12 Days Rwanda Safari: A Wonderful Gorillas, Chimps & Wildlife Rwanda Tour,
12 Days Rwanda Safari: Overview
Embark on a captivating 12 days Rwanda safari that offers an all-encompassing experience of gorilla, chimpanzee, and wildlife exploration. Starting from Kigali, the 12 days in Rwanda safari adventure takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee tracking, and Akagera National Park for wildlife viewing.
Throughout the twelve days safari in Rwanda, you’ll also enjoy cultural and community tours, stunning scenery, golden monkey tracking, historical excursions, relaxation on Lake Kivu’s beach, and a comprehensive Kigali city tour.
This 12 days Rwanda safari tour highlights the best of Rwanda national parks, nature and cultural heritage.
12 Days Rwanda Safari: Key Highlights
- Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda
- Day 2: Journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park via Butare
- Day 3: Primate walk in Nyungwe Forest
- Day 4: Nature walk in Nyungwe
- Day 5: Transfer to Kibuye on Lake Kivu
- Day 6: Transfer to Kinigi via Gisenyi
- Day 7: Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
- Day 8: Golden monkeys, Bisoke Volcano hike, or Dian Fossey hike
- Day 10: Game drive and boat cruise on Rwanda wildlife safaris
- Day 11: Explore northern Akagera and return to Kigali
- Day 12: Kigali city tour
12 Days Rwanda Safari: Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda
When you arrive at Kigali Airport, our guide will greet you and provide an overview of the safari before taking you to your hotel.
Accommodation options: Kigali Serena Hotel (Luxury), Hotel Chez Lando (Midrange), Omurugo Rwanda Hostel (Budget).
Day 2: Drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park via Butare
Begin your safari with a drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, stopping in Butare to visit the National Museum, King’s Palace, and genocide memorial sites. Enjoy lunch en route and arrive at Nyungwe in the evening.
Accommodation options: Nyungwe Forest Lodge (Luxury), Nyungwe Hill Top Hotel (Midrange), Gisakura Guesthouse (Budget).
Day 3: Nyungwe Forest Primate Walk
Start your day with a chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe Forest. Marvel at the playful primates and the diverse array of other primate species. In the evening, visit local eco-villages to learn about Kinyarwanda culture.
Accommodation: Return to your previous lodge.
Day 4: Nyungwe Nature Walk
Enjoy a morning nature walk through Nyungwe Forest, exploring various trails and observing the rich biodiversity, including ancient plants, orchids, birds, and butterflies.
Accommodation: Return to your previous lodge.
Day 5: Transfer to Kibuye
Travel to Kibuye, a resort town on Lake Kivu’s shores. The scenic drive offers views of valleys and uplands. After lunch, embark on a boat cruise to Amahoro and Napoleon islands.
Accommodation options: Cormoran Lodge (Midrange), Golf Eden Rock (Luxury), Saint Marie (Budget).
Day 6: Transfer to Kinigi via Gisenyi
Drive to Volcanoes National Park (Kinigi), stopping at Gisenyi beaches on Lake Kivu. Arrive at Kinigi in the afternoon.
Accommodation options: Virunga Lodge (Luxury), La Palme Hotel (Midrange), Kinigi Guesthouse (Budget).
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Join the park rangers for a briefing before heading into the jungle for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Spend an hour observing these majestic creatures. In the evening, visit the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera.
Accommodation: Return to your previous lodge.
Day 8: Golden Monkeys, Bisoke Volcano Hike, or Dian Fossey Hike
Choose between tracking golden monkeys, hiking Mount Bisoke, or visiting Dian Fossey’s research center and grave. Each option offers a unique glimpse into Rwanda’s wildlife and conservation efforts.
Accommodation options: Kigali Serena Hotel (Luxury), Hotel Chez Lando (Midrange), Omurugo Rwanda Hostel (Budget).
Day 9: Transfer to Akagera National Park
Drive to Akagera National Park, passing through scenic farmlands. After lunch, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.
Accommodation options: Akagera Game Lodge (Luxury), Ruzizi Tented Camp (Midrange), Dereva Hotel (Budget).
Day 10: Game Drive and Boat Cruise
Embark on an early morning game drive to see various wildlife, followed by breakfast and relaxation. In the afternoon, choose between a boat cruise on Lake Ihema or sport fishing on Lake Shakuni.
Accommodation: Return to your previous lodge.
Day 11: Explore Northern Akagera and Return to Kigali
Explore the northern sector of Akagera, enjoying stunning views and abundant wildlife. After lunch, return to Kigali.
Accommodation options: Kigali Serena Hotel (Luxury), Hotel Chez Lando (Midrange), Omurugo Rwanda Hostel (Budget).
Day 12: Kigali City Tour
Conclude your safari with a Kigali city tour, visiting the Gisozi genocide memorial, Presidential Palace Museum, downtown Kigali, and the Hotel des Collines.
End of the 12 Days Rwanda Safari Tour
This 12-day Rwanda safari package can be customized to suit your interests and preferences.
