The 5-day Rwanda Gorillas and Akagera Safari is another fascinating tour that many visitors embark on during their visit to Africa, particularly in Rwanda, known as the land of a thousand hills. This safari explores two major national parks: Akagera and Volcanoes National Park, home to the mountain gorillas. Travelers get to experience both savannah and woodland vegetation in this beautiful country.
This 5-day Rwanda Gorillas and Akagera Safari begins at Kigali Airport, where you’ll first visit Akagera National Park for a game drive and a boat cruise on Lake Ihema. Afterward, you’ll proceed to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, followed by a cultural experience at the Ibyiwacu Cultural Center, concluding with a return to Kigali with an optional visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center before flying home.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Akagera National Park
On the first day of your 5-day Rwanda Gorillas and Akagera Safari, be ready for pickup at your hotel in Kigali by your driver guide, who will provide a brief about the safari. Immediately after, drive to Akagera National Park, home to the big five animals, passing through the scenic landscapes of Rwanda. Check-in at your lodge in the area for your meals.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema
Wake up early for breakfast at the lodge and transfer to Akagera National Park for a game drive. This activity offers sightings of the big five animals like elephants, leopards, buffalos, rhinos, lions, as well as savannah animals like zebras, giraffes, impalas, and olive baboons. Return to the lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, observing wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, and buffalos. End the day with an evening game drive back to the lodge for dinner.
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, check out from the lodge and drive to Volcanoes National Park. Enjoy the scenic drive through coffee plantations, hills, and other interesting landscapes. Have lunch en route at your booked lodge and prepare for your evening activities.
Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking and Cultural Tour
Today is the highlight of your safari. Start with a hearty breakfast and coffee before heading to the park’s main gate to finalize payments and receive a briefing from park officials covering the rules and regulations for the trek. An armed ranger guide will then lead you to the starting point for gorilla trekking.
The trek duration varies (1-8 hours) depending on the gorillas’ location. Once located, you’ll spend an hour in their presence, observing and capturing photos and videos. Return to the office for a trekking certificate and relax at the lodge.
In the evening, enjoy a cultural tour at the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, learning about the traditions, music, dance, drama, art, and crafts of the Rwandan people. Return to the lodge for dinner.
Day 5: Return to Kigali and Departure
Start the day with breakfast at your lodge before driving to Kigali International Airport. Optionally, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center to learn about the tragic events of the 1994 genocide. Continue to the airport for your departure flight home.
