Experience the very best of Rwanda’s natural beauty and wildlife in this 6 Days Luxury Rwanda Wildlife and Gorilla Tour, combining thrilling game drives in Akagera National Park with the awe-inspiring intimacy of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This exclusive itinerary seamlessly blends luxury, comfort, and adventure featuring private transfers (with optional helicopter upgrades), expert-guided excursions, and handpicked five-star lodges. You’ll traverse the savannah plains teeming with big game, navigate scenic waterways, and stand face-to-face with mountain gorillas in the misty Virunga Mountains all while enjoying exceptional service, fine dining, and tranquil wellness experiences. This is Rwanda redefined for the sophisticated traveler.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour
Your journey begins with VIP meet-and-greet service upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, ensuring a swift and seamless welcome. After check-in at your luxury hotel, embark on a curated Kigali city tour, where you’ll explore the vibrant capital’s art galleries, chic boutiques, and historic sites.
A moving visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial provides a poignant introduction to Rwanda’s past and present, while stops at Kimironko Market and contemporary art centers give you a glimpse of the city’s dynamic spirit. Return to your hotel to unwind by the pool, schedule a massage, or sip a cocktail at sunset before enjoying a gourmet welcome dinner.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Kigali to Akagera National Park – Afternoon Game Drive
After a leisurely breakfast, depart by luxury 4×4 (or optional helicopter transfer) to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the Big Five. As you enter the park, the landscape shifts to open plains, acacia woodlands, and shimmering lakes.
Arrive at your luxury lodge in time for lunch and settle into your suite overlooking the park or Lake Ihema. Later, set out on your first game drive, led by an expert guide. Keep an eye out for elephants, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and elusive predators such as lions and leopards. Return in the golden light of sunset for dinner under the stars, with sounds of the wild surrounding you.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Rhino Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Boat Cruise
Wake before dawn for a sunrise game drive when wildlife is at its most active. You may spot large herds of antelope grazing, predators returning from the night’s hunt, and colorful birdlife beginning their day. Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast followed by leisure time perhaps at the pool or spa.
In the afternoon, enjoy a private boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a rich variety of aquatic birds, including African fish eagles and papyrus gonoleks. End the day with a scenic sundowner on the savannah, toasting the beauty of Akagera with a chilled drink in hand before a fireside dinner.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Rhino Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Scenic Drive or Helicopter Flight
After breakfast, bid farewell to Akagera and either drive or take an optional helicopter flight to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda’s northwest. The scenic journey winds past rolling hills, terraced farmland, and charming villages an enchanting glimpse into Rwanda’s heartland.
Upon arrival at your luxury lodge near the park, enjoy a gourmet lunch and settle into your suite with volcano views. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge, enjoying a forest-inspired spa treatment, or taking a guided nature walk. An optional cultural visit to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village offers an immersive encounter with Rwandan traditions, music, and dance. Dine privately under the stars or in your lodge’s elegant restaurant, preparing for the unforgettable day ahead.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking Experience – Afternoon Leisure and Forest Spa
Today is the crown jewel of your Rwandan journey: a gorilla trekking expedition into the misty slopes of the Virunga Mountains. After a detailed briefing, your guide and tracker will lead you on a hike through dense bamboo forest in search of your assigned gorilla family. Once located, you’ll spend up to an hour observing these gentle giants watching silverbacks protect their group, juveniles tumble in play, and mothers cradle their infants. It’s a profoundly emotional and humbling experience, one that lingers long after you leave the forest.
Return to your lodge for a celebratory lunch and a relaxing afternoon. Treat yourself to a forest therapy session or spa treatment, unwind by the fireplace, or journal your once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Your final dinner is a multi-course affair, accompanied by fine wine and heartfelt toasts.
Accommodation: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: Return to Kigali – Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast surrounded by volcanic vistas before beginning your return journey to Kigali either by road (approximately 2.5 hours) or optional private helicopter transfer for a scenic finale.
Depending on your flight schedule, spend the afternoon browsing Kigali’s best artisan boutiques. You may opt for a private day room at a luxury hotel, allowing you to refresh and relax before your international departure. A private transfer ensures timely and seamless service to the airport.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 6 Days Luxury Rwanda Wildlife and Gorilla Tour.
The 6 Days Luxury Rwanda Wildlife and Gorilla Tour cost includes;
- 1 Gorilla 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.