6-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Big Five Safari

Your 6-day Rwanda safari begins upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, where your private guide welcomes you with a traditional Rwandan greeting. After settling into your luxury hotel, embark on a guided city tour visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial — a powerful and moving tribute to Rwanda's history — followed by the vibrant Kimironko Market and the colorful Nyamirambo neighborhood. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Rwandan cuisine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city lights.

After breakfast, depart for the stunning Volcanoes National Park, a 2.5-hour scenic drive through terraced hills and rural villages. Stop at the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn about mountain gorilla conservation. Upon arrival at your eco-lodge, enjoy a leisurely afternoon and visit the Gorilla Guardians Village — a cultural experience where former gorilla poachers share traditional dance, fire-making, and royal rituals. This immersive encounter offers deep insight into Rwandan culture and the positive impact of conservation tourism.

The highlight of your 6-day Rwanda safari awaits. After an early briefing at the park headquarters, your expert ranger guides you deep into the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. Treks range from 1 to 6 hours depending on the family's location, and porters are available to assist. Upon finding the gorillas, you'll spend a magical one-hour observing these gentle giants up close — a truly life-changing wildlife experience. In the afternoon, return to the lodge for a relaxing massage or an optional community walk.

Begin the day with an exhilarating golden monkey trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park. These playful primates swing through bamboo forests and offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Afterward, drive southeast through the stunning Rwandan countryside to Akagera National Park — a 3.5-hour scenic transfer passing coffee plantations and rolling hills. Arrive at your luxury tented camp in time for sunset over the savannah, followed by a gourmet dinner under the stars.

Spend the full day exploring Akagera National Park — Rwanda's only Big Five destination. Morning and afternoon game drives reveal elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and over 480 bird species. Enjoy a boat safari on Lake Ihema where you'll spot hippos, crocodiles, and fish eagles. Your expert guide will share fascinating insights into Akagera's remarkable conservation success story, having reintroduced lions and rhinos after decades of absence.

After a final morning game drive, depart Akagera and drive to the shores of Lake Kivu — one of Africa's Great Lakes and Rwanda's most scenic destinations. Enjoy a relaxing boat safari past fishing villages and lush green islands, followed by a farewell lunch overlooking the water. In the afternoon, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of mountain gorillas, Big Five wildlife, and Rwanda's warm hospitality. - Professional English-speaking safari guide - Private 4x4 safari vehicle with fuel throughout - Mountain gorilla trekking permit (worth $1,500 per person) - Golden monkey trekking permit - Akagera National Park game drive fees and boat safari - Lake Kivu boat safari experience - Bottled drinking water during all activities - All government taxes, park fees, and tourism levies - 24/7 emergency support from our local team Answer: Absolutely. Every element of this Rwanda safari can be tailored to your interests, budget, and schedule. Popular add-ons include chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, canopy walks, and Lake Kivu beach extensions. Q8: What should I expect from Akagera National Park? Answer: Akagera is Rwanda's only Big Five destination, home to lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. The park offers classic savannah game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, and over 480 bird species — a perfect complement to gorilla trekking. Q9: Is Rwanda safe for American and European travelers? Answer: Yes, Rwanda is consistently ranked among Africa's safest destinations. Kigali is clean, well-organized, and English is widely spoken. Our private guides accompany you throughout the entire journey. Q10: How far in advance should I book gorilla permits? Answer: We recommend booking at least 6 to 12 months in advance, especially during peak dry seasons. Gorilla permits are limited to 96 per day in Volcanoes National Park and sell out quickly.