Embark on the ultimate journey through Rwanda with this 10 Days Helicopter Wildlife Safari Tour in Rwanda, expertly curated for discerning travelers seeking exclusive experiences, seamless transfers, and intimate wildlife encounters. From the vibrant capital of Kigali, to the untamed savannahs of Akagera National Park, the lush rainforests of Nyungwe Forest, and the iconic Volcanoes National Park, this itinerary unveils Rwanda’s diverse ecosystems and rare wildlife in unforgettable fashion. Helicopter transfers not only cut down travel time but offer spectacular aerial views of “The Land of a Thousand Hills,” enhancing your journey with elegance and efficiency. Stay at Rwanda’s finest luxury lodges, enjoy private-guided excursions, savor gourmet cuisine, and experience unparalleled service at every turn.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be greeted with VIP fast-track service and transferred to your five-star hotel in a luxury vehicle. Spend your first day unwinding after your flight or take an optional guided tour through Kigali’s cultural and historical landmarks, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, vibrant art galleries, and designer boutiques. Enjoy a chef-curated welcome dinner at the hotel as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Helicopter Transfer to Akagera – Afternoon Game Drive
After a leisurely breakfast, board your private helicopter for a scenic flight to Akagera National Park. The aerial view of Rwanda’s rolling hills transforming into open savannah is spectacular. Upon arrival, settle into your luxury lodge before heading out on an afternoon game drive. Akagera is home to the Big Five, and sightings of elephants, lions, buffalo, and giraffes are common.
Return to your lodge for sunset drinks by the firepit and a multi-course dinner under the stars.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Rhino Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema
Wake early for a sunrise game drive, the perfect time to catch predators returning from their hunt and herbivores beginning their day. After breakfast back at the lodge, relax before embarking on a private boat safari on Lake Ihema in the afternoon. Spot hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds in this serene setting.
End the day with a bush sundowner experience, a classic safari ritual with drinks and canapés served in the wild.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Rhino Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Helicopter Transfer to Nyungwe Forest – Tea Experience & Leisure
Fly by helicopter to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. The aerial journey over Lake Kivu and verdant tea fields is breathtaking. Check in at your forest lodge and enjoy a gourmet lunch with sweeping views.
In the afternoon, take a guided tea estate tour, learning about Rwanda’s tea culture and production. Enjoy tastings while strolling through lush plantations. Later, unwind with a spa treatment or relax by the pool.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking – Canopy Walk Adventure
Rise before dawn and head into the Cyamudongo Forest section of Nyungwe for your chimpanzee trek. With expert trackers, you’ll follow the energetic and vocal chimp families through dense rainforest, a thrilling and intimate wildlife experience.
In the afternoon, take the iconic Nyungwe Canopy Walk, suspended 70 meters above the forest floor. This exhilarating walk offers unique perspectives of the forest’s biodiversity, monkeys, and exotic bird species. Return to your lodge for a well-earned rest and elegant dinner.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: Helicopter Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Depart this morning by helicopter to Volcanoes National Park, soaring over scenic farmlands and majestic volcano peaks. Upon landing, transfer to your ultra-luxury lodge where you’ll be greeted with traditional Rwandan hospitality.
Spend the afternoon at leisure or enjoy an optional visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll engage with local traditions, dances, and storytelling. Return for a wellness treatment or aperitifs beside the fire before dinner.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking Experience
Today marks the highlight of your Rwandan safari. After a full briefing, you’ll set off with expert guides into the mist-covered forest for a life-changing encounter with a mountain gorilla family. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours depending on the location of your assigned group. Once located, you’ll spend a powerful hour observing their behavior up close, watching silverbacks protect their group, young ones play, and mothers tenderly nurse their babies. It’s an emotional, humbling, and unforgettable moment.
Return to your lodge for a celebratory lunch and a relaxing afternoon. Consider an in-room massage or a private dinner under the stars.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 8: Golden Monkey Trek – Afternoon at Leisure
Begin the day with a gentler trek in search of golden monkeys, another endangered and endemic species found in Volcanoes National Park. These playful primates are fascinating to watch as they leap through the bamboo forests.
Return to your lodge for a late breakfast or brunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing at your leisure, perhaps book a cooking class, nature walk, or photography session at the lodge. Enjoy your penultimate night in Rwanda with a gourmet tasting menu and fine wines.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 9: Helicopter Flight to Lake Kivu – Relaxation by the Water
This morning, you’ll fly by helicopter to Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest and most beautiful lake. Upon arrival, check into your lakeside resort and enjoy a peaceful day of relaxation. Lounge by the beach, take a boat ride to explore small islands, or indulge in spa treatments with lake views.
Watch the sun dip below the horizon with cocktails on the water’s edge, followed by a candlelit dinner featuring fresh fish and local ingredients.
Accommodation: Cormoran Lodge, Kivu Serena Hotel, Cléo Lake Kivu Hotel.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 10: Helicopter Return to Kigali – Departure
After a leisurely breakfast on the lake, board your final helicopter flight back to Kigali, savoring the last aerial views of Rwanda’s rolling hills. Depending on your departure time, you may enjoy a private day room or optional final shopping stop at Caplaki Craft Market or Inzuki Designs for locally made souvenirs.
A private transfer will escort you to Kigali International Airport, where you’ll be assisted with your departure.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 10 Days Helicopter Wildlife Safari Tour in Rwanda.
The 10 Days Helicopter Wildlife Safari Tour in Rwanda includes;
- 1 Gorilla Permit per person.
- 1 Chimpanzee Permit per person.
- 1 Golden Monkey Permit per person.
- Airport Transfers.
- Accommodation and Meals as per the itinerary.
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Domestic Helicopter Flights.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Services of a professional English-speaking tour guide.
- Wildlife Game Drives.
- Boat Cruise Tours.
- Bottled water in the car.
- Tour Guide Allowances.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
However, the cost excludes; International air fare, visa fees, personal shopping bills, tips to local guides, personal medical and travel insurance, items of personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, souvenirs, items not listed as included etc.