience. Visitors are required to obtain a permit from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to go golden monkey trekking. The permit costs $100 and allows visitors to spend up to one hour with the golden monkeys.

Trekking to see the golden monkeys is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that allows you to see these playful primates up close in their natural habitat. The trek can take anywhere from 1-4 hours, depending on the location of the monkeys and the difficulty of the terrain. It is advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a waterproof jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable.

After the golden monkey trek, the tour itinerary takes you to the twin lakes of Buhondo and Burera. These two beautiful lakes are located near the town of Musanze and are a popular destination for tourists seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The twin lakes offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains, and the calm waters provide a serene atmosphere to unwind after the trek.

After the visit to the twin lakes, you will return to your lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight stay. The lodge offers comfortable accommodation with all necessary amenities, allowing you to recharge after an eventful day. The lodge also offers a perfect opportunity to interact with other travelers and share experiences, making the Rwanda tour itinerary a social and enriching experience. The day ends with a comfortable stay at the lodge, preparing you for the remaining days of the tour.

Overall, Day 6 of the 10 Days Rwanda tour itinerary is an exciting and memorable experience that offers a unique opportunity to observe the endangered golden monkeys in their natural habitat. The trek through the jungle may be challenging, but the rewards of seeing these magnificent creatures up close and personal are worth every step. Additionally, visiting the Twin Lakes in the afternoon is the perfect way to round off the day, allowing you to unwind and relax in a picturesque setting.

Day 7: Transfer to Lake Kivu

After breakfast, you will drive to Lake Kivu, one of Africa's great lakes. The lake is known for its beautiful scenery, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Lunch at the shores of Lake Kivu is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the stunning views of the lake while indulging in some delicious Rwandan cuisine.

Following lunch, the tour proceeds with a boat ride on the lake. The boat ride offers a chance to explore some of the small islands that dot the lake, each with its unique features and history. Visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the lake while enjoying the cool breeze and the sounds of the water. We'll also have the chance to visit a local fishing village and learn about the traditional methods used to catch fish. Lake Kivu also offers a range of water activities for visitors, including swimming, kayaking, and fishing. These activities are perfect for anyone looking to have some fun in the water while enjoying the beautiful scenery and serene environment.

Day 8: Visiting Hot Springs and Transfer to Akagera National Park

Day 8 of the 10 Days Rwanda Tour Itinerary begins with an early morning breakfast, setting the tone for an exciting day of adventure and exploration. After breakfast, the first stop of the day is a visit to the hot springs in Gisenyi.

Gisenyi is a beautiful lakeside town located on the northern shores of Lake Kivu. The town is known for its natural hot springs that are believed to have therapeutic properties. The hot springs are a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

After exploring the hot springs, the next activity on the itinerary is a stopover at the Kings Palace Museum as you transfer to Akagera National Park. The museum is a fascinating attraction that will give you an insight into the history and culture of Rwanda. Here, you'll get to learn about the Rwandan monarchy, its traditions, and customs. You'll also have an opportunity to marvel at the impressive architecture of the palace, which is a replica of a traditional royal residence. After exploring the King's Palace Museum, you'll continue with your journey to Akagera National Park.

Upon arrival at Akagera National Park, you will check in at your accommodation and enjoy some relaxation time. There are several lodging options in the park, ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. Regardless of your budget, you're sure to find accommodation that suits your needs and preferences.

Day 9: Visit to Akagera National Park

Day 9 of the 10 Days Rwanda tour itinerary involves a thrilling game drive and boat ride in Akagera National Park. This activity-packed day starts early in the morning with a game drive, which is a perfect time to see wildlife as they are active during the cooler hours of the day.

During the game drive, you'll have a chance to spot the famous Big Five, which include elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. In addition to these majestic animals, Akagera National Park is home to a wide range of wildlife, such as zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. You'll be accompanied by an experienced guide who will help you spot these animals and provide insightful information about their behaviors and habitats.

After a thrilling game drive, you'll take a break and relax before embarking on the next activity of the day, which is a boat ride on Lake Ihema. This scenic lake is the second-largest in Rwanda and home to a vast array of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

As you glide through the calm waters of the lake, you'll get to see these magnificent animals up close in their natural habitats. The boat ride is a perfect opportunity to take stunning photographs of the animals and the surrounding landscape.

Later in the day, you can choose to embark on a night game drive to explore the park's wildlife in the cooler hours of the day. This will give you a chance to see some of the park's nocturnal animals, such as hyenas, bushbabies, and genets. As the day comes to an end, you'll retire to your accommodation in Akagera National Park, where you'll spend the night. Overall, Day 9 of the 10-day Rwanda tour itinerary promises to be an exciting and unforgettable experience

Day 10: Departure

On your last day, after early morning breakfast you will drive back to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight back home. The transfer from Akagera National Park to Kigali takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Visitors are advised to pack and prepare for their departure in advance to avoid delays.

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Enquiry

Arrange your trip in advance – book this tour now!

Full Name: *
Contact Number: *
Email Address: *
Number of People *
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Any specific requirements or additional information you would like to provide: